It is generally believed there is an equilibrium problem associated with contingent capital (CC) with a stock price trigger. In this paper I show that the problem instead reflects an internal inconsistency in the specification of the boundary conditions for conversion. A unique equilibrium will...

Canonical intermediary asset pricing models assume a representative intermediary with an SDF linear in its leverage. Yet the leverage of broker-dealers is procyclical whereas the leverage of banking holding companies is countercyclical. I propose an empirically testable heterogeneous...

This paper explores the financial stability implications of mark-to-market accounting, in particular its tendency to amplify financial cycles and the "reach for yield". Market prices play a dual role. Not only do they serve as a signal of the underlying fundamentals and the actions taken by...

We introduce FDIF, a measure of Fed communication surprise based on the text of FOMC statements. FDIF measures the difference between text-implied and actual values of key market variables. Positive FDIF of countercyclical variables (e.g., credit spreads) is associated with negative...

Equity-linked notes are flexible financial products that give investors favorable capital treatment. The payoff of a note depends on the performance of a basket of equities or indices averaged over a certain period, but is bounced below by a guaranteed amount. This article presents a new model...

We construct a two-factor pricing model for contingent convertible bonds having a conversion to equity loss absorption mechanism, triggered by the event of the issuer’s Tier 1 ratio falling below a pre-determined level. The two stochastic factors are the issuer’s equity price and Tier 1...

This study looks at the time-varying nature of systematic risk in the Greater China equity markets. The Shanghai and Shenzhen markets both have a low average systematic risk when measured against the world market. The short outbursts in systematic risk for these two markets seem to be directly...

We derive a nonparametric test for constant (continuous) beta over a fixed interval of time. Continuous beta is defined as the ratio of the continuous covariation between an asset and observable risk factor (e.g., the market return) and the continuous variation of the latter. Our test is based...