Using data from India, we show that shared caste identities between two firms' directors increase the likelihood that they enter a merger and acquisition (M&A) deal. Target and acquirer shareholders receive smaller gains in such deals relative to others. Negotiation outcomes and long-run firm...

We examine the relationship between firm performance and diversity among corporate directors, proxied by diversity along religion and caste, a deep-rooted institution that divides India's Hindu society into hundreds of communities. To identify directors' caste, we build the first data-driven...

We show that shared cultural identity with politicians can help entrepreneurs form new businesses, reducing entry costs, increasing aggregate TFP. Following closely contested Indian state elections during 2006-16, we find increased local firm entry by entrepreneurs belonging to the same cultural...

Motivation is an important determinant of performance. The motivation among academicians is important for development of human capital. The present study aims to understand how faculty performance can be improved by focusing on what motivates a faculty at different hierarchical positions. For...