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Is the cash-returns relationship risk induced?

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  • Liu, Chenxi
  • Kang, Mengyao

Abstract

Whether there is a cash anomaly and what drives the cash–returns relationship are unclear. By constructing a cash risk factor, this study explores the cash–returns relationship and the mechanisms underlying it. We find that the cash factor is pervasive and captures co-movement in stock returns, indicating a significant cash–returns relationship. The factor loading cannot predict returns after controlling for the cash characteristic and has a negative relationship with the implied cost of capital. Also, the cash factor does not reflect future macroeconomic risk. These results are not consistent with rational capital asset pricing theories and cast doubts on the role of the risk explanation while supporting the role of the mispricing effect in the cash–returns relationship.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Chenxi & Kang, Mengyao, 2024. "Is the cash-returns relationship risk induced?," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 69(PA).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecofin:v:69:y:2024:i:pa:s1062940823001353
    DOI: 10.1016/j.najef.2023.102012
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Corporate cash holdings; Stock anomaly; Risk; Mispricing;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G12 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Asset Pricing; Trading Volume; Bond Interest Rates
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies

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