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Attributes and Structure of an Effective Board of Directors: A Theoretical Investigation

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  • Adi Masli
  • Matthew G. Sherwood
  • Rajendra P. Srivastava

Abstract

Despite the board of directors’ importance, there is a lack of well‐developed theory regarding the interrelationship of the attributes of an effective board. Based on prior board literature, we develop and analyze, via Bayesian logic, a theoretical framework of key board attributes (Independence, Competency, Diligence, and Behavioural Attitudes), plus general board safeguards. We base our framework on the non‐linear ‘and’ relationship, among board attributes, instead of the linear ‘or’ relationship, as currently considered in academic research and assumed by board independence standard setters like the Securities Exchange Commission. Using inferential statistics we demonstrate that a board requires the presence of each attribute, plus safeguards to be effective, and no level of one attribute can substitute for the non‐existence of another.

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  • Adi Masli & Matthew G. Sherwood & Rajendra P. Srivastava, 2018. "Attributes and Structure of an Effective Board of Directors: A Theoretical Investigation," Abacus, Accounting Foundation, University of Sydney, vol. 54(4), pages 485-523, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:abacus:v:54:y:2018:i:4:p:485-523
    DOI: 10.1111/abac.12132
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