Sailing with the non-conventional stocks when there is no place to hide

Abstract

This paper provides both theoretical and empirical support on how non-conventional (i.e., Islamic) stocks could act as a hedge during a tranquil environment and provide a shelter in times of a systematic economic and financial crisis. We build a three period model that focuses on Islamic equities’ financial filters, market wide liquidity and the role of Shariah conscious customers to show how Islamic stocks could provide a shelter during a financial crisis. We then offer empirical support by using quantile regressions to analyse the relation between conventional and non-conventional (i.e., Islamic) stock markets. Using major indices from around the world, we provide strong support for Islamic stocks as a hedge for majority of the markets under study suggesting that they offer a safe haven against most international markets. We suggest that during the major economic and financial crises, investors could use Islamic stocks to diversify their risks.