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Exploring the Moderating Effect of Regulatory Quality on the Relationship Between ESG Performance and SDGs Disclosure: Evidence From OECD Countries

Author

Listed:
  • Waleed M. Alahdal
  • Ahmad Firdhauz Zainul Abidin
  • Muskan Sahu
  • May Abdulaziz Alamoudi
  • Hafiza Aishah Hashim

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance on sustainable development goals (SDGs) disclosure, considering the moderating role of regulatory quality (REQ) across 28 OECD countries from 2017 to 2022. This study employed a list of estimation methods, such as the random effect and fixed effect method, Driscoll–Kraay standard error, two‐stage least squares, and generalized method of moments for robustness checks. The analysis confirms that ESG performance significantly promotes SDG disclosure, while REQ negatively moderates this relationship. These findings highlight the nuanced influence of regulatory frameworks on sustainability and offer practical implications for both policymakers and businesses. This research contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of ESG, regulation, and SDG transparency.

Suggested Citation

  • Waleed M. Alahdal & Ahmad Firdhauz Zainul Abidin & Muskan Sahu & May Abdulaziz Alamoudi & Hafiza Aishah Hashim, 2025. "Exploring the Moderating Effect of Regulatory Quality on the Relationship Between ESG Performance and SDGs Disclosure: Evidence From OECD Countries," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(6), pages 7934-7950, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:6:p:7934-7950
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70061
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    References listed on IDEAS

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