During a financial crisis, when markets most need liquidity and arbitrage tradings, hedge funds often reduce their exposures and positions. The paper explains this phenomenon in light of coordination risk. We argue that the fragile nature of capital structure of hedge funds, combined with low...

During a financial crisis, when investors are most in need of liquidity and accurate prices, hedge funds cut their arbitrage positions and hoard cash. The paper explains this phenomenon. We argue that the fragile nature of the capital structure of hedge funds, combined with low market liquidity,...