We document sizeable and surprising differences in investment behavior between stock market listed and privately held firms in the U.S. using a rich new data source on private firms. Listed firms invest substantially less and are less responsive to changes in investment opportunities compared to...

We evaluate differences in investment behavior between stock market listed and privately held firms in the U.S. using a rich new data source on private firms. Listed firms invest less and are less responsive to changes in investment opportunities compared to observably similar, matched private...

We document how gathering ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ information helps boards of directors to learn a CEO’s ability over time; test under what circumstances boards fire CEOs; and show that such interventions lead to improved firm performance. Our empirical design exploits detailed hard...

We analyze the determinants of buyout funds' investment decisions. We argue that when the supply of capital is lsquo;sticky' in the short run, the timing of funds' investment decisions, their risk-taking behavior, and their subsequent returns depend on changes in the demand for private equity,...

We analyze the determinants of buyout funds' investment decisions. We argue that when the supply of capital is lsquo;sticky' in the short run, the timing of funds' investment decisions, their risk-taking behavior, and their subsequent returns depend on changes in the demand for private equity,...

We analyze the determinants of buyout funds' investment decisions. We argue that when the supply of capital is lsquo;sticky' in the short run, the timing of funds' investment decisions, their risk-taking behavior, and their subsequent returns depend on changes in the demand for private equity,...

Shareholder agreements govern the relations among shareholders in privately-held companies, such as joint ventures or venture capital-backed firms. We provide an economic explanation for the use of put and call options, preemption rights, catch-up clauses, drag-along rights, demand rights,...

IPO initial returns reached astronomical levels during 1999-2000. We show that the regime shift in initial returns and other elements of pricing behavior can be at least partially accounted for by a variety of marked changes in pre-IPO ownership structure and insider selling behavior over...

Using a unique dataset of private equity funds over the last two decades, this paper analyzes the cash flow, return, and risk characteristics of private equity. Unlike previous studies, we have detailed cash flow data for each fund, rather than aggregate or accounting returns. We also know the...

Because sell-side analysts are dependent on institutional investors for performance ratings and trading commissions, we argue that analysts are less likely to succumb to investment banking or brokerage pressure in stocks highly visible to institutional investors. Examining a comprehensivesample...