We use a general Markov switching model to examine the relationships between returns over three different asset classes: financial assets (U.S. stocks and Treasury bonds), commodities (oil and gold) and real estate assets (U.S. Case-Shiller index). We confirm the existence of two distinct...

In this paper, we highlight the existence of multi-founder firms, which were founded by multiple individuals (with no family connections) who are still actively involved in the firm as directors and/or managers (e.g., Google and Yahoo). These firms provide a unique setting to determine whether...

Around the world, policy makers are mandating gender quotas for boards of publicly-traded firms. Since the benefits and costs of these quotas accrue to shareholders, it is important to see how they react to the appointment of female directors. Using data on mandatory announcements of new...

This paper tests whether and to what extent the value premium is induced by financial inflexibility risk. In this context, financial flexibility refers to the ability of a firm to alter investment expenditure to mitigate exogenous shocks, so as to generate a smooth dividend stream. Consistent...

This paper explores whether volatility linkages exist at the intra-daily frequency in the foreign exchange market, and whether market trading hours affect volatility transmission. To answer these questions, we apply the Fleming, Kirby and Ostdiek model (1998) to 21 currency pairs using hourly...

International studies suggest that directors with political connections provide significant benefits to shareholders. Yet, whether this is the case in the political and business environment in Australia is unknown. In this study, we examine the prevalence of former politicians as non-executive...