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The future performance implications of Non-GAAP firms’ investments

Author

Listed:
  • Ahn, Minkwan
  • Christensen, Theodore E.
  • Johnson, Ryan G.
  • Lewis-Western, Melissa F.

Abstract

We investigate whether consistent non-GAAP reporting is associated with investment efficiency. Prior research finds a positive association between non-GAAP reporting and investment levels, concluding that it represents overinvestment. We corroborate this positive association, but additional tests are not consistent with the conclusion of inefficient overinvestment. Specifically, we explore the relation between investment and future cash flows as a proxy for the realization of investments in positive net present value projects. We find that the investments of firms that consistently report non-GAAP metrics are associated with similar or higher future cash flows than the investments of firms reporting only GAAP earnings, which is consistent with efficient investment. We observe similar associations in multiple specifications, performance horizons, and outcome variables, including future returns and earnings. Given the prevalence of non-GAAP reporting and the SEC's ongoing concern with the consequences of non-GAAP disclosure, our analyses offer timely evidence relevant to this important discussion.

Suggested Citation

  • Ahn, Minkwan & Christensen, Theodore E. & Johnson, Ryan G. & Lewis-Western, Melissa F., 2025. "The future performance implications of Non-GAAP firms’ investments," Journal of Accounting and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 79(2).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jaecon:v:79:y:2025:i:2:s0165410124000909
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jacceco.2024.101760
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Investment efficiency; Non-GAAP disclosure; Investment; Future performance; R&D; Intangible-investment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies
    • M41 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Accounting

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