China Economic Quarterly International (CEQI)

Volume 4, Number 4

December 2024

 

Fundamental research funding promotes college graduates’ employment: Evidence from the National Natural Science Foundation of China

Shilin Zheng and Peikang Zhang

 

Do shared bicycles promote residents’ consumption?

Yongli Chen, Xi Zhu, Jing Li and Yuge Bai

 

Supply chain interconnection and SME financing: From the perspective of supply chain finance and trade credit

Ye Guo and Ruoqi Yao

 

Public development finance and firm innovation

Jie Liu, Kun Xu and Jiarong Li

 

FDI deregulations and employment

Yongbing Chen, Jiawen Hu, Yurui Du and Chaoqun Zhan

 

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Fundamental research funding promotes college graduates’ employment: Evidence from the National Natural Science Foundation of China

Shilin Zheng and Peikang Zhang

Abstract

Drawing on the case of the the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), we examine the impact of fundamental research funding on college graduates’ employment. Our findings indicate that an increase in total funding is positively associated with higher monthly salaries and lower unemployment rate among graduates. The NSFC funding enhances scientific research output, improves teaching and experimental facilities, and provides more research opportunities for students. This paper provides policy implications on how China can cultivate talent and promote the employment of college graduates.

 

Do shared bicycles promote residents’ consumption?

Yongli Chen, Xi Zhu, Jing Li and Yuge Bai

Abstract

Using China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) data from 2010 to 2018, this paper employs a staggered difference-in-differences (DID) approach to unveil that the entry of bike-sharing significantly boosts per capita household expenditure by 3.9%–6.8%, along with an increase of 3.8%–4.9% in dining-out expenses. The analysis of mechanisms indicates that bike-sharing reduces the time cost per unit of consumption by alleviating traffic congestion, increases leisure time by reducing commute duration, and enhances net income by lowering rental expenses without affecting wage. Our findings provide evidence for the impact of the sharing economy on consumption and its mechanisms.

 

Supply chain interconnection and SME financing: From the perspective of supply chain

finance and trade credit

Ye Guo and Ruoqi Yao

Abstract

By using an enhanced enterprise matching approach, we obtained microdata on the supply chain interconnections between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and listed companies. Our findings suggest that becoming the main counterparties of listed companies can significantly improve the financing capabilities of SMEs through credit enhancement effects and supply chain finance. The credit enhancement effect of accounts receivable increases factoring and bill discounting for upstream SMEs; however, the funds obtained are often absorbed by listed companies through trade credit. SMEs with stronger market power tend to extend less trade credit and secure more loans, resulting in a more efficient structure and optimal amount of funds. These findings offer practical insights for guiding the development of supply chain finance.

 

Public development finance and firm innovation

Jie Liu, Kun Xu and Jiarong Li

Abstract

This paper empirically examines the impact of public development finance on firm innovation using loan data from public development finance institutions. The findings reveal that an increase in the size of loans from these institutions significantly enhances firm R&D investments and outputs, primarily reflected in substantial innovations, particularly in invention patents. The effect of public development finance on innovation varies depending on the nature and technological focus of the firm. Public development finance influences innovation through two main channels: financing constraints, which lower the cost of financing for firms, and infrastructure improvements, which enhance the overall business environment. Additionally, public development finance has a significant positive effect on firm value, driving increased corporate innovation.

 

FDI deregulations and employment

Yongbing Chen, Jiawen Hu, Yurui Du and Chaoqun Zhan

Abstract

We empirically investigate whether employment is affected by foreign direct investment (FDI). Empirical results show that the FDI deregulations promote employment by increasing the job creation rate. In addition to the employment expansion of incumbent firms, the FDI deregulations facilitate the entry of new firms, which also contributes to employment. Furthermore, FDI in upstream industries can promote employment in this industry, and FDI from other regions can promote local employment. Finally, a simple estimate shows that about USD 56,900 is required for each job created.