Peering through the smokescreen: ESG disclosure and CEO personality

This study examines whether chief executive officer (CEO) with narcissistic tendencies are more likely to disclose ESG activities. Focusing on a sample of 118 US S&P 500‐listed companies over the period 2011–2018, the study uses the generalized estimating equation. The results indicate that a CEO with high narcissism is more likely to disclose social and corporate governance activities. These findings clarify the relationship between CEO personality traits and ESG disclosure to help investors and stakeholders with decision‐making. Further in light of these findings, regulators are recommended to reinforce the legal framework of ESG disclosure pushing for more transparency with high levels of supervision.