Cross-listing and the Value of Corporate Cash Holdings : Evidence from China

Abstract

This paper examines how cross-listing of Chinese Aand Hong Kong H-shares (AH cross-listed) affects the value of corporate cash holdings. Using a sample of AH cross-listed firms, we find that the value of cash holdings is higher for cross-listed than for non-cross-listed firms. The results remain robust to alternative measures of change in cash and consideration of state-owned enterprises. The AH cross-listing valuation premium for cash holdings decreases after a governance reform in the Chinese stock market. Our results suggest that AH cross-listing enhances firms’ transparency and disclosure, and thereby the value of cash holdings relative to non-cross-listed companies.