Residual momentum in Japan

We demonstrate that the residual momentum strategy, which is constructed to hedge out the risk exposure to the Fama-French (1993) factors, is profitable in Japan for short-term holding periods ranging from three to 12 months. Residual momentum profits over long-term holding periods ranging from two to five years do not reverse, unlike traditional price momentum strategies observed in the U.S. market. The findings in both short- and long-term holding periods are attributed to investor underreaction. A comprehensive index of limited attention supports investor underreaction as an underlying cause of momentum in Japan.