Economic policy uncertainty and stock returns in China: the role of regulatory short-selling constraints

Abstract

We examine the association between economic policy uncertainty (EPU) and expected stock returns and how short-selling regulations in China moderate this relationship. Consistent with the overpricing effects literature, we find a negative EPU–return relationship before the introduction of margin trade and short-selling (MTSS) program in 2010. However, after implementation of MTSS, the relationship turned positive for stocks without short-selling constraints, reflecting investors’ demand for higher risk compensation. Using propensity score matching and difference-in-differences, we demonstrate that relaxation of short-selling constraints mitigates overpricing and generates positive uncertainty premium. Our findings highlight the importance of short selling in pricing of uncertainty and implications for policymakers and investors.