Asymmetric Effects of Exchange Rate and Its Relationship with Foreign Investments: A Case of Indian Stock Market

Abstract

Emerging markets, including India, are witnessing an influx of foreign capital. The article investigates the role of exchange rate which influences both the net foreign institutional investments (FIIs) and the stock markets, using monthly data, from January 2008 to May 2018. The effects of real effective exchange rate are studied through non-linear ARDL co-integration. The long-run relationship is found in all the three models constructed. The results highlight the nature of FII flows in relation to exchange rate asymmetry. Real rupee depreciation has a long-run effect on their debt flows. The ‘adjustment asymmetry effect’ of exchange rate is found for equity flows in the long run. The similar effect is observed for the Nifty 50 model. Due to high volatility, even positive stock returns do not attract equity FII flows. In the short run, rupee depreciation in real terms negatively influences Nifty returns. The S&P 500 returns explain FII flows indicating information asymmetry. These outcomes serve a vital input for key stakeholders such as potential FIIs, domestic traders, regulators and policymakers.