INVESTMENT AND TOBINS-Q - EVIDENCE FROM COMPANY PANEL DATA

A Q model of investment is estimated using data for an unbalanced panel of UK companies over the period 1975-86. Correlated firm-specific effects and the endogeneity of Q are allowed for using a Generalised Method of Moments estimator. In the calculation of Q we estimate the tax incentives available to individual companies. Q is found to be a significant factor in the explanation of company investment, although its effect is small and a careful treatment of the dynamic structure of Q models appears critical. In addition to Q, both cash flow and output variables are found to play an independent and significant role.