A Theory of Zombie Lending

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Finance
Year: 2021
Volume: 76
Issue: 4
Pages: 1813-1867

Authors (2)

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

An entrepreneur borrows from a relationship bank or the market. The bank has a higher cost of capital but produces private information over time. While the entrepreneur accumulates reputation as the lending relationship continues, asymmetric information is also developed between the bank/entrepreneur and the market. In this setting, zombie lending is inevitable: Once the entrepreneur becomes sufficiently reputable, the bank will roll over loans even after learning bad news, for the prospect of future market financing. Zombie lending is mitigated when the entrepreneur faces financial constraints. Finally, the bank stops producing information too early if information production is costly.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:jfinan:v:76:y:2021:i:4:p:1813-1867
Journal Field
Finance
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29