The role of CEO narcissism in shaping environmental reporting: insights from an emerging economy

Purpose The study aims to investigate the association between chief executive officer (CEO) narcissism and environmental reporting in the banking industry of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a sample of 245 firm-year observations from the listed banks of Dhaka Stock Exchange spanning the period during 2018–2024. To measure CEO narcissism, we used two distinct indicators: (1) the prominence of the CEO's photograph in the annual report and (2) the size of the CEO's signature. The analysis employs both static and dynamic panel estimations to test the hypotheses. Findings Consistent with upper echelons theory, the results reveal a positive and statistically significant association between CEO narcissism and the extent of environmental reporting. Further analyses indicate that the association is stronger in larger firms and is positively moderated by CEO compensation, suggesting that organizational visibility and financial incentives amplify the disclosure-enhancing effects of narcissistic leadership. Importantly, the findings indicate an increase in the extent of environmental disclosures, rather than necessarily reflecting substantive environmental performance. Practical implications The results highlight the need for boards, regulators and policymakers to critically assess the credibility of environmental disclosures, particularly in contexts where reporting is largely voluntary. Strengthened governance mechanisms, enhanced disclosure standards and independent assurance may help mitigate the risk of symbolic reporting and greenwashing under narcissistic leadership. Originality/value This study provides the first evidence from an emerging economy on how CEO narcissism shapes environmental reporting behavior. By distinguishing between disclosure extent and substantive commitment, it contributes to the literature on executive personality, voluntary disclosure and corporate sustainability in emerging-market contexts.