Corruption’s Crossroads: Exploring Firm Performance and Auditors’ Role in Emerging Markets

This study examines the relationship between country-level corruption (proxied by the Corruption Perception Index, CPI) and firm performance (measured by Return on Assets, ROA) across 18,286 firms in the East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia regions. Additionally, the moderating effects of audit quality (proxied by auditors’ reputation) on the relationship are examined. The findings of the study indicate a positive association between corruption and ROA in high-income nations, thus providing evidence in favor of the “greasing the wheel” theory. On the other hand, a negative association is documented in the upper middle- and low-income nations, which is consistent with the “sanding the wheel” notion. Notably, audit quality has a positive moderating influence on the relationship between corruption and ROA, especially in nations with low corruption levels, reaffirming the pivotal role of reputable auditors in enhancing firm performance within these economic contexts. The results of this study have important ramifications for forming policy suggestions and enhancing governance. The findings highlight the opportunity to improve governance practices and regulations to reduce corruption and increase transparency. Policymakers can develop ways to strengthen institutional frameworks by recognizing the complex link between corruption, corporate profitability, and the function of respected auditors.