Influence of Risk Aversion on Distinct Risky Investment Preference: The Mediating Role of Information Search

Abstract

Risk aversion is one of major psychological determinants of risky decision-making behavior and information search is often used as a way to overcome perceived risk by investors. This study attempted to propose a mediated model of the determinants of risky investment decision making where theorizing that the effect of risk aversion on risky investment decision was mediated by information search, integrating risk aversion and information search. We expected that the results could provide empirical support for (1) the inconsistency of risk aversion across different risky investment in financial domains, and (2) the usefulness of the mediated model which views the information search as a mediator of effects on indirect risky investment preference, especially the mediating role of professional advice. Thus the practical implications for professional advisors or for mutual fund companies could be addressed.