A methodological limitation underlying earnings management research is the
possible existence of a correlated omitted-variables problem, which results in biased
parameter estimates in equation (1); that is, nonzero estimates may be observed even in
the absence of earnings manipulation." To determine whether this correlated omittedvariables
problem is serious in the current context, the sensitivity of the results of
equation (1) is evaluated relative to asset sale levels (i.e., cash generated by asset sales),
bonus plans, and possible tax effects.