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What Drives Corporate Savings

Author

Listed:
  • Nan Chen
  • Xavier Giroud
  • Ling Qin
  • Neng Wang

Abstract

We study the determinants of corporate cash holdings by extending the standard q theory of investment with financing frictions and productivity shocks. While existing models predict a low propensity to hold cash, we show that realistic cash holdings arise only when three ingredients are combined: 1.) costly external financing, 2.) persistent productivity shocks, and 3.) contemporaneous productivity shocks. With costly external financing, persistent productivity shocks generate predictable cash flows and investment opportunities, but yield little need for savings since the internally generated cash flows are aligned with the investment needs. Contemporaneous shocks make internally generated cash flows random, inducing firms to hold cash at levels consistent with those observed empirically.

Suggested Citation

  • Nan Chen & Xavier Giroud & Ling Qin & Neng Wang, 2026. "What Drives Corporate Savings," NBER Working Papers 34622, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:34622
    Note: AP CF
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C61 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Optimization Techniques; Programming Models; Dynamic Analysis
    • D92 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Intertemporal Firm Choice, Investment, Capacity, and Financing
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies
    • 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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