The Level of Cash Holdings and Financial Performance: Evidence from Firms Listed on Borsa Istanbul 50 Index

Abstract

Cash is of great importance to firms operating in emerging economies. Cash, one of the most important assets, creates shareholder value when rationally used by firm management. This paper aims to reveal the relationship between financial performance and cash holdings by using a sample that consists of non-financial firms listed in Borsa Istanbul 50 index. The result of empirical analysis provides strong evidence that financial performance is positively influenced by cash holdings. Further, firm size, capital intensity ratio and current ratio did not significantly influence the financial performance of sample firms, while financial performance of sample firms is significantly influenced sales growth and financial leverage. Overall, the research findings indicate that firm-specific factors are important factors that affect the relationship between financial performance and cash holdings. The present paper provides important insights for creditors, shareholders and firm management on the impacts of cash holding levels on financial performance.