This chapter examines investments of sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) in publicly traded firms, focusing on how these investments impact firms, and the potential channels through which their effects materialize. Using data that includes SWF holdings in 8,000 firms in 58 countries, we find that SWF investments have a positive effect on firm valuations and operating performance. The results are not driven by any particular SWF and are stronger for foreign SWF holdings. Additionally, we find evidence that after a large investment by SWFs, firms have better monitoring, expand their international operations, and are able to raise more capital as a consequence of the SWF investment. In terms of determinants of their holdings, we find that SWFs prefer large and profitable firms that enjoy significant external visibility. Additionally, they tend not to invest heavily in firms in high-tech industries or those operating in areas involving intensive research and development.
Option implied cost of equity and its properties
