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Political Connections and Firm Value: Evidence from the Regression Discontinuity Design of Close Gubernatorial Elections

Author

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  • Nguyen, Bang Dang
  • Do, Quoc-Anh
  • Lee, Yen-Teik

Abstract

Using the regression discontinuity design of close gubernatorial elections in the U.S., we identify a significant and positive impact of the social networks of corporate directors and politicians on firm value. Firms connected to elected governors increase their value by 3.89%. Political connections are more valuable for firms connected to winning challengers, for smaller and financially dependent firms, in more corrupt states, in states of connected firms? headquarters and operations, and in closer, smaller, and active networks. Post-election, firms connected to the winner receive significantly more state procurement contracts and invest more than do firms connected to the loser.

Suggested Citation

  • Nguyen, Bang Dang & Do, Quoc-Anh & Lee, Yen-Teik, 2015. "Political Connections and Firm Value: Evidence from the Regression Discontinuity Design of Close Gubernatorial Elections," CEPR Discussion Papers 10526, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:10526
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Close gubernatorial election; Corruption; Firm value; Political connection; Procurement; Regression discontinuity design; Social Networks;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • D73 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Bureaucracy; Administrative Processes in Public Organizations; Corruption
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • G38 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • H57 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Procurement

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