João Paulo Vieito, Christian Espinosa, Wing-Keung Wong, Munkh-Ulzii Batmunkh, Enkhbayar Choijil and Mustafa Hussien
It has been argued in the literature that structural changes in the financial markets, such as integration, have the potential to cause herding behavior or correlated behavioral…
Abstract
Purpose
It has been argued in the literature that structural changes in the financial markets, such as integration, have the potential to cause herding behavior or correlated behavioral patterns in traders. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether there is any financial herding behavior in the Latin American Integrated Market (MILA), a transnational stock market composed of Chile, Peru, Colombia and Mexico stock exchanges and whether there is any ARCH or GARCH effect in the herding behavior models.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses the modified return dispersion approach on daily index return data. The sample period is from January 03, 2002 to May 07, 2019. The data are obtained from the MILA database. To count time-varying volatilities in herding models, the authors run ARCH family regression with GARCH (1,1) settings. Hwang and Salmon (2004) model is used as a robustness test.
Findings
The authors found strong herding behavior under the general market conditions and moderate and partial herding behavior under some specified markets circumstances, such as bull and bear markets and high-low volatility states. Moreover, the pre-MILA period exhibits more herding behavior than the post-MILA period. The empirical results show that most of the ARCH and GARCH effects are statistically significant, implying that the past information of stock returns and market volatility significantly affect the volatility of following periods, which can also explain the formation of herding tendency among investors. Finally, the results of the robustness tests (Hwang and Salmon, 2004) confirm herding in all periods, except full sample period for Mexico and post-MILA period for Mexico and Colombia.
Research limitations/implications
This study investigates the herding behavior in the MILA market in terms of market return, volatility and timing. A limitation of the paper is that the authors have not included other factors on the formation of herding behavior, such as macroeconomic factors, effects of regional or international markets and policy influences. The authors will explore the issue in the extension of the paper.
Practical implications
As MILA is the first virtual integration of stock exchanges without merging, the study provides useful findings and draws good inferences of herding behavior in the MILA market in terms of market return, volatility and timing which are useful for academics, investors and policymakers in their investment and decision makings.
Social implications
The paper provides useful findings and draws good inferences of herding behavior in the MILA market in terms of market return, volatility and timing which are not only useful in practical implications, but also in social implications.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the herding literature by examining four different hypotheses in respect of the unique case of transnational stock exchange without fusions or corporate mergers, where each market maintains its independence and regulatory autonomy. The authors also contribute to the literature by including both ARCH and GARCH effects in the herding behavioral models along the Hwang and Salmon (2004) approach.
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M. Alejandra Inostroza and Christian Espinosa-Méndez
In this paper the authors study how sociodemographic characteristics and personality traits of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) impact financial performance in small and medium…
Abstract
Purpose
In this paper the authors study how sociodemographic characteristics and personality traits of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) impact financial performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in an emerging economy such as Chile.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors applied a questionnaire to 185 Chilean SME CEOs during 2017 concerning sociodemographic characteristics (gender, age, experience and marital status), personality traits (extraversion, responsibility, openness to experience, agreeableness, and neuroticism) and firm characteristics.
Findings
The authors find that some sociodemographic characteristics (gender and age) significantly impact SME performance. The authors find no significant connection between personality traits and firm performance.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the business literature by investigating how sociodemographic variables and personality traits of the CEO are related to SME financial performance; by providing new evidence on the relationship between CEO characteristics and firm performance, mostly centered on developed economies, in the context of an emerging economy; and allowing for a better understanding of how CEO decisions impact firm performance.
Objetivo
Este artículo estudia cómo las características sociodemográficas y los rasgos de personalidad del gerente general (CEO) afectan el desempeño financiero de Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas (PYMEs) en una economía emergente como Chile.
Diseño/metodología/enfoque
Se aplicó un cuestionario a 185 gerentes generales de PYMEs chilenas en 2017 acerca de sus características sociodemográficas (género, edad, experiencia, estado civil), rasgos de personalidad (extraversión, responsabilidad, apertura a la experiencia, amabilidad y neuroticismo) y características de la empresa.
Resultados
Se encontró que ciertas características sociodemográficas (género, edad) afectan significativamente el desempeño de las PYMEs. No se encontraron asociaciones significativas entre rasgos de personalidad y desempeño de la empresa.
