New Connections Between Integrated Reporting and Intellectual Capital: Future Research Implications in the Context of Sustainability-Related Information

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study was to identify new links between Integrated Reporting (IR) and Intellectual Capital (IC) fields, useful for sustainability and climate change disclosures with ISSB standards. Theoretical Framework: The literature that has integrated IC and IR fields has been developed, mainly from the IC research perspective, addressing a wide range of thematic specializations that emerge when analyzing the research areas. Design/Methodology/Approach: We developed a Structured Literature Review (SLR) of articles indexed in Scopus, which allowed us to build a specific analytical framework from emerging categories; we rely on AtlasTi and VOSviewer software. Findings: We found that the literature converges towards the following research areas: Reviews and reflections on the IR framework as a means for IC disclosure; Proposals to improve the IR framework and IR disclosures through IR; The IR framework and definition, measurement, and management of IC within organizations; disclosures of CI in contexts of practical adoption of RI; Disclosure of IC through IR, its determinants, and effects. Research, Practical & Social Implications: We identified the need to advance research under a performative approach, research on stakeholder satisfaction by revealing IC through IR and the relationship of IC with information related to sustainability in the new ISSB context. The paper identifies previously unexamined connections between IC and IR and proposes future avenues of research. Originality/Value: This study raises the need for increased policy research to define a common language for presenting comparable IC information in ISSB sustainability reports. In addition, studies are needed to help identify IC information, other IR capital and metrics, which could represent material information for investors to assess sustainability-related risks and opportunities.