The practice of using earnings management methods under tax incentives absence and financial incentives restriction conditions

Abstract

Subject. This article analyzes the regularities of the processes of application of earnings management methods in the absence of tax incentives and in conditions of limited use of financial incentives. Objectives. The article aims to identify trends in the use of earnings management methods in the absence of tax incentives and in conditions of limited application of financial ones, and substantiate a set of analytical procedures for their identification to enhance the reliability of the organization's financial situation assessment. Methods. For the study, reviewing academic papers on the subject matter, I used the general scientific cognition methods of comparison, generalization, grouping, systematization, and the principle of historicism. Results. The article defines the most important financial incentives, including the tax ones, when earnings management is aimed at reducing or redistributing the tax burden, and financial incentives in terms of positioning in the stock market and adjusting dividend payments. The article finds the regularities of changes in individual financial indicators helping identify enterprises that likely use earnings management methods in terms of accounting for exchange rate differences. Conclusions and Relevance. The research shows that the probability of applying earnings management methods remains in the absence of discernible financial benefits in the short term in terms of reducing the tax burden or the possibility of attracting additional external financing in the financial markets. The unique character of the research lies in the study of the practice of applying earnings management methods in the absence of apparent financial incentives.