Value-Creation Through Spin-Offs : Australian Evidence

We examine announcement effects and the long-run stock performance associated with spin-offs for companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. The 3-day announcement effect is a significantly positive 2.93%. Contrary to previous studies, we find no differences between ex post completed and non-completed spin-off announcements. The abnormal returns do not seem to be related to factors found significant in previous studies, such as an increase in industrial or geographical focus, information asymmetry, and the amount of bank debt of the parent company. There is some evidence that Australian spin-offs are associated with a positive long-run excess stock performance for up to 24 months after the spin-off. This effect is mostly driven by focus-increasing spin-offs