Finance
Articles tagged with Finance
Brexit did not just shake Britain - it sent financial shockwaves across Europe
Profit alone is a poor measure of success, study shows companies can look efficient while harming the planet
A new study from the University of Surrey shows that firms celebrated for strong financial performance may actually be inefficient when environmental impact is included. The research developed a new way to measure sustainable corporate efficiency, combining traditional financial metrics with environmental data.
Rich more likely to use AI study finds, as experts warn these burgeoning technologies are increasing social inequality
A recent study reveals that individuals with higher education or income are more aware of and use AI tools, exacerbating social inequalities. The researchers recommend increasing engagement with AI-related topics through outreach campaigns, educational programs, and community workshops to reduce this new digital divide.
Policies intended to protect trade secrets may limit late-career wages
A study by Penn State researchers found that trade secret policies restrict labor mobility, leading to early-career workers receiving higher starting wages but stunted wage growth later. Firms instead shifted toward greater use of capital, replacing human labor with automation equipment.
Nature loss brings catastrophic risks – new report
A new report highlights the catastrophic risks of nature loss on food systems, economies and societies. Chronic pressures like soil degradation and water scarcity are already reducing crop yields and increasing food prices.
A Canadian Journey examines the life and lessons of L.R. “Red” Wilson
A new biography by Dimitry Anastakis explores the life and career of L.R. Red Wilson, a pioneering Canadian business leader who made significant contributions to higher education, business, and public service. The book showcases Mr. Wilson's remarkable journey, including his executive leadership positions and philanthropic efforts.
Companies disclose more on cybersecurity – but markets remain indifferent
A study by the University of Vaasa and Aalto University finds that mandatory cybersecurity disclosure in the US has increased internal documentation and made cyber risks more visible to senior management, but not affected investor behavior. Companies produced new content describing their cybersecurity governance structures, suggesting ...
Distance traveled among out-of-state Chicago abortion fund callers
The study found that out-of-state Chicago Abortion Fund callers traveled more than 3 times the distance to Illinois after Dobbs compared to before. These callers were also more likely to have private or no insurance, be from rural areas, and receive hospital-based care during their pregnancy.
New study suggests climate finance from developed countries may help reduce resource-related conflict risk in developing countries
A new empirical study found a direct link between climate finance and lower conflict risk in developing countries. Climate finance that alleviates water stress and boosts renewable energy projects contributes to peace and stability, with greater impact at higher levels of funding.
Incidence, mortality, and federal research funding by cancer type in the US
A new study found that cancer types with high lethality receive lower federal research funding, prioritizing these cancers could help direct resources to diseases with greatest potential to reduce suffering. Additionally, certain cancers have a disproportionate impact on underserved populations and quality-of-life burden.
Binghamton University graduate programs draw national attention in new ranking
Binghamton University has seen significant improvements in its graduate school rankings, with nearly three dozen programs earning national recognition. The university's Systems Science and Industrial Engineering program has been named the #31 Industrial and Systems Engineering graduate program in the US.
AI measures business complexity
A new AI model helps measure business complexity by breaking it down into 29 categories, including debt, equity, and financial structures. The tool can identify areas of complexity that require closer analysis for investors and provide insights for standard setters and regulators to simplify reporting standards.
United Nations University and East China Normal University launch the UNU Hub for AI-Finance in Shanghai
The UNU Hub for AI-Finance at East China Normal University's Shanghai AI-Finance School aims to leverage AI to boost sustainable economic development and financial inclusion. The Hub will prioritize innovation-driven research, global talent training, and international policy advocacy to address the Global South's financial challenges.
Advertising payments to news websites that publish health misinformation
Between 2021 and 2024, government organizations accounted for around one-tenth of the estimated $336 million spent on advertising to news websites publishing health misinformation. Pharmaceutical companies also made notable contributions.
HKU hosts Hong Kong Climate Week 2026 opens with focus on “from mitigation to adaptation”
Hong Kong Climate Week 2026 aims to harness the city's strengths as an international financial centre and global connectivity hub. The event focuses on bridging global consensus and local implementation, highlighting the need for adaptation and innovation in addressing climate change.
