The Viability of Momentum Investing in the Small-Cap V.S. the Large Cap Space

This research paper examines the viability of a momentum investing strategy in the small cap space, using Monte Carlo analysis on momentum-based large cap investment strategies as a basis for comparison. Dorsey Wright’s systematic investment approach combines point-and-figure charting with relative strength calculations to produce a momentum-based investment strategy. Edgeworth Capital Group of Ameriprise Financial implements Dorsey Wright’s momentum-based investment approach into household portfolios invested in the US large cap space. Edgeworth applies the S&P 100 to Dorsey Wright’s matrix, creating a portfolio composed of the top-performing stocks in the matrix. Like the other studies analyzed in this paper, Edgeworth’s “10-pack” strategy has significantly outperformed the market over the period June 2014 – November 2024. This study applied the same trading strategy, Monte Carlo analysis, and time period to the PACER Cash-Cow Small Cap 100 ETF, an ETF composed of the 100 companies in the Russell 2,000 with the highest free cash flow yield. Despite more volatility in the small cap space, the momentum-based strategy outperformed the Russell 2000 index. While the viability of momentum-based investment strategies was well-analyzed in the US large cap space, these findings demonstrate the effectiveness of momentum investing in the broader US stock market, regardless of market capitalization.