The notion that different accounting standards are associated with different levels of earnings
quality is evidenced in previous studies. By systematically modelling the effects of tightening
accounting standards, Ewert and Wagenhofer (2005) conclude that higher earnings quality
can be achieved by having stricter accounting standards that limit the number of accounting
choices and prescribe clearer rules. In particular, their results confirm that tighter accounting
standards increase earnings quality measured by the variability of reported earnings and the
association between reported earnings and market price reactions