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Executive power discrepancy and corporate ESG greenwashing

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  • Zhao, Xinlu
  • Huang, Xiaohui
  • Liu, Fang
  • Pan, Lin

Abstract

Originating from the theory of organizational hierarchy, the concept of power discrepancy among corporate executives has garnered scholarly attention due to its roots in the unequal distribution of authority and influence within the upper echelons of management. This paper explores the realm of corporate ESG greenwashing, a deceptive practice masking genuine environmental, social, and governance responsibilities, and empirically investigates the influence of executive power discrepancies on such practices. Findings indicate a direct correlation between increased executive power discrepancies and a heightened propensity towards ESG greenwashing. Furthermore, the impact of this discrepancy is notably more pronounced in non-state-owned entities, corporations operating in highly marketized regions, and those with substantial financing constraints. This study contributes to the nuanced understanding of how disparities in executive power shape corporate ESG conduct, enriches the discourse on corporate governance structures, and fosters the evolution of theories related to internal governance and social accountability, offering vital practical insights.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhao, Xinlu & Huang, Xiaohui & Liu, Fang & Pan, Lin, 2024. "Executive power discrepancy and corporate ESG greenwashing," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 96(PA).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finana:v:96:y:2024:i:pa:s1057521924004654
    DOI: 10.1016/j.irfa.2024.103533
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kent Walker & Fang Wan, 2012. "The Harm of Symbolic Actions and Green-Washing: Corporate Actions and Communications on Environmental Performance and Their Financial Implications," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 109(2), pages 227-242, August.
    2. Birindelli, Giuliana & Chiappini, Helen & Jalal, Raja Nabeel-Ud-Din, 2024. "Greenwashing, bank financial performance and the moderating role of gender diversity," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 69(C).
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    6. Huang, Huiqin & Wang, Chenglong & Yu, Wei & Zhu, Keying, 2023. "Does powerful executive holding a dual post as the board secretary reduce nonpunitive regulation?," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 89(C).
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    Cited by:

    1. Peng, Shengnan & Liu, Chan & Wang, Ze & Ye, Zihan & Sun, Xialing & Tan, Zhanglu, 2024. "The impact of the carbon reduction policy effectiveness on energy companies' ESG performance," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 96(PB).

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