The effect of goodwill impairment avoidance on future performance growth: Evidence from Thailand

Abstract

This study explores the impact of goodwill impairment avoidance on the future financial performance growth of firms listed on the Stock Exchanges of Thailand (SET). Spanning 14 years from 2008 to 2021, the research analyzes 405 observations from 124 distinct firms, utilizing multivariate regression models to uncover the relationship. The study also focuses on understanding how Big 4 auditors can impact this dynamic.

The study finds evidence that firms avoiding timely goodwill impairment exhibit lower performance growth in the subsequent year. Interestingly, the negative impact of goodwill avoidance is less pronounced for firms audited by one of the Big 4 compared to those audited by non-Big 4 firms.

The practical implications of the findings extend to stakeholders in Thailand's financial landscape. Users of financial statements can refine decision-making by scrutinizing report reliability and staying vigilant about firms suspected of goodwill impairment avoidance. Regulators can leverage the research to consider improvements to accounting standards. The study highlights the crucial role of Big 4 audit firms in mitigating adverse effects, emphasizing the significance of auditor reputation and oversight in financial reporting, particularly concerning goodwill impairment recognition.