New research reveals high option trading fees and barriers to competition
A new study reveals that option trading fees are substantially higher than stock trades, creating a conflict of interest for brokers. The complex options market also features structural advantages for dominant firms, leading to higher costs for individual investors.
Overconfident CEOs are less likely to delegate responsibility – particularly when it may help the most
A study found that overconfident CEOs are 10-15% less likely to delegate responsibilities, especially in complex transactions and when acquiring companies in unfamiliar industries. This suggests that executives who are overly confident may struggle with delegating tasks effectively.
Move finances to shift energy
A collaborative team of researchers from Kyoto University analyzed the net-zero transition in Southeast Asia, finding that a flexible grid paradigm allows vertically integrated utilities to accept natural gas as flexible energy. The study also highlights the need for synchronized changes in energy systems and financial systems to achie...
Too much transparency can hurt financial markets
Researchers found that less transparency in bond markets can lead to better economic outcomes, as it imposes discipline on players and makes institutions more selective about bonds they buy. This is in contrast to the 2008 global financial crisis, which was triggered by too much public information and looser credit.
New Study: Cybersecurity isn’t just a safeguard — it can help businesses perform better
A new study by Binghamton University School of Management reveals that businesses can improve their performance when they openly discuss and address cybersecurity issues. The research found a positive correlation between cybersecurity readiness and firm performance, suggesting that proactive measures can lead to better outcomes.
More banks mean higher costs for borrowers
Research from the University of Texas at Austin reveals that increased bank competition can result in higher interest rates for borrowers. With more banks competing for loans, each additional bank is associated with a 7 basis point increase in interest rates. This is due to the 'winner's curse' effect, where lenders become risk-averse ...
Can ESG ratings be trusted? New study examines the fight against greenwashing
A new study finds that ESG rating providers play a crucial role in building and repairing trust in sustainable finance. By comparing EU and UK regulatory approaches, researchers show that 'enhanced self-regulation' combining public oversight with industry-led rules can support a credible market-led green transition.
IPO pay gap hiding in plain sight: Study reveals hidden cost of ‘cheap stock’
A new study from the University of Notre Dame examines the prevalence, determinants and consequences of cheap stock options. The research found that firms granting more options, having larger public offerings and venture capital backing tend to have greater gaps between IPO prices and exercise prices.
Collective risk resonance in Chinese stock sectors uncovered through higher-order network analysis
Researchers use RHOSTS method to construct dynamic networks capturing risk co-movement among 24 Chinese stock sectors from 2007-2024. This approach reveals how multi-sector co-movements can accelerate contagion and create hidden vulnerabilities.
High-frequency investor sentiment from online forums enhances stock return predictions
Researchers found that intraday high-frequency sentiment, especially from non-trading periods, can capture nuanced market dynamics and improve daily return forecasts. This study demonstrates the potential of using online forum data to enhance stock return predictions in a highly sentiment-driven market.
Rushing a major strategy announcement can be a mistake for new CEOs
A new study from the University of Notre Dame suggests that new CEOs should balance swift strategic action with caution to avoid analyst scrutiny. Analysts generally prefer a moderate pace, with longer delays seen as a risk, especially in turbulent situations.
Leading Danish universities join forces to boost innovation capacity
A partnership between University of Copenhagen and Danish Technical University aims to improve Europe's resilience and competitiveness by boosting innovation. The initiative seeks to develop the innovation ecosystem, drive urban development, and attract talent, companies, and investors.
Multifaceted effects of inward foreign direct investment on new venture creation
A recent study by researchers from Waseda University and Zhejiang University found that inward foreign direct investment has distinct nonlinear, spillover, and contingent effects on new venture creation. The study analyzed China's enterprise credit information data between 2013 and 2023 and demonstrated robust support for its hypotheses.
History offers warning on dollar and deficits
A new study warns that the U.S. government's fiscal capacity depends on the dominance of the U.S. dollar, and potential losses for bondholders could be significant if another currency replaces it. Historically, countries with a strong currency have experienced economic downturns when their dominance wanes.
