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The effect of stock liquidity on corporate cash holdings: The real investment motive

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  • Hyun Joong Im
  • Barry Oliver
  • Heungju Park

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between stock liquidity and corporate cash holdings and explores a new economic mechanism driving this relationship. Using a regression discontinuity design approach based on the annual reconstitution of the Russell 1000/2000 indices, we find that stock liquidity has a positive causal effect on corporate cash holdings. This effect is more pronounced for firms with more investment opportunities. These results suggest that enhanced stock liquidity increases corporate cash holdings by expanding the set of investment opportunities. Our evidence supports the real investment motive over the repurchase motive.

Suggested Citation

  • Hyun Joong Im & Barry Oliver & Heungju Park, 2022. "The effect of stock liquidity on corporate cash holdings: The real investment motive," International Review of Finance, International Review of Finance Ltd., vol. 22(3), pages 580-596, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:irvfin:v:22:y:2022:i:3:p:580-596
    DOI: 10.1111/irfi.12377
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    3. Lin Lei & Han Zhou & Dingding Wang, 2024. "Marketization and corporate cash holdings: Role of financial constraint alleviation," International Review of Finance, International Review of Finance Ltd., vol. 24(4), pages 743-771, December.

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