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Greenness in the Eye of Bond Short Sellers

Author

Listed:
  • Jie Cao
  • Shuting Li
  • Xintong Zhan
  • Weiming Zhang
  • Linyu Zhou

Abstract

This paper examines how short sellers value “greenness” in trading corporate bonds. We document significantly higher shorting volumes for green bonds relative to conventional bonds issued by the same firm. We consider several potential explanations, including short‐sale constraints and lending market frictions, sources for future price declines, and demand pressure from investors. None of the above could explain the higher shorting volumes for green bonds, leaving an intriguing puzzle.

Suggested Citation

  • Jie Cao & Shuting Li & Xintong Zhan & Weiming Zhang & Linyu Zhou, 2026. "Greenness in the Eye of Bond Short Sellers," International Review of Finance, International Review of Finance Ltd., vol. 26(2), June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:irvfin:v:26:y:2026:i:2:n:e70077
    DOI: 10.1111/irfi.70077
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    References listed on IDEAS

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