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Margin trading, short selling, and information asymmetry

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  • Xu, Minggang
  • Zhang, Xueyong
  • Zhang, Yeqing

Abstract

We investigate the impact of margin trading and short selling (MTSS) on information asymmetry using data from a unique Chinese pilot program that permits MTSS for a specific list of stocks. We establish a theoretical framework indicating that MTSS enhances the pricing system’s informativeness, leading to reduced information asymmetry. Motivated by this theoretical framework, we design a quasi-experiment to analyze data from 2013 to 2016. We find that indeed MTSS weakens information asymmetry. Furthermore, the reduction of information asymmetry can be attributed to both margin trading and short selling.

Suggested Citation

  • Xu, Minggang & Zhang, Xueyong & Zhang, Yeqing, 2024. "Margin trading, short selling, and information asymmetry," Journal of Financial Markets, Elsevier, vol. 70(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finmar:v:70:y:2024:i:c:s1386418124000442
    DOI: 10.1016/j.finmar.2024.100926
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Margin trading; Short selling; Information asymmetry; Pricing system;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G10 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading

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