The impact of managerial discretion on fair value information in the Australian agricultural sector

Abstract

AbstractThis study examines the application of fair value measurement for biological assets and how managers exercise their discretion over fair value measurement to achieve desired earnings outcomes. Using Australian data, we find that managers report larger agricultural gains when the earnings target is not met. This phenomenon is more prominent when managers are provided with higher levels of discretion. Boards of directors appear to understand this strategy and distinguish unrealised agricultural earnings from other earnings when compensating managers. However, boards do not appear to intervene in managers’ choices of fair value estimates.