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ESG Practices, Green Innovation, and Financial Performance: Panel Evidence from ASEAN Firms

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  • Suchart Tripopsakul

    (School of Entrepreneurship and Management, Bangkok University, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices on green innovation and financial performance among 174 publicly listed firms across ASEAN countries over the period from 2019 to 2023. Utilizing an unbalanced panel dataset of firms from key ASEAN economies, the analysis employs panel regression techniques. Green innovation performance is measured through innovation disclosures related to environmental technologies, while financial success is assessed via return on assets (ROA) and Tobin’s Q. The findings reveal that environmental and governance disclosure scores positively influence green innovation, whereas social scores exert a more immediate impact on financial performance. Moreover, green innovation is found to partially mediate the relationship between overall ESG practices and long-term market valuation. These results highlight the strategic role of ESG transparency in enhancing innovation-driven competitiveness, responsible business conduct, and sustainable employment across Southeast Asian markets. Implications are discussed for corporate managers, policymakers, and socially responsible investors. The study reinforces the case for ESG-aligned strategy as a pathway to both innovation, inclusive economic growth, and long-term competitiveness in ASEAN markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Suchart Tripopsakul, 2025. "ESG Practices, Green Innovation, and Financial Performance: Panel Evidence from ASEAN Firms," JRFM, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jjrfmx:v:18:y:2025:i:8:p:467-:d:1729279
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gunnar Friede & Timo Busch & Alexander Bassen, 2015. "ESG and financial performance: aggregated evidence from more than 2000 empirical studies," Journal of Sustainable Finance & Investment, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 5(4), pages 210-233, October.
    2. Wang, Kai & Li, Tingting & San, Ziyao & Gao, Hao, 2023. "How does corporate ESG performance affect stock liquidity? Evidence from China," Pacific-Basin Finance Journal, Elsevier, vol. 80(C).
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