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Testing the Relationship between Free Cash Flow and Company Performance in Borsa Istanbul

Author

Listed:
  • Eyup Kadioglu
  • Saim Kilic
  • Ender Aykut Yilmaz

Abstract

This study tests whether free cash flow affects the performance of firms in the context of the free cash flow hypothesis. The study applies a panel regression method to a data set consisting of 2,175 observations belonging to 370 companies listed in Borsa Istanbul during the period 2009-2015. A significant, negative relationship is found between free cash flow and firm performance measured by Tobin’s Q ratio. Greater free cash flow in the hands of managers leads to the lower performance and, conversely, less free cash flow in the hands of managers leads to higher performance. The results also confirm that leverage and dividend payments have a positive effect on performance. Thus, the results support the free cash flow hypothesis for Turkey.

Suggested Citation

  • Eyup Kadioglu & Saim Kilic & Ender Aykut Yilmaz, 2017. "Testing the Relationship between Free Cash Flow and Company Performance in Borsa Istanbul," International Business Research, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 10(5), pages 148-158, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:ibrjnl:v:10:y:2017:i:5:p:148-158
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    free cash flow hypothesis; agency theory; free cash flow; Tobin’s Q; Borsa Istanbul; emerging markets;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G10 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)
    • G15 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - International Financial Markets
    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • G35 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Payout Policy

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