IIMB Management Review

Journal of Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

Operational Currency Mismatch and Firm Level Performance: Evidence from India

Prof. Anubha Dhasmana
2012
Working Paper No
388
Body

This paper looks at the determinants and effects of exchange rate exposure using data on 500 Indian firms over the period 1995-2011. Unlike the existing papers in the literature, we use a measure of 'operational' currency exposure based on foreign currency revenues and costs of firms. Among other factors, exchange rate volatility appears as a significant determinant of average firm level exposure with the direction of relationship supporting the presence of 'Moral Hazard' in firm's risk taking behavior. Further large 'operational' exposure is associated with significantly lower output growth, profitability and capital expenditure during episodes of large currency depreciation at the firm level. Together this indicates that the policy makers must take into account the incentive effects of their intervention in foreign exchange markets.   

Key words
Operational Currency Exposure, Moral Hazard, Exchange Rate Volatility
WP_No._388.pdf (495.11 KB)

Operational Currency Mismatch and Firm Level Performance: Evidence from India

Author(s) Name: Prof. Anubha Dhasmana, 2012
Working Paper No : 388
Abstract:

This paper looks at the determinants and effects of exchange rate exposure using data on 500 Indian firms over the period 1995-2011. Unlike the existing papers in the literature, we use a measure of 'operational' currency exposure based on foreign currency revenues and costs of firms. Among other factors, exchange rate volatility appears as a significant determinant of average firm level exposure with the direction of relationship supporting the presence of 'Moral Hazard' in firm's risk taking behavior. Further large 'operational' exposure is associated with significantly lower output growth, profitability and capital expenditure during episodes of large currency depreciation at the firm level. Together this indicates that the policy makers must take into account the incentive effects of their intervention in foreign exchange markets.   

Keywords: Operational Currency Exposure, Moral Hazard, Exchange Rate Volatility
WP_No._388.pdf (495.11 KB)