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We explore the determinants of bilateral portfolio investments and their dynamics by using data from nine waves of the IMF coordinated portfolio investment survey (CPIS). The main goal of our analysis is that of understanding whether a diversification motive can be found, among the various determinants. As diversification variable, we use the correlation between the idiosyncratic components of gross domestic product (GDP) growth and take into account unobserved heterogeneity by means of a country pair-fixed effect panel model. We find strong evidence that a diversification motive is relevant to explain bilateral portfolio holdings. It also turns out that investing in stocks of less synchronised partner economies contributes to income smoothing to some extent.