Irish Academy of Finance (IAF) 2024 Annual Conference: A Synopsis

The Irish Academy of Finance (IAF) convened its 5th Annual Conference from May 15th to 17th, 2024, at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel in Dunboyne, Co Kildare. The conference brought together esteemed academics, researchers, and PhD students from Ireland and beyond, emphasising the IAF’s dedication to advancing finance research and fostering collaborative engagement within the academic and professional finance communities.

The conference was thoughtfully structured to cover a wide range of contemporary finance topics through various sessions, allowing participants to delve into the latest research and developments. The event commenced with registration, followed by a diverse set of parallel sessions over two days.
Sessions on derivatives and corporate finance featured discussions on options portfolio selection, transaction costs in option investment strategies, product market competition, and the impacts of controlling shareholders on firm leverage.

Subsequent sessions explored the intersections of fintech, AI, and machine learning with finance, highlighting the transformative impact of technological advancements on financial markets and institutions.
Another significant focus was on investments and behavioural finance, with presentations on optimising currency factors, smart beta portfolios, active portfolio management, investor sentiment, and the rank effect in investment behaviour. These sessions underscored innovative strategies and psychological aspects influencing investment decisions.
The conference also delved into climate finance, ESG, and sustainability, addressing issues such as the liquidity premia in corporate bonds, the effects of precipitation risk on stock returns, and the implications of ESG disclosure regulations on mergers and acquisitions.

Furthermore, researchers examined the effects of banking sector consolidation, common trading pressures, and creditor rights on financial stability and corporate financial policies, providing essential insights for policymakers and financial institutions aiming to enhance the robustness of the banking system.

The conference featured a plenary session by Professor Elroy Dimson from Cambridge Judge Business School, who presented on “Investing for the Long Term,” providing profound insights into long-term investment strategies and asset management. The event concluded with a general assembly meeting, facilitating further discussions and future planning for the IAF.

The conference provided an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange and networking, particularly benefiting PhD students through mentorship and the opportunity to present their job market papers. The IAF’s efforts in organising this comprehensive and engaging conference were well-appreciated, setting a high standard for future gatherings.

In conclusion, the IAF 2024 Annual Conference was a significant event that successfully brought together the finance research community to share knowledge, discuss contemporary issues, and foster collaborations. The diverse sessions and high-quality presentations underscored the IAF’s commitment to advancing finance research and education, making it a cornerstone event for academics and professionals in the field.