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Examining climate risk attention in stock markets: insights from quantile-on-quantile regression

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  • Zhao, Lili
  • Lin, Yutong
  • Liu, Zhenhao
  • Yang, Guozheng

Abstract

Climate change has profound effects on society and the global economy. This study investigates the impact of climate risk attention (CRA) on China’s overall and sectoral stock markets by constructing a CRA index and applying the Quantile-on-Quantile regression approach. We find asymmetric and heterogeneous effects of CRA on the overall stock market, with the strongest positive effects concentrated in the upper quantiles. The results also reveal a saturation point beyond which further increases in CRA exert diminishing influence. At the sectoral level, high CRA is positively associated with non-distressed market states in Public Utilities, Information Technology, Optional Consumption, Materials, and Industrials. By contrast, its significant effects appear only during extremely prosperous conditions in Real Estate and Source Energy. Both low and high CRA are positively linked to upside volatility in the Medical Care and Daily Consumption sectors. The Financials sector responds mainly on the downside, with reduced CRA showing a positive association. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating climate risk considerations into financial strategies to support sustainable market development.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhao, Lili & Lin, Yutong & Liu, Zhenhao & Yang, Guozheng, 2026. "Examining climate risk attention in stock markets: insights from quantile-on-quantile regression," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 81(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecofin:v:81:y:2026:i:c:s1062940825001846
    DOI: 10.1016/j.najef.2025.102544
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