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Journal of Corporate Finance Vol. 61 2020

Invisible hand and helping hand: Private placement of public equity in China

Gang Nathan Dong1; Ming Gu2; Hua He3

1 Columbia University · 2 Xiamen University · 3 Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business

Abstract

In this study of private placement of public equity (PEP) in China, we examine post-placement stock performance and the possible bases for regulatory approval for PEP applications. We find that firms receiving approvals for PEP issues are financially stronger than those rejected by regulatory authorities and experience significant positive long-term abnormal returns following the placements. These long-term abnormal returns are higher when controlling shareholders participate in the placements and when the capital raised is allocated to asset restructuring or M&As. The evidence supports the view that the government offers a “helping hand” by screening PEP applications and approving those with promising investments and capable investors. Investor overoptimism about investment opportunities at firms that issue equity privately is constrained because PEP participants can effectively monitor and discipline management and help improve investment efficiency over time.

DOI
10.1016/j.jcorpfin.2018.08.011
Volume
61
Pages
101400
Language
en
Sources
bibtex:phds-export.bib openalex crossref

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