Independent audit quality and corporate cash holdings

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of independent audit quality on corporate cash holdings in China's stock markets. The findings reveal a negative relationship between independent audit quality and corporate cash holdings. It is observed that high-quality, independent audits can effectively reduce corporate cash holdings. Furthermore, the study highlights the significant moderating effect of property ownership on the relationship between independent audit quality and cash holdings. Specifically, the impact of independent audit quality on cash holdings is more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises compared to state-owned enterprises.