Does performance-sensitive debt mitigate debt overhang?

Alain Bensoussan, Benoît Chevalier-Roignant, Alejandro Rivera*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

Abstract

We model the expansion decision of a levered firm. Straight debt distorts both timing and scaling: the firm invests less and later than its all-equity financed counterpart. The inclusion of performance sensitivity in the debt contract mitigates such distortions. Moreover, performance sensitivity is consistent with firm value maximization within a standard trade-off theory of capital structure. As a result, our model rationalizes the widespread use of performance sensitive debt (PSD), especially amongst fast growth firms.
Original languageEnglish
Article number104203
JournalJournal of Economic Dynamics and Control
Volume131
Online published4 Aug 2021
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2021

Bibliographical note

Full text of this publication does not contain sufficient affiliation information. With consent from the author(s) concerned, the Research Unit(s) information for this record is based on the existing academic department affiliation of the author(s).

Research Keywords

  • Capital structure
  • Debt overhang
  • Performance-sensitive Debt
  • Real options

RGC Funding Information

  • RGC-funded

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