Analyzing the effect of using international accounting standards on the development of emerging capital markets

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the consequences of using international accounting standards (IAS/IFRS) for the development of capital markets located in developing countries (emerging capital markets).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct an empirical study using a sample of 38 developing countries with capital markets, starting by comparing the means of the different measures studied before and after the use of IAS/IFRS. A multivariate statistical analysis is conducted based on the estimation of a model of panel data with fixed effects.

Findings

The results show that the development of the emerging capital markets is positively and significantly associated with the use of international accounting standards.

Practical implications

The paper's findings are of interest to several different parties, primarily the national accounting standardization body, the IASB, many international organizations and international investors.

Originality/value

The paper describes an empirical study, conducted on a group of developing countries, which provides a better understanding of the potential consequences of the use of IASB standards. The paper is also a meaningful contribution to the international accounting literature, as it examines an interesting subject that has not yet been investigated.

Citation

Zeghal, D. and Mhedhbi, K. (2012), "Analyzing the effect of using international accounting standards on the development of emerging capital markets", International Journal of Accounting & Information Management, Vol. 20 No. 3, pp. 220-237. https://doi.org/10.1108/18347641211245100