Emory University
Department of Economics
Working Papers
Title: Rational Speculators And Equity Volatility as a Measure of Ex Ante Risk
Number: 01-02
Author: Amir Kia
Issue Date: February 2001
Abstract: A macro-determinant model of stock return volatility using monthly data on Canadian and U.S. markets is estimated. If volatility is a measure of risk, one should verify whether the estimated volatility is a measure of future (ex ante) risk or realized (ex post) risk. When speculators are rational the volatility created by their activities can be a measure for ex ante risk. It is found that the growth of commodity price, which was ignored in this literature, is also a factor in the equity return volatility. Furthermore, 71% of the volatility of Canadian stock returns is explained by the behavior of rational speculators. 

Click on the paper title to download the paper and the figure.

You may view the paper in the following formats:

The paper is in PDF format. Click here to download Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Links to
    Economics Department Home Page
    Emory University Home Page