Corporate Governance, ESG, Audit Committee and Financial Performance in European Investment Holding Companies

The purpose of this research paper is to explore the connection between Corporate Governance, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Audit Committee (AC) and Financial Performance in European Investment Holding Companies. This paper aims to understand whether there is a correlation between these elements. The study answers the following research question: "What is the impact of corporate governance indicators, ESG and financial performance on investments in public holding companies in Europe?" Our findings reveal significant correlations between corporate governance structures and financial performance metrics, as well as the influence of ESG ratings on financial performance and corporate governance. Additionally, we identify the effects of audit committee characteristics on financial performance and ESG outcomes. The reported data is collected from a sample of companies included in the Refinitiv Eikon Database and analysed using a panel data analysis at both regional and industry level. The sample is composed of 228 European Companies, covering a period of 4 years, from 2019-2022. I chose this because it includes the impact of the pandemic and the post-pandemic recovery period, providing insight into the adaptability and resilience of companies in the face of major economic challenges.This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between corporate governance, ESG practices and financial performance, providing valuable insights for investors, managers and regulators aiming to navigate sustainable investment strategies in the European market. This sample is considered large enough to provide meaningful data and draw relevant conclusions. Companies from various European countries were included to reflect the diversity of the market and to analyse variations in governance and ESG practices in different national contexts. The focus on public holding companies provides a specific perspective on how these entities manage corporate governance and ESG, given their importance in the European economy. The selection of the sample was based on the availability of financial and corporate governance data to ensure the reliability and validity of the analysis. This data will be used to investigate how governance and ESG practices influence companies' financial performance, thus providing important insights for understanding the relationship between these aspects within the European market.