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Ambiguous investor sentiment

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  • Wagner, Moritz
  • Wei, Xiaopeng

Abstract

This study examines the interaction between investor sentiment, ambiguity, and asset pricing. While the existing literature highlights the importance of sentiment in times of higher uncertainty, our study further shows the nuanced distinction between ambiguity and standard uncertainty. We examine their effects on the relationship between sentiment and future stock market returns at the daily and monthly frequencies. Our analysis demonstrates that ambiguity weakens the predictive ability of sentiment on stock returns, whereas standard uncertainty increases it. We also present additional evidence suggesting that lower market participation during periods of high ambiguity is the likely driver of this effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Wagner, Moritz & Wei, Xiaopeng, 2024. "Ambiguous investor sentiment," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 67(PA).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:67:y:2024:i:pa:s1544612324008031
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2024.105773
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ambiguity; Investor sentiment; Knightian uncertainty; Return predictability;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G12 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Asset Pricing; Trading Volume; Bond Interest Rates
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading

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