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The dynamics of CEO equity vs. inside debt and firm performance

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  • Pollock, Susan
  • Switzer, Lorne N.
  • Wang, Jun

Abstract

This paper provides new evidence on the comparative dynamic effects of CEO inside debt and equity compensation on firm performance as measured by Tobin’s Q. In contrast to the extant literature, we find significant empirical evidence supporting the classic Jensen and Meckling (1976) premise that managers should receive debt vs. equity compensation in proportion to the capital structure of the firm. We also provide new evidence showing that the effects of the CEO compensation structure on firm performance are dependent on the CEO’s time horizon, as measured by the expected period of employment to retirement. We show that the incremental benefits of equity compensation to performance increase with the CEO’s projected time to retirement. A similar, but insignificant relationship is observed for CEO inside debt compensation. Cash compensation is more beneficial to the firm when concentrated near the end of the CEO’s tenure.

Suggested Citation

  • Pollock, Susan & Switzer, Lorne N. & Wang, Jun, 2023. "The dynamics of CEO equity vs. inside debt and firm performance," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 64(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:riibaf:v:64:y:2023:i:c:s027553192300017x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ribaf.2023.101891
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    CEO compensation; Optimal capital structure; Agency costs; Employment horizon;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill

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