Randomized trial demonstrates the impact of ESG performance on investment efficiency in firms, highlighting financial constraints' role.
This study investigates the relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, investment efficiency and the moderating effect of financial constraints among S&P 1500 firms from 2010 to 2023. Using generalised method of moments (GMMs) estimators to address endogeneity and heterogeneity, we employ three investment inefficiency proxies and two financial constraint measures (the SA and WW indices). ESG scores are negatively associated with investment inefficiency, suggesting improved capital allocation and this relationship becomes stronger under higher levels of financial constraints. Governance practices are associated with the largest reduction in inefficiency, followed by social and environmental practices.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Abdalla et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: