This dissertation is comprised of two essays in which I investigate the idea that cross-subsidization of poorly-performing units within conglomerates is a cause for the value loss from diversification. In the first essay, I document a significant curvilinear relation between the value of...

Using a sample of 249 firms that went public over 1975-1984, I provide evidence on how and why ownership and board structures evolve over the subsequent 16 years. I find that changes in ownership and board structures are related to lifecycle changes that alter the relative cost/benefit of...

The first essay tests alternative theories about the effect of asset liquidity on capital structure and debt capacity. Using data from a broad sample of U.S. public companies, I find that leverage is positively related to asset liquidity. The relation is stronger following negative shocks to...

This study examines the extent of managerial discipline and corporate restructuring in firms suffering substantial declines in industry-adjusted operating performance over the period 1985 to 1992. The sample period encompasses an active takeover period (1985-1988) and a less active takeover...