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Accounting Conservatism and the Efficiency of Debt Contracts

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  • FRANK GIGLER
  • CHANDRA KANODIA
  • HARESH SAPRA
  • RAGHU VENUGOPALAN

Abstract

In this paper we examine how accounting conservatism affects the efficiency of debt contracting. We develop the statistical and informational properties of accounting reports under varying degrees of conditional and unconditional accounting conservatism, consistent with Basu's [1997] description of differential verifiability standards. Optimal debt covenants and interest rates on debt are derived from a natural tension between debt holders and equity claimants. We show how optimal covenants vary with the degree of conservatism and derive an efficiency metric that depends on the degree of conservatism. We find that accounting conservatism actually decreases the efficiency of debt contracts, contrary to the suggestions of Watts [2003] and contrary to the hypothesis in numerous empirical studies.

Suggested Citation

  • Frank Gigler & Chandra Kanodia & Haresh Sapra & Raghu Venugopalan, 2009. "Accounting Conservatism and the Efficiency of Debt Contracts," Journal of Accounting Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 47(3), pages 767-797, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:joares:v:47:y:2009:i:3:p:767-797
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-679X.2009.00336.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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