Synthetic asset-backed stablecoins outperform as global equity hedges
This study reveals synthetic asset-backed stablecoins as strong hedges for 21 of 30 international stock indices, while fiat-backed stablecoins show limited risk-mitigation capabilities. The findings underscore the importance of understanding stablecoin design and its impact on financial resilience.
Danish chemist's invention could make counterfeiting a thing of the past
A new digital and legally binding fingerprint developed at the University of Copenhagen makes products impossible to counterfeit. Royal Copenhagen is among the first brands in the world to use this solution, resulting in immediate transparency across their distribution chain.
Family background strongly linked to financial misconduct by corporate executives
A study conducted at the University of Oulu found that senior corporate executives are more likely to commit financial crimes if their parents have previously been charged and convicted. The researchers analyzed nearly 76,000 CEOs and board members and found a strong association between parental convictions and executive misconduct.
CFRI special issue call for papers: New Frontiers in Sustainable Finance
The journal is seeking original research on sustainable finance, including ESG considerations and climate risk, to capture recent advances in the field. Contributions will inform professional practice and policy development at both national and international levels.
Examining private equity’s role in fertility care
Researchers found that over half of IVF cycles in the US were performed at clinics affiliated with private equity firms, sparking concerns about the impact on quality and accessibility. The study's authors emphasize the need for further research to understand the benefits and risks of this business model.
The suspension of the foreign corrupt practices act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases
The suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases. Companies that had been subject to investigations or sanctions under the FCPA collectively gained around $39 billion, with individual companies recording increases in market capitalization of billions of dollars.
Potential changes in US homelessness by ending federal support for housing first programs
Ending federal support for housing first programs will lead to a significant increase in US homelessness, projecting a 5% rise within a year. This trend is part of an already increasing homeless population, resulting from the cessation of discretionary federal funding.
Real estate investment trust (REIT) acquisition associated with hospital closure and bankruptcy
A study found that hospitals sold to REITs were more than five times as likely to close or file for bankruptcy compared to similar hospitals. The researchers analyzed nearly 20 years of data and found no immediate improvements in finances or quality, but long-term harms, including increased risk of closure or bankruptcy.
Does CPU impact systemic risk contributions of Chinese sectors? Evidence from mixed frequency methods with asymmetric tail long memory
A new study finds that China's Climate Policy Uncertainty (CPU) amplifies risk contribution volatility in Energy and Materials sectors during moderate market declines, but reduces it in Consumer Staples and Finance. However, during extreme market crashes, CPU increases risk volatility across all sectors except Healthcare.
Collective risk resonance in Chinese stock sectors uncovered through higher-order network analysis
This study uses a novel approach to capture group-level risk synchronisation in Chinese stock sectors, revealing how multi-sector co-movements can accelerate contagion and create systemic threats. By identifying crisis-specific resonance clusters and tracking resilience in real-time, the research provides a more precise tool for monito...
Behavioral health spending spikes to 40% of all children’s health expenditures, nearly doubling in a decade
Pediatric behavioral health spending surged to $41.8 billion in 2022, representing 40% of total children's health expenditures, and families faced mounting out-of-pocket costs, increasing at more than twice the rate of other medical expenses.
Expenditures for pediatric behavioral health care over time and estimated family financial burden
Behavioral health spending in the US increased significantly between 2017 and 2022, reaching 40% of child health spending. This shift is associated with high family financial burdens due to expanded access to services and supports through insurance coverage and clinician availability.
Sustainability-focused companies benefit more from audit transparency
Research shows that companies with strong environmental, social, and governance track records perform better after adopting rigorous auditing standards. Investors view ESG practices as a signal of corporate quality, amplifying the benefits of transparent auditing.
When socially responsible investing backfires
A new study by University of Rochester finance professors argues that socially responsible investors' capital can inadvertently create incentives for firms to postpone green reforms. The researchers suggest public commitments and binding principles of responsible investing could overcome this issue, making impact investing more effective.
Taxing homes in an economic boom and subsidising them in a crash could prevent the next housing crisis
Researchers argue that taxing housing purchases during economic booms and providing temporary subsidies on housing during recessions could help prevent the next housing crisis. The study found that this approach can lift house prices exactly when the system is at greatest risk, preventing fire sales and severe price collapses.
