2.1. Exchange rate volatility and FDI
Theoretical predictions on the effects of exchange rate volatility on FDI flows are diverse. Dixit and Pindyck (1994, 1995), Pindyck (1998), Campa (1993) and Rivoli and Salorio (1996) claim that the changing value of real options, stemming from unexpected business uncertainty about the financial market, is the driving force behind FDI. One implication of this theory is that, given the sunk cost nature of local fixed costs, MNEs can withhold FDI if exchange rate uncertainty increases. Exchange rate volatility leads to uncertainty about the return, thereby increasing the value of delaying FDI. This option theory-based argument is valid even for risk neutral MNEs, as the sunk cost is the main determinant of the option value of holding investment.