Originalidad/valor
Este trabajo contribuye a la literatura de negocios al investigar cómo las variables sociodemográficas y los rasgos de personalidad del gerente general se relacionan con el desempeño financiero de las PYMEs; al entregar nueva evidencia sobre la relación entre características del gerente general y el desempeño de la empresa, mayoritariamente centrada en economías desarrolladas, en el contexto de una economía emergente; y al permitir una mejor comprensión de cómo las decisiones del gerente general afectan el desempeño de las empresas.
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Itsaso Barrainkua and Marcela Espinosa-Pike
This study explores auditors’ professional attitudes and behaviours. It tests the influence of public interest commitment, independence enforcement beliefs and organisational…
Abstract
This study explores auditors’ professional attitudes and behaviours. It tests the influence of public interest commitment, independence enforcement beliefs and organisational ethical culture on auditors’ acceptance of and engagement in practices that compromise their objectivity. The study is based on survey responses of 122 Spanish auditors. To analyse the combined effect of the variables under study, variance-based structural equation modelling (partial least squares, PLS) was employed. The results suggest that the regulatory efforts to improve auditors’ behaviours by enforcing independence rules have been internalised by auditors. The results also reinforce the need to instil the societal responsibilities of professional auditors, since auditors’ public interest commitment is related to their ethical decision making. Furthermore, this study reveals that firms’ ethical cultures influence auditors’ commitment to the public interest, as well as their ethical decision making. The study raises practical implications for auditing professionals, regulators and audit firms. Understanding auditors’ beliefs and behavioural patterns is critical to proposing mechanisms that enhance their ethical behaviours, which could ultimately enhance audit quality. The chapter contributes to the field by analysing the combined effect of the regulatory framework and organisational context on auditors’ professional values and behaviours.
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David Díaz Jiménez, José Luis López Ruiz, Jesús González Lama and Ángeles Verdejo Espinosa
The main objective of the study is to address the lack of sustainability assessments of smart connected health systems in the academic literature by presenting an assessment model…
Abstract
Purpose
The main objective of the study is to address the lack of sustainability assessments of smart connected health systems in the academic literature by presenting an assessment model to determine the alignment of these systems with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proposed in the 2030 Agenda.
Design/methodology/approach
An evaluation model based on decision analysis is proposed that includes three phases: alignment framework, information gathering and assessment. This model measures the alignment of the connected health system with each of the 17 SDGs, identifying the goals and criteria associated with each SDG that the system achieves to satisfy.
Findings
The analysis reveals that the system has achieved more than 24% of the targets among the 17 SDGs. In addition, it identifies four sustainability challenges that the system potentially addresses in relation to the SDGs, providing valuable guidance for researchers and practitioners interested in sustainable health technology development.
Practical implications
The study's results have significant implications for policymakers and stakeholders in the health and technology sectors.
Originality/value
The originality of this study lies in its comprehensive approach to assessing the sustainability of connected health systems in the context of the SDGs, filling an important gap in the existing literature.
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Empirical studies show substantial variation across immigrants in the rate and direction of assimilation along various dimensions (e.g., cross-ethnic contact, language, identity)…
Abstract
Purpose
Empirical studies show substantial variation across immigrants in the rate and direction of assimilation along various dimensions (e.g., cross-ethnic contact, language, identity). To explain this variation, past research has focused on identifying exogenous factors, such as discrimination, human capital, and settlement intention. In this chapter we argue that variation in immigrant outcomes emerges endogenously through positive interaction effects between dimensions of assimilation. We propose a new assimilation model in which processes of social influence and selection into congruent social environments give rise to multiple long-term equilibria. In this model, migrants who are already assimilated along many dimensions tend to also adapt along other dimensions, while less assimilated migrants become more strongly embedded in their ethnic group.
Design/methodology/approach
To test the assimilation model, we derive a number of hypotheses, which we evaluate using trend analysis and dynamic panel regression on data from the Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada.
Findings
The data mostly confirm the hypotheses, providing overall support for the assimilation model.
Research implications
Our theory and findings suggest that immigrants would follow divergent assimilation trajectories even in the absence of a priori population heterogeneity in external factors.
Social implications
The positive interaction effects between cultural and structural dimensions of assimilation suggest that mixed policies that promote integration while seeking to prevent loss of identity go against the natural tendency for cultural and structural assimilation to go hand in hand.
Originality/value
The present chapter proposes a novel model of immigrant assimilation and an empirical test.
