Trading Volume, Volatility and Return Dynamics: Individual and Cross-Market Analysis

Abstract:     
In this paper we study the dynamic relationship between trading volume, volatility, and stock returns at the international stock markets. First, we examine the role of volume and volatility in the individual stock market dynamics using a sample of ten major developed stock markets. Next, we extend our analysis to a multiple market framework, based on a large sample of cross-listed firms. Our analysis is based on both semi-nonparametric (Flexible Fourier Form) and parametric techniques. Our major findings are as follows. First, we find no evidence of the trading volume affecting the serial correlation of stock market returns, as predicted by Campbell et.al (1993) and Wang (1994). Second, the stock market volatility has a negative and statistically significant impact on the serial correlation of the stock market returns, consistent with the positive feedback trading model of Sentana and Wadhwani (1992). Third, the lagged trading volume is positively related to the stock market volatility, supporting the information flow theory. Fourth, we find the trading volume to have both an economically and statistically significant impact on the price discovery process and the co-movement between the international stock markets. Overall, these findings suggest the importance of the trading volume as an information variable.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 36

Keywords: trading volume, volatility, return reversal, price discovery

JEL Classification: G12, G14

working papers series