We find that the level of short interest in a firm's stock significantly predicts future seasoned
equity offers (SEOs). The probability of an SEO announcement increases by 34% (decreases
by 49%) for firms in the top (bottom) quintile of short interest. We identify a causal impact
of short interest on SEO issuance using a novel instrument for short interest based on future
litigation filings in close geographical proximity to hedge fund centers. Our findings suggest
that corporate decisions can be triggered by the aggregate trading activity of sophisticated
outside investors.
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