G18 - General Financial Markets: Government Policy and RegulationReturn

To test the diversification benefits of REIT sub-groups formed based on dividend payout ratios, we forecast ex-ante variance-covariance matrices using a rolling window correlation and a DCC model. Regression-based mean-variance spanning tests, mean-variance efficient frontiers, and a minimum variance portfolio allocation approach using ex-ante optimization frameworks are considered. A major finding of the current study is the dividend payout ratios of REITs affect REIT market diversification benefits. Apart from extending stock market index investors’ investment universe and providing more efficient (higher profitability and/or lower risk) portfolios, REITs offer diversification benefits directly related to dividend policies. A unique level of diversification is attained by classifying REITs based on their dividend payout ratios. As well, these REIT sub-groups are capable of left-shifting the efficient frontier of a market portfolio with either of the REIT sub-groups.

Corporate Governance has acquired a significant place in the national economies globally. Quality of governance impacts the business confidence index and resource mobilizations in the global marketplace. In various countries there is a conventional dominance of promoters or majority shareholders on the board of companies which implicates various propensities of risks and forms of risk cultures, making the problem of governance typical and critical for the regulators. Our paper examines the risk behaviour of firms in context of CG practices and creates distinct bundles of companies with specific risk cultures. Using a sample of 10 years’ panel data of 84 companies listed on the National Stock Exchange in India (NSE) for selected risk and CG variables, we measure the influence of CG measures on the risk propensity and behaviour and based on combinations of selected CG practices formulated the risk bundles. Based on the derived bundles of risk behaviour, regulators and policymakers can make informed decisions.