Equity offerings abroad and the adoption of IFRS: a test of the capital markets liability of foreignness

Abstract

We examine how the reduction in information asymmetry brought about by the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) affects the adverse selection costs of issuing equity at home and abroad. In particular, we examine whether there has been a reduction in the costs of raising equity in foreign markets- the capital markets liability of foreignness (CMLOF). Consistent with the view that mandatory IFRS adoption reduces information asymmetry, we find an increase in equity issues following IFRS adoption. In addition, we find an increase in the probability of firms issuing equity (and in the amount of equity raised) in foreign markets following IFRS adoption, suggesting a reduction in CMLOF costs. These results are more pronounced for smaller firms, with lower analyst coverage, and for firms with more need of external finance. Finally, we find lower adverse reaction to the announcement of equity offerings in foreign markets following IFRS adoption.