Date of Award
5-1-2024
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Economics
First Advisor
Lahiri, Sajal
Abstract
This dissertation is divided into three chapters, each addressing distinct aspects of female ownership in businesses, utilizing data from the EBRD-EIB-WBG Enterprise Surveys conducted between 2018 and 2020 across 41 economies. In the first chapter, we explore the determinants of female ownership in firms, with a focus on the extensive margin. We examine various firm characteristics, particularly emphasizing the role of access to finance. Employing logistic regression models and fixed effects coefficients, we analyze data from approximately 28,000 enterprises. Results reveal considerable heterogeneity in the factors influencing female ownership, with access to finance playing a pivotal role. Interaction terms between firm characteristics and access to finance offer insights into their interplay.The second chapter delves into the intensive margin of female ownership in firms. Investigating the impact of firm heterogeneity on gender ownership percentage, we employ regression analyses, including a two-limit Tobit model. Results underscore the heterogeneity between firm characteristics and the gender of the top manager. Interaction terms shed light on the differential effects across firm sizes and statuses, offering a comprehensive understanding of female ownership dynamics.In the third Chapter, we introduce a novel analysis framework to explore the relationship between firm characteristics and female ownership decisions. Leveraging BEEBS data, we investigate the impact of political activity and election participation on female ownership. Contrary to expectations, results reveal unexpected effects, particularly regarding firm status and age. The Heckman Two-Step method addresses data selection bias issues, enabling a comprehensive examination of female ownership within firms.
Access
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