Empirical research now indicates that socially responsible actions may have a positive effect on a firm’s financial performance. Although a number of studies in the past have found no significant relationship, an increasing number are finding a small, but positive relationship. A recent in-depth analysis by Margolis and Walsh of 127 studies found that “there is a positive association and very little evidence of a negative association between a company’s social performance and its financial performance.”Another meta-analysis of 52 studies on social responsibility and performance reached this same conclusion. According to Porter and Kramer, “social and economic goals are not inherently conflicting, but integrally connected.” Being known as a socially responsible firm may provide a company with social capital, the goodwill of key stakeholders, that can be used for competitive advantage. Target, for example, tries to attract socially concerned younger consumers by offering brands from companies that can boost ethical track records and community involvement. In a 2004 study conducted by the strategic marketing firm Cone, Inc., eight in ten Americans said that corporate support of social causes helps earn their loyalty. This was a 21% increase since 1997.