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Innovation links, information diffusion, and return predictability: Evidence from China

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  • Zeng, Kailin
  • Tang, Ting
  • Liu, Fangbiao
  • Atta Mills, Ebenezer Fiifi Emire

Abstract

Based on the activities of patent citation in China, a novel type of cross-firm innovation links is generated to investigate the gradual diffusion of information along the innovation chain via tests of cross-sectional return predictability. Various signals are created to represent the value of the information contained in the innovation links; these signals are demonstrated to have robust cross-predictability for stock returns in both the cross-sectional regression model and portfolio strategies. The effect of predictability is found to be stronger for stocks with high institutional ownership and analyst coverage. Considering the minimum number of steps required to establish the cross-firm linkage, innovation links are further partitioned to represent different proximity of the linked firms. It is then found that information diffuses faster across closely-linked firms than across distantly-linked firms. Sophisticated investors are found to be able to properly process the relevant information and benefit from innovation links.

Suggested Citation

  • Zeng, Kailin & Tang, Ting & Liu, Fangbiao & Atta Mills, Ebenezer Fiifi Emire, 2022. "Innovation links, information diffusion, and return predictability: Evidence from China," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 83(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:finana:v:83:y:2022:i:c:s1057521922001867
    DOI: 10.1016/j.irfa.2022.102225
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Innovation link; Patent citation; Information diffusion; Return predictability;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G12 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Asset Pricing; Trading Volume; Bond Interest Rates
    • E44 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Financial Markets and the Macroeconomy
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty

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