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Modeling Managers as EPS Maximizers

Author

Listed:
  • Ben-David, Itzhak

    (Ohio State U)

  • Chinco, Alex

    (Baruch College, CUNY)

Abstract

Textbook theory assumes that firm managers maximize the net present value of future cash flows. But when you ask them, real-world firm managers consistently say that they are maximizing something else entirely: earnings per share (EPS). Perhaps this is a mistake. No matter. We take firm managers at their word and show that EPS maximization provides a single unified explanation for a wide range of corporate policies such as leverage, share repurchases, M&A payment method, cash accumulation, and capital budgeting.

Suggested Citation

  • Ben-David, Itzhak & Chinco, Alex, 2023. "Modeling Managers as EPS Maximizers," Working Paper Series 2023-06, Ohio State University, Charles A. Dice Center for Research in Financial Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:ohidic:2023-06
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill
    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • G35 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Payout Policy

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