abstract
We investigate if timely loss recognition is associated with acquisition-investment
decisions. Using a Basu (1997) piece-wise linear regression model, we find that firms
with more timely incorporation of economic losses into earnings make more profitable
acquisitions, measured by the bidder’s announcement returns and by changes in postacquisition
operating performance. These firms are also less likely to make postacquisition
divestitures (consistent with better ex ante investment decisions), but act
more quickly to divest. We also find that the positive association between timely loss
recognition and acquisition profitability is more pronounced for firms with higher ex
ante agency costs.
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