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Is there an inverse U-shaped relationship between pay and performance?

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  • Kuo, Hsien-Chang
  • Lin, Dan
  • Lien, Donald
  • Wang, Lie-Huey
  • Yeh, Li-Jen

Abstract

Given the increasing concerns about the escalation in executive compensation, this study aims to provide new insights into the link between executive pay and firm performance by empirically testing for an inverse U-shaped relationship. For this purpose, we re-examine the relation using a nonlinear model. Our results show a significant inverse U-shaped relationship between executive pay and firm performance. The finding provides support for both optimal contracting and managerial power theories with the former dominating at low level of firm performance and the latter dominating at high level of firm performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuo, Hsien-Chang & Lin, Dan & Lien, Donald & Wang, Lie-Huey & Yeh, Li-Jen, 2014. "Is there an inverse U-shaped relationship between pay and performance?," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 28(C), pages 347-357.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecofin:v:28:y:2014:i:c:p:347-357
    DOI: 10.1016/j.najef.2014.03.007
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    4. Clement Olalekan Olaniyi & Olaolu Richard Olayeni, 2020. "A new perspective into the relationship between CEO pay and firm performance: evidence from Nigeria’s listed firms," Journal of Social and Economic Development, Springer;Institute for Social and Economic Change, vol. 22(2), pages 250-277, December.
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    6. He, Yan & Chiu, Yung-ho & Zhang, Bin, 2015. "The impact of corporate governance on state-owned and non-state-owned firms efficiency in China," The North American Journal of Economics and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 33(C), pages 252-277.
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    8. Khurram, Muhammad Usman & Chen, Lifeng & Abedin, Mohammad Zoynul & Adu, Douglas A. & Lucey, Brian, 2024. "ESG disclosure and internal pay gap: Empirical evidence from China," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 92(C), pages 228-244.

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