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Stocks versus corporate bonds: A cross-sectional puzzle

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  • van Zundert, Jeroen
  • Driessen, Joost

Abstract

We study the cross-sectional relation between stock and corporate bond markets. By correcting credit spreads of corporate bonds for expected default losses and by using equity-bond elasticities, we obtain a firm’s expected bond-implied stock return, which we then compare to its realized stock return. We find, surprisingly, a strong negative cross-sectional relation between these expected and realized stock returns. We show that this effect is not simply a restatement of the distress risk puzzle or other well-known anomalies in stock and corporate bond markets. This negative cross-sectional relation is strongest for high-risk firms and for liquid stocks.

Suggested Citation

  • van Zundert, Jeroen & Driessen, Joost, 2022. "Stocks versus corporate bonds: A cross-sectional puzzle," Journal of Banking & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbfina:v:137:y:2022:i:c:s0378426622000474
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbankfin.2022.106447
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    JEL classification:

    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G12 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Asset Pricing; Trading Volume; Bond Interest Rates
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading

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