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Getting compensation right - The choice of performance measures in CEO bonus contracts and earnings management

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  • Tahir, Muhammad
  • Ibrahim, Salma
  • Nurullah, Mohamed

Abstract

This paper examines whether the choice of performance measures in CEO bonus compensation contracts is associated with earnings management. From a sample of FTSE350 Index firms over the period of 2005–2014, we investigate the relationship between earnings management, through discretionary accruals and real activities management, and (1) the use of and extent of reliance on financial and non-financial performance measures in CEO bonus contracts; and (2) the use of long-term and short-term measures in CEO bonus contracts. We find less income-increasing manipulation through discretionary accruals and expenses when non-financial performance measures (NFPMs) are used alongside financial performance measures (FPMs) and when the NFPMs are used to a larger extent than FPMs. Furthermore, we find less discretionary accruals when long-term performance measures are used. This implies that non-financial and long-term measures encourage executives to work towards the long-term success of the company rather than their own short-term reward.

Suggested Citation

  • Tahir, Muhammad & Ibrahim, Salma & Nurullah, Mohamed, 2019. "Getting compensation right - The choice of performance measures in CEO bonus contracts and earnings management," The British Accounting Review, Elsevier, vol. 51(2), pages 148-169.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:bracre:v:51:y:2019:i:2:p:148-169
    DOI: 10.1016/j.bar.2018.09.004
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Earnings management; Executive compensation; Financial and non-financial performance measures; Discretionary accruals; Real activities management;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M12 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Personnel Management; Executives; Executive Compensation
    • M41 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Accounting

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