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Information search methods and financial decisions

Author

Listed:
  • Yosef Bonaparte
  • Frank J. Fabozzi
  • David Koslowsky

Abstract

We investigate whether financial decisions by households are influenced by information search method. The analysis examines Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) data containing more than 20 information search methods used by households for saving and investment decisions. We classify investors into categories (informal, professional, and comprehensive) based on information search method. We use the 2016 SCF data for our main results; we also use the 1998 SCF to examine the effects of geography and changes in information search over time. We find that information search method influences financial decisions about stock market participation, trading, diversification, risk‐taking, and home bias.

Suggested Citation

  • Yosef Bonaparte & Frank J. Fabozzi & David Koslowsky, 2021. "Information search methods and financial decisions," Review of Financial Economics, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 39(4), pages 482-499, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:revfec:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:482-499
    DOI: 10.1002/rfe.1125
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    References listed on IDEAS

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