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Diversification discount and investor sentiment

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  • Harper, Joel T.
  • Iyer, Subramanian Rama
  • Nejadmalayeri, Ali

Abstract

While previous research has linked the diversification discount to suboptimal managerial decisions, recent empirical work and methods have shown these relationships are not as strong. A rational learning framework indicates the diversification discount is related to economic activity. Building on this framework, we test and find support for the hypothesis that investor sentiment explains the diversification discount. Investor sentiment favors riskier firms when sentiment is high, thereby increasing returns and relative valuations. As a result, diversified firms imputed value based on these multiples leads to a larger diversification discount and reverses when sentiment falls.

Suggested Citation

  • Harper, Joel T. & Iyer, Subramanian Rama & Nejadmalayeri, Ali, 2017. "Diversification discount and investor sentiment," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 42(C), pages 218-236.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecofin:v:42:y:2017:i:c:p:218-236
    DOI: 10.1016/j.najef.2017.07.011
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    5. Bhuiyan, Rubaiyat Ahsan & Rahman, Maya Puspa & Saiti, Buerhan & Ghani, Gairuzazmi Bin Mat, 2019. "Does the Malaysian Sovereign sukuk market offer portfolio diversification opportunities for global fixed-income investors? Evidence from wavelet coherence and multivariate-GARCH analyses," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 47(C), pages 675-687.

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