The Effect of Cost Stickiness on Financial Reporting Quality: The Moderating Role of Financial Constraints

Objectives: This study examines the impact of cost stickiness on financial reporting quality, considering the moderating role of financial constraints. By investigating this relationship, the research aims to highlight how financial constraints can exacerbate the adverse effects of cost stickiness on financial reporting quality. Methodology/Design/Approach: The study employs a causal-correlational research design. The statistical population consists of firms listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange, from which 131 companies were selected using the systematic elimination sampling method. The study covers the period from 2014 to 2023. Financial reporting quality was measured using the modified Jones model, cost stickiness was assessed based on operating costs, and financial constraints were evaluated using the Kaplan and Zingales model. The research hypotheses were tested using multivariate regression analysis. Findings: The results indicate that cost stickiness negatively affects financial reporting quality. While financial constraints alone do not significantly impact financial reporting quality, their interaction with cost stickiness intensifies the negative effect. In other words, financial constraints amplify the adverse relationship between cost stickiness and financial reporting quality. Innovation: This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the interplay between cost stickiness, financial constraints, and financial reporting quality in an emerging market context. The findings offer valuable insights for firms seeking to enhance financial reporting transparency by managing cost behavior and financial constraints effectively.