Open source information, investor attention, and asset pricing

Abstract

In this paper, we advocate the search frequency of stock name in Baidu Index as a novel and direct proxy for investor attention. Firstly, empirical results show that the quantified investor attention is a desired explanatory variable for abnormal return even trading volume is considered. Secondly, the Main Board is more efficient than the ChiNext and the SME Board in the view of informational efficiency. Thirdly, investor attention exhibits strong contemporary relationship with abnormal return. Fourthly, open source information can enhance the speed of information dissemination and make the market efficient.