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Dancing between threats and conflicts: How Chinese energy companies invest amidst global geopolitical risks

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  • Huang, Zhuo
  • Ye, Chengfang
  • Lai, Fujun
  • Li, Yunzhong
  • Li, Xiaofan

Abstract

Utilizing Chinese A-share listed energy companies from 2002 to 2021, we investigate the relationship between global geopolitical risks (GPR) and corporate investment through panel fixed effects and attempt to elucidate its channel. The main findings are as follows: Different types of GPR have varied impacts on corporate investment; global geopolitical acts (GPRA) significantly promote investment in Chinese energy companies, while global geopolitical threats (GPRT) substantially inhibit it. Channel analysis indicates that the capital hedging effect can explain the impact of GPR on the investment of Chinese energy companies. Moreover, the interactions between GPR and factors such as companies' commercial credit capability, valuation, operational risk, and degree of internationalization are statistically significant. These factors interact with GPRA and GPRT, jointly affecting the investment of Chinese energy companies. After employing a series of robustness tests, our results remain valid. Our research deepens a better understanding of how geopolitical risks influence the investment decisions of energy companies.

Suggested Citation

  • Huang, Zhuo & Ye, Chengfang & Lai, Fujun & Li, Yunzhong & Li, Xiaofan, 2024. "Dancing between threats and conflicts: How Chinese energy companies invest amidst global geopolitical risks," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 139(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:139:y:2024:i:c:s0140988324006157
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2024.107907
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