A Comparison of FX Exposure Estimates with Different Control Variables

Abstract

We compare the FX exposure estimates of four empirical models that differ only in the choice of control variable. We use a large sample of U.S. equities (19,100) over a long time span (1980-2011). We find a much higher percentage of statistically significant FX exposure estimates with a bond return control variable than with a broad equity index. We also find that the FX exposure estimates with no control variable are close to those for the bond return control variable, and the estimates with Fama-French factor control variables are close to those with the equity index.

Keywords: Foreign exchange, currency, full FX exposure, partial FX exposure, FX cash flow exposure

JEL Classification: F23, G15