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Statistical properties and stability of ratings in a subset of US firms

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  • Alexander B. Matthies

Abstract

Standard explanatory variables that determine credit ratings do not achieve significant effects in a sample of 100 US non-financial firms in an ordered probit panel estimation. Sample size and selection as well as the distribution of explanatory variables across rating classes may be the cause this problem. Furthermore, we find evidence to suggest that variable coefficients vary over rating classes when analysed with an unordered loogit model. The sample reproduces well-established macroeconomic effects of credit ratings found by Blume et al. (1998) and highlights the influence of the rating agencies’ through-the-cycle approach on rating transitions.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander B. Matthies, 2013. "Statistical properties and stability of ratings in a subset of US firms," SFB 649 Discussion Papers SFB649DP2013-002, Sonderforschungsbereich 649, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:hum:wpaper:sfb649dp2013-002
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Marshall E. Blume & Felix Lim & A. Craig Mackinlay, 1998. "The Declining Credit Quality of U.S. Corporate Debt: Myth or Reality?," Journal of Finance, American Finance Association, vol. 53(4), pages 1389-1413, August.
    5. Gonzalez, F. & Haas, F. & Johannes, R. & Persson, M. & Toledo, L. & Violi, R. & Zins, C. & Wieland, M., 2004. "Market dynamics associated with credit ratings: a literature review," Financial Stability Review, Banque de France, issue 4, pages 53-76, June.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Rating agency; Business cycle; Through-the-cycle rating methodology; Method comparison;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General
    • G24 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Investment Banking; Venture Capital; Brokerage
    • G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill

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