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Shareholders’ Perception of Auditor Type and Timing of Auditor Engagement: Evidence from Auditor Ratification

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  • Jennifer K. Howard
  • Myungsoo Son
  • Hakjoon Song

Abstract

Many companies present their selected auditor to shareholders for ratification. In this study, we use auditor ratification voting results to examine whether shareholders view the type of auditor and the timing of the engagement as indicative of audit quality. The auditor ratification literature has yet to explicitly examine these research questions. Our study is unique in that we focus on the auditor switch setting and test how shareholders view a newly hired auditor. We find that shareholders are less likely to approve a non‐Big N auditor than a Big N auditor. We also document that shareholders view late auditor engagements (i.e., during or after the fourth quarter) more negatively, consistent with the argument that late appointment of new auditors should be viewed with caution. The timing effect is particularly acute for non‐Big N firms; however, shareholders do not seem to mind late engagements of Big N auditors.

Suggested Citation

  • Jennifer K. Howard & Myungsoo Son & Hakjoon Song, 2023. "Shareholders’ Perception of Auditor Type and Timing of Auditor Engagement: Evidence from Auditor Ratification," Australian Accounting Review, CPA Australia, vol. 33(3), pages 284-301, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ausact:v:33:y:2023:i:3:p:284-301
    DOI: 10.1111/auar.12398
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    7. Clive S. Lennox, 1999. "Audit Quality and Auditor Size: An Evaluation of Reputation and Deep Pockets Hypotheses," Journal of Business Finance & Accounting, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 26(7‐8), pages 779-805, September.
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    Cited by:

    1. Yaowen Shan & Sue Wright, 2023. "Contemporary Challenges: Spotlight on Climate, Cryptocurrencies and SME Practices," Australian Accounting Review, CPA Australia, vol. 33(3), pages 229-229, September.

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