We use a unique dataset of 233 privatized firms from 38 countries between 1985 and 2008 to investigate the relation between shareholder identity and earnings quality. We find strong and robust evidence that (residual) state ownership is associated with lower earnings quality. More specifically,...

We use a unique dataset of 233 privatized firms from 38 countries between 1985 and 2008 to investigate the relation between shareholder identity and earnings quality. We find strong and robust evidence that (residual) state ownership is associated with lower earnings quality. More specifically,...

We study the influence of financial institutions' network on private debt renegotiation outside of distress. Lenders with a network-central position have access to superior private information, are more experienced and trustworthy and have a greater reputational capital. Using a large sample of...

We find that the strength of countries' legal institutions can explain the ability of private firms to identify and terminate poorly performing managers. This finding is consistent with our hypothesis that governance problems in private firms are ameliorated by strong institutions that reduce...

This paper argues that accountability in organizations should not be constrained to responsibilities alone, but it must also comprise the previous commitments without which responsibilities remain meaningless. It also asserts that transparency should not be merely predicated upon the production...

Using a large hand-collected database of 605 privatized firms from 48 countries, we examine the relationship between the collectivism measure of culture and residual state ownership in privatized firms. We find that the continued role of government in privatized firms is positively related to...

We study private shareholder engagements with 2,465 publicly listed firms from 2007 to 2020 about environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. We examine to what extent private engagements address financially material ESG issues and contribute to firm performance. We find that around 75%...

This paper examines contracts and the costs of accessing private markets globally. Contract terms vary by fund region and type. European funds charge lower fees than US funds, but evidence linking regulation to fee compression is weak. Investors’ costs are estimated to be 5% to 26% of...