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Media heterogeneity and corporate ESG performance: evidence from China

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  • Wang, Zi
  • Zheng, Dechang

Abstract

Based on a research sample of Chinese listed firms from 2010 to 2020, this study explores the heterogeneous roles of market-oriented and state-controlled media in affecting corporate ESG performance. We find that only negative coverage by market-oriented media can significantly promote corporate ESG, which remains robust for a series of tests. The mechanism analysis indicates that the different roles of negative market-oriented and state-controlled media coverage in ESG are due to their heterogeneous influence on corporate reputation. Moreover, these heterogeneous influences are affected by government intervention, analyst attention, and industries' pollution intensity. Finally, we show that doing more ESG as response to negative market-oriented media coverage is economically efficient and does not crowd out R&D investment.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Zi & Zheng, Dechang, 2025. "Media heterogeneity and corporate ESG performance: evidence from China," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 101(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:101:y:2025:i:c:s1059056025003375
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2025.104174
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    JEL classification:

    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility
    • M21 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Economics - - - Business Economics

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