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Cost stickiness and firm value

Author

Listed:
  • Mabel D Costa

    (Durham University Business School)

  • Ahsan Habib

    (Massey University)

Abstract

In this paper we explore the association between cost stickiness and firm value. Using a large sample of U.S. data, we find a robust negative relationship between cost stickiness and firm value. We then explore whether the resource adjustment, managerial expectations, and agency theories of cost stickiness affect the negative relation and find support for the managerial expectation and agency theories. Furthermore, we find evidence that the detrimental impact of cost stickiness on firm value is mediated partially through the cost of equity and cash flow channels. Further investigation suggests that the adverse effects of cost stickiness on firm value is stronger in the presence of high information asymmetry. We enrich the cost management literature by integrating cost stickiness with corporate finance.

Suggested Citation

  • Mabel D Costa & Ahsan Habib, 2023. "Cost stickiness and firm value," Journal of Management Control: Zeitschrift für Planung und Unternehmenssteuerung, Springer, vol. 34(2), pages 235-273, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jmgtco:v:34:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1007_s00187-023-00356-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s00187-023-00356-z
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