Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of ESG rating changes of companies listed in Korean Stock Exchange on stock returns.
 Design/methodology/approach - This study collected prices and ESG ratings of all the companies listed on the Korea Composite Stock Price Index. Based on yearly change of ESG ratings we grouped companies as 2 portfolios(upgrade and downgrade) and calculated portfolios’ return.
 Findings - First, the difference in returns between upgraded and downgraded portfolios is small and statistically insignificant. Second, however, in the COVID-19 period (2020 ~ 2021), the upgraded portfolio outperforms the downgraded portfolio by 0.7 percentage points per month. The difference in returns between upgraded and downgraded portfolios is statistically significant after controlling for the Carhart four factors. Lastly, there are much higher volatility when the ESG rating changes are made of companies with low levels of ESG ratings.
 Research implications or Originality This study is the first to examine the impact of ESG rating changes on stock returns in Korea. Furthermore, the findings can serve as a reference for managers who want to control a firm's risk by ESG rating changes. Practically, asset managers can use the findings to construct portfolios that are less risky or more profitable than the market portfolio.
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