Research Paper:
Environmental Uncertainty and Idiosyncratic Risk: The Dual Role of Diversification Strategy
Fengtao Hua*, Rui Tang**, and Xin Leng*
*School of Economics and Management, Anhui Normal University
No.189 Jiuhua South Road, Yijiang District, Anhui 241002, China
**School of College of Business Administration, Huaqiao University
No.269 Chenghua North Road, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian 362021, China
In response to escalating environmental uncertainty, corporate executives typically adjust their business strategy between diversification and refocusing. This study examines the effect of environmental uncertainty on idiosyncratic risk, as well as the moderating impact of diversification on this relationship. Utilizing a sample of companies listed on the Chinese stock market from 2005 to 2019, the results suggest that a significant positive correlation exists between uncertainty and idiosyncratic risk. As environmental uncertainty escalates, corporate managers increasingly opt for diversification before eventually refocusing their business strategy. Furthermore, while moderate diversification can mitigate the impact of uncertainty on idiosyncratic risk, excessive diversification intensifies this correlation. This research holds considerable significance for understanding the influence mechanism of idiosyncratic risk and ensuring the stability of the capital market.
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