Solving the Puzzle of Relative Importance of Dividends and Retained Earnings in Stock Valuation: A Case of Karachi Stock Exchange

Abstract

Despite the growing debate on the stock price valuation, it has become a complex puzzle. Various theories, models and explanations have been provided to solve this confusing riddle. This study contributes to this debate by determining the relative importance of stock dividends and retained earnings regarding stock price valuation in Karachi Stock Exchange. Data for the analysis of this study were collected from the 66 nonfinancial companies that were included in KSE-100 index for a period from 2007 to 2010. This study found the evidence that dividends are more important variable than the retained earning regarding the explanatory power of stock prices in Karachi Stock Exchange. Practical implications are also provided in the study.