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Leverage and risk-taking in a dynamic model

Author

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  • Berg, Tobias
  • Heider, Florian

Abstract

This paper examines the dynamic relationship between firm leverage and risktaking. We embed the traditional agency problem of asset substitution within a multi-period model, revealing a U-shaped relationship between leverage and risktaking, evident in data from both the U.S. and Europe. Firms with medium leverage avoid risk to preserve the option of issuing safe debt in the future. This option is valuable because safe debt does not incur the expected cost of bankruptcy, anticipated by debt-holders due to future risk-taking incentives. Our model offers new insights on the interaction between companies' debt financing and their risk profiles.

Suggested Citation

  • Berg, Tobias & Heider, Florian, 2024. "Leverage and risk-taking in a dynamic model," SAFE Working Paper Series 423, Leibniz Institute for Financial Research SAFE.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:safewp:300645
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    leverage; risk-taking incentives; dynamic model;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G3 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill
    • G33 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Bankruptcy; Liquidation

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