The effect of COVID-19 on Indian stock market volatility: can economic package control the uncertainty?

Abstract

Purpose The stock market has shown fluctuating degrees of volatility because of the recent COVID-19 pandemic in India. The present research aims to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 on the stock market volatility, and whether the economic package can control the market volatility or not, measured by a set of certain sector-level economic features and factors such as resilience variables. Design/methodology/approach We examine the correlation matrix, basic volatility model and robustness tests to determine the sector-level economic features and macroeconomic factors helpful in diminishing the volatility rising because of the COVID-19. Findings The outcomes of this study are significant as policymakers and financial analysts can apply these economic factors to set policy replies to handle the unexpected fluctuation in the stock market in sequence to circumvent any thinkable future financial crisis. Originality/value The originality of the paper is to measure the variables affecting the stock market volatility due to COVID-19, and understand the impact of capital market macroeconomic variables and dummy variables to theoretically explain the COVID-19 impact on stock market volatility.