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Bridging divides with data: Open government data and ESG rating divergence

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  • Liu, Ximeng
  • Wang, Fengzheng
  • Xiang, Youtao

Abstract

Fully unleashing the informational value of public data to mitigate ESG rating divergence has become a crucial driver for motivating corporate engagement in sustainable development. Grounded in cognitive consistency theory, the study explores the effects and mechanisms through which open government data influences ESG divergence. The results demonstrate that open government data significantly reduces ESG rating divergence. Through mechanism analysis, we clarify that enhanced corporate information transparency and strengthened information credibility serve as fundamental channels through which open government data alleviates ESG rating divergence. Heterogeneity tests indicate the influence of open government data on ESG divergence is more pronounced under superior innovation conditions, advanced digital transformation, and smaller firm size. This research contributes to reducing ESG rating divergence, guiding corporate participation in ESG practices, and ultimately advancing sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Ximeng & Wang, Fengzheng & Xiang, Youtao, 2026. "Bridging divides with data: Open government data and ESG rating divergence," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 157(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecmode:v:157:y:2026:i:c:s0264999326000209
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econmod.2026.107491
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    JEL classification:

    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • D82 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Asymmetric and Private Information; Mechanism Design
    • H41 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - Public Goods

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