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The effect of dividend smoothing on bond spreads: Evidence from Japan

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  • Aoki, Yasuharu

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of dividend smoothing on bond spreads, using data on Japanese bond-issuing firms. The regression results show that, although dividend smoothing is not systematically associated with bond spreads, it moderates the relationship between target payout ratios and bond spreads for firms facing serious conflicts of interest between shareholders and bondholders over dividends. Specifically, when the level of dividend smoothing is low, the relationship between target payout ratios and bond spreads is positive. However, when the level of dividend smoothing is high, target payout ratios are unrelated to bond spreads.

Suggested Citation

  • Aoki, Yasuharu, 2023. "The effect of dividend smoothing on bond spreads: Evidence from Japan," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 621-637.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:85:y:2023:i:c:p:621-637
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2023.02.018
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Payout; Dividend smoothing; Signaling; Wealth transfer; Bond spread;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G12 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Asset Pricing; Trading Volume; Bond Interest Rates
    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors
    • G35 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Payout Policy

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