Trend in Cash Holdings. A Study of Industrial Firms in U.S.

Abstract

This master thesis examines the trend in cash holdings among industrial firms in the United States, building upon the research of Bates et al. (2009) by analyzing a more recent sample period from 1980 to 2020. The study utilizes regression analysis to investigate the relationship between firm characteristics and cash ratios, aiming to understand the factors driving changes in cash holdings. The findings of the study confirm that changes in known determinants play a significant role in the rise of cash holdings among industrial firms. Furthermore, the study uncovers evolving relationships between firm characteristics and cash holdings over time, indicating the influence of external factors.