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Time variation in market efficiency: Empirical evidence from B3 sectoral indices (2016-2024)

Published: Mar 6, 2026
Volume: 24
Keywords: Market efficiency Long memory Fractional integration Volatility B3

Authors

Eduardo Ataide dos Santos
Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo
Edson Zambon Monte
Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo

Abstract

This study investigates the time-varying degree of (in)efficiency in the Brazilian stock market by analyzing long-range dependence in the returns and volatilities of seven B3 sectoral indices from January 2016 to July 2024. The semiparametric Geweke and Porter-Hudak (GPH) estimator of the fractional integration parameter is employed, combined with rolling window procedures and Bai-Perron structural break tests. The results show that returns predominantly exhibit short memory behavior, consistent with the weak form of the Efficient Market Hypothesis. In contrast, volatilities display temporary long memory during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a gradual reduction in persistence. The findings are consistent with the Fractal Market Hypothesis and the Adaptive Market Hypothesis, suggesting that systemic shocks temporarily affect market efficiency dynamics without generating permanent structural changes.


How to cite

Eduardo Ataide dos Santos, Edson Zambon Monte. Time variation in market efficiency: Empirical evidence from B3 sectoral indices (2016-2024). Brazilian Review of Finance, v. 24, n. 1, 2026. p. e202603. DOI: 10.12660/rbfin.v24n1.2026.97549.


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