Abstract

We examine the effect of chief financial officer (CFO) turnover on the likelihood and size of asset impairments. Using Australian data, we find evidence consistent with incoming CFOs recording larger asset impairments, particularly when they are external hires with prior listed experience, or receive equity-based compensation. Our results also indicate that outgoing CFOs report higher profits in the year prior to their departure by reporting fewer and smaller asset impairments. This effect is larger when outgoing CFOs move to another listed firm or receive equity-based compensation, consistent with reputational and compensation incentives to maximise earnings. Overall, our results provide evidence of the independent influence CFOs have on financial reporting. JEL Classification: M41, G34, M40

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.