Bias and misrepresentation revisited: Perspective on major equity indices

We analyze the characteristics of 22 leading equity indices and discuss common biases relative to their respective national equity markets. Findings demonstrate systematic risk-factor exposures on a universally consistent basis in form of a large-cap, low beta, growth and contrarian tilt. These systematic biases are also relevant given their knock-on effect on public changes in consumption due to a changes in net wealth, especially as more private investors are utilizing ETFs on the basis of these indices rather than delegated mandates in form of mutual or pension funds.