The Effect of Environmental Performance and Environmental Disclosure on Market Performance: Financial Performance as a Moderating Variable

This study investigates the effect of environmental performance and environmental disclosure on market performance, with financial performance as a moderating variable. The research is motivated by the growing emphasis on sustainable practices and the market's increasing attention to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics. A quantitative method using explanatory research was applied, with data collected from 34 companies listed in the SRI-KEHATI, ESG, and LQ45 Low Carbon indices on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2014–2023. Environmental performance was measured using PROPER ratings, environmental disclosure through the GRI-based CSR Disclosure Index, and market performance via Cumulative Abnormal Return (CAR). Return on Equity (ROE) was used as the moderating variable. The results indicate that neither environmental performance nor disclosure has a statistically significant direct effect on market performance. However, financial performance was found to significantly moderate the relationship between environmental performance and market performance, suggesting that companies with higher ROE can better leverage environmental initiatives to influence investor perceptions. In contrast, financial performance did not moderate the effect of environmental disclosure on market performance, implying that investors may respond more directly to environmental transparency rather than being influenced by financial condition. The findings support signaling and legitimacy theories while highlighting the need for more detailed environmental disclosures. Limitations include the narrow sample and inconsistencies in disclosure timing. Future research should consider larger samples, external market factors, and alternative performance indicators to further explore the nexus between sustainability and financial outcomes.