Institutional Ownership and Stock Liquidity: Evidence From an Emerging Market

Abstract

This research investigates whether institutional ownership contributes to enhancement of stock liquidity in emerging markets. The study examines data of listed companies on the Vietnamese stock market. Using a comprehensive data set for all stocks listed on Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE) and Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) from 2008 to 2017, the statistical findings consistently demonstrate that institutional ownership has a negative impact on stock liquidity. In other words, the empirical evidence supports the adverse selection hypothesis that the upward trend of institutional ownership could reduce stock liquidity because the institutional investors with superior and advantageous information could exacerbate informational asymmetry issues. By using a case study in Vietnam, this research makes an original contribution to the academic literature by examining the relationship between institutional investors and stock liquidity in emerging markets. In addition, this study offers policymakers, authorities, agencies, and managers some insightful recommendations and implications that will help to not only promote the active participations of professional institutions but also improve stock liquidity, fairness, and efficiency.