HOW DID CDS MARKETS IMPACT STOCK MARKETS? EVIDENCE FROM LATEST FINANCIAL CRISIS

It is well-documented that financial markets become more integrated during turmoil periods. In addition, the recent global financial crisis has led to an in depth analysis and discussion of the pros and cons of derivative instruments, particularly credit default swaps, which are considered as the best proxy for firm and sovereign default risk. The aim of this study is to explore if default risk, represented by CDS spreads, is embedded in stock returns. Our main assertion rests on the idea that if CDS spreads proxy default risk, then it should have informational content for stock markets and should have a significant impact in price formation process. The analysis is conducted by using CDS Regional Index spreads and MSCI Regional Index values in Europe, Pacific Region and Emerging Markets. The results indicate that changes in CDS Regional Index spreads significantly impact stock indices within the same region as well as cross-regionally.