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Human capital cost and investment policy

Author

Listed:
  • Shuangshuang Ji
  • Tao‐Hsien Dolly King
  • Xinxin Li

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the link between human capital cost and investment policy. We find a significantly positive relationship between investment risk and the cost of human capital measured by average employee pay, especially when employees have strong bargaining power. We further investigate various channels through which investment risk influences human capital cost and find strong empirical support that these channels are important drivers. Our results suggest that a higher human capital cost associated with an increase in investment risk discourages firms from making valuable but risky investments in the future, leading to a potential problem of underinvestment.

Suggested Citation

  • Shuangshuang Ji & Tao‐Hsien Dolly King & Xinxin Li, 2021. "Human capital cost and investment policy," Review of Financial Economics, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 39(3), pages 254-279, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:revfec:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:254-279
    DOI: 10.1002/rfe.1104
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. David C. Mauer, 2021. "Introduction to the special issue on labor and corporate finance," Review of Financial Economics, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 39(3), pages 229-231, July.

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