Publications

Investment Banks, Scope, and Unavoidable Conflicts of Interest
Erik Sirri
In recent years investment banks have drawn particular criticism for the lack of objectivity and independence in their research reports and analyst recommendations. This article argues that this conflict of interest is but one of many potential conflicts that arise as banks take advantage of the scope economies inherent in providing the customary business lines of investment banking under one roof.

Mutual Funds: Temporary Problem or Permanent Morass?
Paula Tkac
The improprieties in the mutual fund industry that surfaced in the fall of 2003 prompted the passage and drafting of legislation and regulations that cover nearly every facet of mutual fund pricing and operations. While this regulatory flurry is clearly intended to protect shareholders' interests, the question remains: How will these scandals and regulatory changes ultimately affect mutual fund investors?

Searching for a New Center: U.S. Securities Markets in Transition
Maureen O'Hara
Technological challenges, governance issues, competitive pressures, and questions about the oversight of trading practices are but a few of the many forces besetting U.S. equity markets. This article outlines some important issues surrounding the evolving structure of the U.S. equity markets and offers some alternative regulatory approaches that might be more consistent with this new competitive environment.