Answer:
Based on an examination of the risk and return data for a variety of alternative investments during the period of 1926-2011, the correct statement is:
Small-company stocks, rather than long-term corporate bonds, exhibit both the greater return and the greater standard deviation.
Explanation:
Small-company stocks are known to show the highest volatility of returns among these five assets. The reason is that investors in small company stocks always expect higher returns to pay for the higher risks involved in such unproven investments, unlike investing in other assets. In addition, small-company stocks are known to pose higher risks given their known failure to deliver on their promised performance and returns.