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Carlos Maquieira, Orlando Gahona-Flores and Christian Espinosa-Méndez
This study focuses on how China EPU may impact copper-firms stock returns and also how China EPU mediates between stock returns and copper prices returns.
Abstract
Purpose
This study focuses on how China EPU may impact copper-firms stock returns and also how China EPU mediates between stock returns and copper prices returns.
Design/methodology/approach
The sample consists of 44 copper firms from January 2011 to March 2022. The study also considers a subsample of 29 net-exporters countries. Panel data methodology is used, allowing to control for unobservable heterogeneity and endogeneity problems. The equations are estimated through a dynamic panel using the generalized methods of moments (GMM).
Findings
China EPU has a negative and statistically significant relationship with stock returns. Copper price returns are positively associated with stock returns. This research also considers two scenarios: high and low levels of China EPU. For high levels of China EPU states it is reported a negative relationship between stock returns and China EPU and copper price returns show a positive relationship with stock returns.
Research limitations/implications
There is need to explore other metals for what China exhibits a high demand and observe if China EPU and Global EPU have similar impacts on stock returns. It will be useful to identify main firm's consumers of copper and these other metals to explore the relationship between EPU and stock returns.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that analyzes China EPU index and its impact on both copper-firms stocks returns and on changes in copper prices. This is done using all public copper firms worldwide.
Propósito
Este estudio se enfoca en como la incertidumbre en política económica de China (llamado China EPU) puede impactar en los retornos de las acciones de empresas del sector del cobre y como China EPU media entre los retornos de las acciones y los retornos de los precios del cobre.
Diseño/metodología/enfoque
La muestral consiste en 44 firmas de cobre desde enero 2011 a marzo 2022. El estudio también considera una sub muestra de 29 países que son exportadores netos de cobre. Se utiliza la metodología de datos de panel, permitiendo controlar por lo inobservable y por problemas de endogeneidad. Las ecuaciones son estimadas a través de panel dinámico usando el método generalizado de los momentos (G.M.M.).
Resultados
EPU de China tiene una relación negativa y estadísticamente significativa con los retornos accionarios. Los retornos de los precios del cobre están positivamente asociados con los retornos accionarios. La investigación también considera dos posibles escenarios: altos y bajos niveles de EPU. Para el estado de altos niveles se reporta una relación negativa entre los retornos accionarios y el EPU de China, además los retornos de los precios del cobre muestran una relación positiva con los retornos accionarios.
Limitaciones de la Investigación/Implicancias
Se requiere explorar otros metales para los cuales China sea un importante demandante a nivel internacional y observar si el EPU de China y el EPU Global tienen similares impactos en los retornos accionarios. A su vez sería útil identificar las principales firmas consumidoras de cobres y estos otros metales de tal forma de chequear la relación entre EPU y retornos accionarios.
Originalidad/valor
En nuestro mejor conocimiento, este es el primer artículo que analiza el índice EPU de China y como este impacta tanto los retornos accionarios de las empresas de cobre como los cambios de precios del cobre. Esto es hecho usando una muestral que incluye todas las empresas de cobre que se transan en bolsa a nivel internacional.
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Christian Espinosa-Méndez and Alejandra Inostroza Correa
The purpose of this paper is to investigate how chief executive officer (CEO) gender relates to financial performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in a Latin American…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate how chief executive officer (CEO) gender relates to financial performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in a Latin American emerging economy like Chile.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors apply a questionnaire on a sample of 188 SMEs in Chile in 2017. The authors apply multiple ordinary least squares regression models to test the effects of CEO gender on SME performance using the industry location indicators to account for unobserved heterogeneity in the sample. As a robustness test the authors use hierarchical regression analysis.
Findings
The authors find a positive relationship between the presence of female CEOs and firm performance. Then, when probing whether the sociodemographic characteristics of the CEO are related to firm performance or moderate the gender-performance relationship, the authors do not find statistically significant evidence that these types of characteristics affect the performance of SMEs.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study is the first to investigate the relationship between CEO gender and financial performance of SMEs in an emerging Latin American economy. The study contributes to the general literature by reporting comparable evidence with studies in developed economies.
