Abstract

This study examines the association between free cash flow (FCF) and audit fees. The association is expected given Jensen's argument that managers of low growth/high FCF firms engage in non-value-maximizing activities. These activities increase auditors' assessments of inherent risk and, in turn, audit effort and fees. Jensen also argues debt mitigates the non-value-maximizing activities. Thus, the positive FCF/audit fees association is expected to be weaker for low growth firms with high debt than for similar firms with low debt. Regression results for a sample of low growth Hong Kong firms support these hypotheses.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.