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Disclosure Quality and Dividend Payout in Saudi Firms

Author

Listed:
  • Rashidah Abdul Rahman
  • Eman Saleh Fadel
  • NajlaAbdul Rahman
  • Amal Awad

Abstract

This study examines how disclosure quality influences the dividend payouts of firms, and provides further evidence concerning the outcome hypothesis and substitution hypothesis. Using a sample of non-financial Saudi Arabian listed firms during 2012-2014, our results provide support for the substitution hypothesis in which outsiders demand higher dividends in a low-quality disclosure environment as a “substitute” for opacity. Further analysis shows that managers pay a higher dividend in an opaque environment not only to establish a reputation among outside capital suppliers but also because they have to disgorge excess cash to circumvent free cash flow problems.

Suggested Citation

  • Rashidah Abdul Rahman & Eman Saleh Fadel & NajlaAbdul Rahman & Amal Awad, 2019. "Disclosure Quality and Dividend Payout in Saudi Firms," International Business Research, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 12(1), pages 16-26, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:ibrjnl:v:12:y:2019:i:1:p:16-26
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    voluntary disclosure; dividend payout; Saudi Arabia;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C33 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • F31 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Exchange
    • F41 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - Open Economy Macroeconomics

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