Conceptualising the contemporary corporate value creation processes

Adams, C.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine and explain the complex interrelationships which influence the ability of firms to create value for their providers of finance and other stakeholders (loosely referred to in practice as ‘integrated thinking’). In doing so it examines the inter-relationships between: Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) risk; delivering on corporate strategy; non-financial corporate reporting; and, board oversight. Design/methodology/approach: Interviews were conducted with Board Chairs and Non-Executive Directors of large listed companies on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) (where Boards are required to have a Social and Ethics sub-committee and approve integrated reports which have been mandatory since 2010) and the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) (where Board directors’ liability legislation results in Boards being reluctant to adopt integrated reporting which is voluntary). Findings: The research finds that contemporary reporting processes, and in particular those set out in the King III Code and the International Integrated Reporting Framework, influence cognitive frames enhancing Board oversight and assisting organisations in managing complexity. This results in increased awareness of the impact of environmental and social issues and governance processes together with a broader view of value creation despite investor disinterest. Research implications: A number of avenues of research are suggested to further examine the interrelationships identified. Practical implications: The research assists the development of practice and policy by articulating and enhancing our understanding of linkages, which loosely fall under the vague practitioner term ‘integrated thinking’. Social implications: The conceptualisation can inform national and global discussions on the appropriateness of corporate reporting and governance models to achieve sustainable development. Originality/value: The paper conceptualises emerging and complex interrelationships. The cross country comparison allows an assessment of the extent to which different national social contexts with differing governance and reporting frameworks lead to different perspectives on, and approaches to, value creation.

Citation

Adams, C. (2017). Conceptualising the contemporary corporate value creation processes. Accounting, Auditing and Accountability Journal, 30(4), 906-931. https://doi.org/10.1108/aaaj-04-2016-2529

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Dec 22, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Apr 3, 2017
• Publication Date: May 15, 2017
• Deposit Date: Jan 11, 2017
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 12, 2017
• Journal: Accounting Auditing and Accountability
• Print ISSN: 0951-3574
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 30
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 906-931
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/aaaj-04-2016-2529
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1396661