THE MEDIATING ROLE OF EARNINGS MANAGEMENT IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE FIRM LIFE CYCLE AND THE COST OF EQUITY: EVIDENCE FROM BANKS IN IRAQ

The present study seeks to examine the interaction among three separate variables. The initial variable relates to the organization's life cycle and financial attributes. The second variable pertains to the procedures of firm management that influence performance and financial condition, as demonstrated by earnings management. Investors manage the impact of the previous two factors by weighing the risks and potential gains, which the corporation terms as "the cost of equity." We utilized these variables to analyze 15 Iraqi commercial banks that have been listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange for 10 years, equivalent to 150 observations.Our quantitative assessment of the study variables, conducted using models from the relevant literature, has yielded significant findings. We have uncovered a direct correlation between the life cycle and earnings management, indicating a beneficial association. Moreover, we have revealed that each factor exerts a unique and favourable influence on the cost of equity. The correlation between the life cycle and earnings management has led to an increase in the favourable influence of earnings management on the cost of equity. Conversely, the life cycle now has an inverse impact on the cost of equity, with the cost of equity being mainly influenced by the maturity stage. These findings have important implications for stock market traders, as they guide them to direct their investments towards banks that offer higher returns relative to the level of risk, considering the age group and the administration's approach to managing announced profits. This study's implications for stock market traders are significant, as it provides them with valuable insights for making informed investment decisions. It also serves as a guide for future studies in this field.