COVID-19-related disclosures by listed firms in Vietnam

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to measure the COVID-19-related disclosure extent of listed firms in Vietnam and its associated factors. Design/methodology/approach The authors apply a previously developed reporting framework to evaluate the disclosures of 100 listed firms with the largest market capitalization on the Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh stock exchanges as of 31 December 2021. The disclosures were from integrated reports, annual reports, corporate governance reports and financial statements. The authors then used a regression model to examine the factors that influenced the disclosures, such as corporate governance, ownership concentration and firm profiles. Findings The research results reveal that the extent of COVID-19-related disclosure in Vietnam is relatively low. It also finds that the audit committee, firm size, age and industry are positively associated with the extent of COVID-19-related disclosure. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine COVID-19-related disclosures of listed companies in Vietnam and their determinants. It contributes significantly to the empirical evidence in this field. The findings of this study can help corporate managers and policymakers to improve information disclosure practices during future financial crises.