Investor attention on individual stocks can predict marketwide performance
Research from the University of Notre Dame finds that retail investors' buzz can lead to lower future returns, while institutional investors' attention acts as an early signal for higher returns. The study also reveals a bottom-up approach measuring individual stock attention works better than top-down approaches.
Crypto hacks: Price drops often outweigh direct losses
A new study by the Complexity Science Hub reveals that crypto hacks can have a significant impact on market prices, with investors bearing the brunt of the losses. The study found that in 12 cases, affected tokens experienced subsequent price crashes, resulting in $1.3 billion indirect losses.
Greener cryptocurrencies are less volatile as they react less to energy price movements
A new study by Davide Sandretto finds that greener cryptocurrencies, such as those using Proof-of-Stake protocols, respond more steadily to market movements. This reduces volatility and is a win-win for the environment and investors, who face fewer risks from energy price shocks.
Home buyers are overpaying mortgage fees. Shopping around can help.
A new study by the University of Florida finds that most US home buyers are overpaying mortgage fees, with average costs ranging from 1-3% of the loan. Shopping around can help consumers save an average of $32 in fees and more than $1,000 in interest per loan.
Why top firms paradoxically fire good workers
Top firms paradoxically fire good workers to maintain reputation and boost profits. Workers accept lower pay temporarily to signal elite status, while those who stay earn higher fees directly from clients. The firm's strategic underpayment of better workers increases profits by creating a stable equilibrium.
Clinical trials affected by research grant terminations at the National Institutes of Health
Approximately 1 in 30 clinical trials were disrupted due to grant funding terminations, disproportionately affecting infectious disease and prevention studies. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable financial support to ensure trial operations and participant safety.
Experts find £90K “sweet spot” for crowdfunding success
A new study by University of East Anglia researchers identified key factors contributing to successful crowdfunding campaigns on Seedrs. Setting a £90K target, having around 19 team members, and using specific phrases in campaign pitches all helped attract investors.
Concealed deals drive up 401(k) fees
A new study reveals that many 401(k) plans include mutual funds with higher fees and lower performance due to revenue-sharing deals with plan administrators. Employees may unknowingly invest in these funds, leading to lost returns over time.
UNF joins Paysafe, L Marks and City of Jax to launch JAX Hub driving region’s fintech future
JAX Hub connects startups, scaleups, and UNF's graduate talent to co-create solutions for the next generation of financial services. The program provides industry expertise, real-world testing opportunities, mentorship, and access to a growing innovation ecosystem.
Poverty, food insecurity, and housing instability among US health care workers
Significant financial hardship affects US healthcare workers, with over 1 in 4 direct care/support workers experiencing food insecurity. The study highlights worsening trends in hardship, exceeding previous reports.
Households’ hunt for better savings rates can deepen recessions, finds new study
When economies falter, households become more vigilant in searching for high-interest savings accounts, which can exacerbate recessions. This collective behavior amplifies economic fluctuations by 14%, pulling more money out of the economy when it's already struggling.
Shedding light on the impact of the Bank of Japan’s exchange-traded fund purchase program
A recent study by Waseda University researchers reveals that the Bank of Japan's large-scale ETF purchases have a significant impact on both the equity market and securities lending market, making short selling easier. This suggests that the stock market functions efficiently to some extent, mitigating distortions in stock prices.
When Washington tried to starve industries of loans—and failed
A study found that Operation Choke Point, launched in 2013, failed to restrict credit for controversial industries. Targeted banks reduced lending to small businesses, but large companies continued to secure credit and even increased their borrowing. Firms responded by switching to non-targeted banks, rendering the operation ineffective.
Where financial advisors grew up influences their business ethics
A new study found that financial advisors' childhood environment significantly predicts their core code of ethics, influencing their professional behavior. The research suggests that cultural norms from their hometown play a significant role in shaping their ethical foundations. This finding highlights the importance of considering the...
How the fraud protection system is wrongly brandishing thousands of innocent banking customers
Expert research reveals hundreds of thousands of unknowing banking customers could be incorrectly labelled with fraud markers, causing significant stress and hardship. The book highlights the devastating toll of ordinary people being wrongly linked to fraud, often due to third-party errors or fake businesses.