EFFECT OF NEW INFORMATION FROM RIGHTS ISSUE ANNOUNCEMENT ON SHARE PRICES OF FIRM'S LISTED ON THE NAIROBI SECURITY EXCHANGE

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of new information from rights issue announcement on share prices of firm's listed on the Nairobi Security Exchange.Methodology: The study was carried out using descriptive research design. The target population consisted all companies listed on the NSE, and had previously done a rights issue. Convenient sampling technique was used to identify firms that had rights issue in the period under study.  Secondary data was collected using a schedule developed by the researcher. Data analysis was done using events study methodology and regression modelling.Results: Based on the findings the study found that mean share prices before and after the rights issue announcement was statistically insignificant as indicated by the t-test (t= -0.435 and p-value = 0.663).Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Based on the findings the study recommends that further studies to be done on the impact of bonus issues, IPOs, and the global economic crisis (2008-2009) on stock returns of companies listed at the NSE.