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Political uncertainty and household stock market participation

Author

Listed:
  • Agarwal, Vikas
  • Aslan, Hadiye
  • Huang, Lixin
  • Ren, Honglin
Abstract
Using micro-level panel data and a difference-in-differences identification strategy, we study the effect of political uncertainty on household stock market participation. We find that households significantly reduce their participation and reallocate funds to safer assets during periods of increased political uncertainty. The decline in participation is related to households' response to elevated asset risk and their incentive to hedge increased labor income risk. In situations where uncertainty remains high after elections, pre-election reduction in participation is only partially reversed, reflecting a prolonged distortion in household stock investments, which can have implications for households, firms, and the economy in general.

Suggested Citation

  • Agarwal, Vikas & Aslan, Hadiye & Huang, Lixin & Ren, Honglin, 2021. "Political uncertainty and household stock market participation," CFR Working Papers 21-06, University of Cologne, Centre for Financial Research (CFR).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:cfrwps:2106
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    References listed on IDEAS

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