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Automation and the Displacement of Labor by Capital Asset Pricing Theory and Empirical Evidence

Resource type
Author/contributor
Title
Automation and the Displacement of Labor by Capital Asset Pricing Theory and Empirical Evidence
Abstract
I examine the asset pricing implications of technological innovations that allow capital to displace labor: automation. I develop a theory in which firms with displaceable labor are negatively exposed to such technology shocks. In the model, firms optimally adopt technology to gain competitive advantage but in equilibrium competition erodes profits and decreases firm value. Empirically, I find that firms with high share of displaceable labor have negative exposure to technology shocks. A long-short portfolio sorted on this variable mimics macroeconomic measures of technology shocks. Negatively exposed firms earn a 4% annual return premium consistent with displacement risk from technological progress.
Publication
Journal of Financial Economics
Volume
147
Issue
S0304405X2200229X
Pages
271-296
Date
2023
Citation
Knesl, J. (2023). Automation and the Displacement of Labor by Capital Asset Pricing Theory and Empirical Evidence. Journal of Financial Economics, 147, 271–296.
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