The Validity of Modigliani-Miller Theorem at the Commercial Banking Industry of Jordan

Abstract

The study objects for investigating whether the findings of Modigliani-Miller Theorem (1958-1963), are valid in the environment of listed commercial banks at Amman Stock Exchange. To achieve the objective of the study, data of 13 out of a total of 15 listed commercial banks, covering the period (2010-019), had been collected and tested, using descriptive statistics and the ordinary least square method. The analysis of the data and hypothesis testing leads to an existence of a significant positive impact of debt on the firm market value. Opposite to Modigliani-Miller theorem, the study finds that debt is relevant to the bank market value, and it has a positive significant on bank market value. The conclusion is not in conflict with the finding of Modigliani-Miller 1958, where the authors assumed free tax, while the commercial banks of Jordan are subject to tax. Therefore, the finding of the current study are consistent with the adjusted Modigliani-Miller 1963 theory. More studies taking into consideration different industries and different business environments are strongly recommended.