We uncover new return predictability in the cross-section of delta-hedged equity options. Expected returns of writing delta-hedged calls are negatively correlated with current stock price, firm profit margin and profitability, but positively correlated with firm cash holding, cash flow variance,...

We analyze mutual fund industry selectivity mdash; the performance of a fund's industry allocation relative to the market. We find that industry selection accounts for a full third of fund performance based on two-digit standard industrial classification (SIC) codes, with the remaining...

We investigate whether corporate bond returns are related to commonly used predictors of stock returns. Using a comprehensive sample of U.S. corporate bonds from 1973 to 2011, we find that size, equity momentum, lagged equity returns, profitability, and idiosyncratic volatility forecast bond...

In theoretical models, liquidity and order flow volatility are determined by the same exogenous parameters. Thus, the variability of order flow can at least partially proxy for the unobserved (true) liquidity. Levels of and shocks to order flow volatility are indeed positively and significantly...

We examine whether the recent regime of increased liquidity and trading activity is associated with attenuation of prominent equity return anomalies due to increased arbitrage. We find that the majority of the anomalies have attenuated and the average returns from a portfolio strategy based on...

Implementing seismic risk mitigation programmes for earthquake-prone unreinforced masonry buildings (URM) is critical to ensure public safety and community resilience in regions of moderate and high seismicity. In New Zealand, it is a mandatory requirement to strengthen earthquake-prone...

Following the recent financial crisis, a number of commentators have suggested that liquidity disappears in falling markets. It is when investors try to convert assets to cash that a lack of liquidity is felt most acutely. In other words, investor sales receive lower liquidity than investor...