Abstract

This paper investigates the effects on financial reporting practices of a court ruling that made it easier for public corporations to defend against class-action litigation filed under securities laws. I find an increase in restatements and discretionary revenues for firms affected by the ruling relative to unaffected firms. Further, within affected firms, these results were concentrated among those most likely to face litigation. I also find a decline in debt covenant violations and an increase in investment levels. These results suggest that the threat of shareholder litigation can discipline managerial reporting practices.

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