Changes in Management Trends in 100 Global Companies before and after COVID-19: A Topic Modeling Approach

Abstract

Amid the global economic crisis due to COVID-19, consumer interest in CSR reports of global corporations has surged. CEO messages within these reports are crucial during such crises. This study aims to understand CEOs’ perceptions of key CSR issues and corporate strategies during global crises. Utilizing topic modeling, CEO messages from Fortune Global’s top 100 companies are analyzed before and after COVID-19. Compared to previous periods, social and environmental issues like climate change are more prominent. Key strategies include sustainable management development, risk management, and competitive advantage. This study offers insights into the importance of CSR reporting as a communication tool for managing stakeholders during crises. With COVID-19’s global impact, understanding changes in global companies and comparing pre-crisis conditions contributes significantly to the literature.