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Wing-Keung Wong, Zhihui Lv, Christian Espinosa and João Paulo Vieito
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the intricate relationship between crude oil spot and futures prices, focusing on both cointegration…
Abstract
Purpose
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the intricate relationship between crude oil spot and futures prices, focusing on both cointegration and market efficiency during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the beginning of the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Using daily West Texas Intermediate data from January 2020 to March 2024, like Cunado and Pérez de Gracia (2003), the authors use advanced statistical methods to identify structural breaks and assess cointegration levels. Linear and nonlinear Granger causality tests are used to reveal underlying dynamics.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper uses the Lagrange Multiplier test by Arai and Kurozumi (2007) to check for cointegration with various shifts in crude oil spot and futures markets. The two-step procedure by Kejriwal and Perron (2010) and Kejriwal et al. (2022) is then applied to assess partial parameter stability in cointegration models. Efficiency is examined using both bivariate and trivariate models based on non-arbitrage and expectations hypotheses. Finally, causality is analyzed with the vector error correction model for linear Granger causality, and the tests by Bai et al. (2018) and Diks and Panchenko (2006) for nonlinear causality.
Findings
The analysis reveals that futures prices generally lead spot prices through both linear and nonlinear causality during certain periods, while only linear causality is present in others. This inconsistency suggests fluctuating market efficiency and potential arbitrage opportunities. Structural breaks indicate that the equilibrium between spot and futures prices adjusts in response to significant events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war. The study identifies specific periods, particularly between January 2020 and March 2024, where both linear and nonlinear forecasting between futures and spot oil prices are effective, highlighting the dynamic nature of their relationship.
Research limitations/implications
Despite extensive efforts, pinpointing the exact break date for COVID-19 remains challenging due to limitations in the data set and methodology. Additionally, the analysis of the Russia–Ukraine conflict is still ongoing. These challenges highlight the complexity of addressing structural breaks linked to unprecedented events.
Practical implications
The findings offer valuable insights for both academia and industry practitioners. The study reveals potential arbitrage opportunities stemming from inconsistent market efficiency and fluctuating causality between futures and spot prices, allowing traders to optimize their trades and timing. It also enhances risk management by identifying when linear and nonlinear causality is most effective. Policymakers can use these insights to evaluate market stability, especially during major disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts, guiding regulatory decisions. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance for investors to adjust their strategies in response to structural breaks and evolving market conditions.
Social implications
This study’s social implications are diverse, extending beyond finance and academia. It influences economic stability by revealing inefficiencies and arbitrage opportunities in crude oil markets, aiding better resource allocation. Enhanced transparency benefits stakeholders, promoting fair market practices and consumer protection. Policymakers can refine regulations based on identified structural breaks, ensuring market stability. The study indirectly impacts environmental discussions by examining crude oil’s link to global energy consumption. Financially, it guides investment strategies, influencing resource distribution and the broader economy. Additionally, its educational contribution stimulates academic discourse, fostering growth in energy economics and financial market knowledge, shaping future research.
Originality/value
The originality and value of this paper lie in its comprehensive examination of the dynamic relationship between futures and spot oil prices, particularly through both linear and nonlinear causality across different periods. By identifying and analyzing periods of both linear and nonlinear causality, the study uncovers fluctuating market efficiency and potential arbitrage opportunities that are not typically addressed in conventional analyses. Additionally, the paper’s focus on the impact of significant global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war, on the equilibrium between spot and futures prices offers a novel perspective on how structural breaks influence market dynamics. This nuanced understanding enhances both theoretical and practical knowledge, offering valuable insights for traders, investors and policymakers to navigate and respond to evolving market conditions.
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Pledging collateral to secure loans is a prominent feature in financing contracts around the world. Existing theories disagree on why borrowers pledge collateral. It is even more…
Abstract
Pledging collateral to secure loans is a prominent feature in financing contracts around the world. Existing theories disagree on why borrowers pledge collateral. It is even more challenging to understand why in some countries collateral coverage exceeds, for example, 300% of the value of a loan. This study looks at the association between collateral coverage and country-level governance and various institutional proxies. It investigates the economic implications of steep collateral coverage and sketches policy options to lower ex-ante asymmetric information and ex-post agency problems. Within this framework, should a lender collect the debt forcibly on default and liquidated assets fetch prices below outstanding loan values, the lender’s loss is covered through credit insurance, which would significantly reduce the need for steep collateral coverage. This proposal may increase level of private credit, investment and growth; particularly, in a number of developing countries where collateral spread is the main inhibitor of finance.