Finance Cavalcade 2013: A Look Back

The Finance Cavalcade, a highly regarded academic conference series focused on corporate finance, held its 2013 iteration in Waterloo, Canada. Hosted by the Lazaridis School of Business & Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University, the event drew a diverse and international group of researchers, academics, and industry professionals. The cavalcade provided a platform for the presentation and discussion of cutting-edge research across a broad spectrum of topics in corporate finance.

The conference program featured a curated selection of research papers, showcasing the latest thinking on issues ranging from capital structure and dividend policy to mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and the impact of macroeconomic factors on firm behavior. Presentations were delivered by both established scholars and rising stars in the field, fostering a dynamic environment of intellectual exchange.

Keynote speakers at the 2013 Finance Cavalcade included prominent figures in finance academia. Their presentations often provided broader perspectives on emerging trends and challenges facing the industry. These addresses served not only to inform but also to inspire further research and innovation within the finance community.

Beyond the formal paper presentations and keynote addresses, the Finance Cavalcade 2013 offered ample opportunities for networking and collaboration. Informal discussions during coffee breaks and social events allowed attendees to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and forge new partnerships. This collaborative atmosphere is a hallmark of the Cavalcade series, contributing to its reputation as a premier venue for academic discourse.

The research presented at the 2013 conference reflected several key themes prevalent in the field at the time. The lingering effects of the 2008 financial crisis were still influencing research agendas, with a focus on risk management, financial stability, and the role of regulation. There was also a growing interest in the impact of behavioral biases on corporate decision-making, as well as the role of information technology and big data in shaping financial markets. Furthermore, sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors were beginning to gain traction as important considerations in corporate finance research.

In conclusion, the Finance Cavalcade 2013 served as a valuable forum for the dissemination of cutting-edge research and the exchange of ideas among leading academics and practitioners. The conference contributed to the advancement of knowledge in corporate finance and provided a platform for the development of future research agendas. By fostering collaboration and intellectual exchange, the cavalcade played a significant role in shaping the direction of the field.