International Diversification, SFAS 131, and Debt Maturity Structure

• Autores: Changjiang Wang
• Localización: Journal of Accounting Auditing and Finance, ISSN-e 2160-4061, ISSN 0148-558X, Vol. 35, Nº 2, 2020, págs. 438-468
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • This study examines the impact of geographic segment disclosures under the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131 (SFAS 131) on the debt maturity structure of internationally diversified firms. I find that the proportion of short-maturity debt increases with a firm’s international diversification. Moreover, the implementation of SFAS 131 attenuates the positive relation between international diversification and short-maturity debt. This attenuation effect is more pronounced for firms that continue to disclose geographic segment earnings in the post-SFAS 131 period than firms that do not. As short-maturity debt subjects firms to refinancing and potential costly liquidation risks, these results suggest a beneficial role of SFAS 131 in reducing firms’ reliance on short-maturity debt to address information asymmetry and agency costs of debt arising from international diversification. Furthermore, this study suggests that enhanced mandatory disclosure has a real effect on firms’ financing activities and capital structure.