Corporate Governance Research Paper Topics

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This guide provides a comprehensive list of corporate governance research paper topics divided into 10 categories, expert advice on choosing a relevant and feasible topic, and tips on how to write a successful corporate governance research paper. Corporate governance is a critical aspect of modern business that has a significant impact on the success of organizations. As a result, students who study corporate governance are often assigned to write research papers that explore various aspects of the topic. In addition, iResearchNet offers custom writing services that provide expert degree-holding writers, customized solutions, and timely delivery. By using this guide and iResearchNet’s writing services, students can ensure that their corporate governance research papers meet the highest academic standards.

Corporate Governance Research

Corporate governance is a critical aspect of modern business that encompasses the practices, processes, and systems by which organizations are directed, controlled, and managed. As a result, students who study corporate governance are often assigned to write research papers that explore various aspects of the topic, ranging from board structures and executive compensation to shareholder activism and stakeholder engagement.

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Corporate Governance Research Paper Topics

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive list of corporate governance research paper topics divided into 10 categories, expert advice on how to choose a relevant and feasible topic, and tips on how to write a successful corporate governance research paper. In addition, we offer custom writing services through iResearchNet that provide expert degree-holding writers, customized solutions, and timely delivery.

By using this guide and iResearchNet’s writing services, students can ensure that their corporate governance research papers are well-researched, well-written, and meet the highest academic standards.

100 Corporate Governance Research Paper Topics

Corporate governance is a broad and complex topic that encompasses a wide range of issues and challenges facing modern organizations. To help students choose a relevant and feasible corporate governance research paper topic, we have divided our comprehensive list of topics into 10 categories, each with 10 topics.

Board of Directors

  • Board independence and effectiveness
  • Board diversity and gender equality
  • CEO duality and separation of roles
  • Board composition and characteristics
  • Board oversight and accountability
  • Board nominations and elections
  • Board leadership and culture
  • Board committees and responsibilities
  • Board evaluation and performance
  • Board compensation and incentives

Executive Compensation

  • Executive pay and performance
  • Executive pay and firm performance
  • Pay-for-performance and pay-for-skill
  • CEO pay ratios and pay equity
  • Stock options and equity-based compensation
  • Executive severance and golden parachutes
  • Executive perquisites and benefits
  • Executive retirement and pensions
  • Say-on-pay and shareholder activism
  • Institutional investors and executive pay

Shareholder Activism

  • Shareholder rights and activism
  • Shareholder proposals and proxy access
  • Shareholder engagement and communication
  • Shareholder activism and corporate social responsibility
  • Institutional investors and shareholder activism
  • Hedge funds and shareholder activism
  • Shareholder activism and executive compensation
  • Shareholder activism and board independence
  • Shareholder activism and corporate governance reforms
  • Shareholder activism and CEO turnover

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Stakeholder identification and analysis
  • Stakeholder mapping and prioritization
  • Stakeholder communication and dialogue
  • Stakeholder participation and empowerment
  • Stakeholder consultation and feedback
  • Stakeholder engagement and corporate social responsibility
  • Stakeholder engagement and sustainability reporting
  • Stakeholder engagement and risk management
  • Stakeholder engagement and corporate reputation
  • Stakeholder engagement and value creation

Corporate Culture and Ethics

  • Corporate values and ethics
  • Ethical leadership and decision-making
  • Corporate social responsibility and sustainability
  • Business ethics and compliance
  • Corporate citizenship and philanthropy
  • Corporate culture and values alignment
  • Corporate culture and employee behavior
  • Corporate culture and organizational performance
  • Corporate culture and innovation
  • Corporate culture and risk management

Board-Shareholder Relations

  • Board-shareholder communication and engagement
  • Board-shareholder conflict resolution
  • Board-shareholder cooperation and collaboration
  • Board-shareholder activism and response
  • Board-shareholder rights and responsibilities
  • Board-shareholder agreements and charters
  • Board-shareholder engagement and corporate social responsibility
  • Board-shareholder relations and institutional investors
  • Board-shareholder relations and minority shareholders
  • Board-shareholder relations and corporate governance reforms

Regulatory and Legal Environment

  • Corporate governance regulations and compliance
  • Corporate governance laws and policies
  • Corporate governance codes and standards
  • Corporate governance enforcement and penalties
  • Corporate governance and public policy
  • Corporate governance and the role of regulators
  • Corporate governance and antitrust laws
  • Corporate governance and securities laws
  • Corporate governance and data privacy laws
  • Corporate governance and intellectual property laws

Risk Management and Disclosure

  • Enterprise risk management and oversight
  • Risk management and strategic planning
  • Risk management and financial reporting
  • Risk management and sustainability reporting
  • Risk management and cybersecurity
  • Risk management and climate change
  • Risk management and supply chain management
  • Risk management and crisis management
  • Risk management and stakeholder engagement
  • Risk management and disclosure requirements

International Corporate Governance

  • Cross-border mergers and acquisitions and corporate governance
  • Corporate governance and foreign direct investment
  • Corporate governance and multinational corporations
  • Corporate governance and global supply chains
  • Corporate governance and global financial markets
  • Corporate governance and emerging markets
  • Corporate governance and corruption
  • Corporate governance and cultural diversity
  • Corporate governance and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
  • Corporate governance and global challenges

Corporate Governance Reform

  • Corporate governance failures and scandals
  • Corporate governance reforms and their impact
  • Corporate governance and shareholder activism
  • Corporate governance and executive compensation reform
  • Corporate governance and board independence reform
  • Corporate governance and stakeholder engagement reform
  • Corporate governance and diversity and inclusion reform
  • Corporate governance and sustainability reform
  • Corporate governance and regulatory reform
  • Corporate governance and future trends

By organizing the corporate governance research paper topics into categories, students can easily identify areas of interest and develop research questions that align with their academic goals and interests. The categories cover a wide range of issues and challenges facing modern organizations, from board structures and executive compensation to stakeholder engagement and international corporate governance.

Choosing a Topic in Corporate Governance

Choosing a relevant and feasible corporate governance research paper topic is critical for success in academia. The following are expert tips on how to choose a corporate governance research paper topic:

  • Consider your interests : Choose a topic that you are interested in and passionate about. Your enthusiasm for the topic will help you stay motivated throughout the research and writing process.
  • Identify a research gap : Choose a topic that fills a research gap or addresses a new research question. This will help you contribute new knowledge to the field and make a meaningful contribution to academic scholarship.
  • Consult with your instructor : Discuss potential topics with your instructor and seek feedback on your ideas. Your instructor can help you refine your research question and suggest relevant literature and sources.
  • Conduct a literature review : Conduct a literature review to identify gaps and areas of interest within the field. This will help you develop research questions and identify key concepts and themes.
  • Consider feasibility : Choose a topic that is feasible given the time and resources available to you. Be realistic about your research scope and the data sources that are available to you.
  • Stay current : Choose a topic that is current and relevant to the field. This will help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in corporate governance.
  • Identify a manageable scope : Choose a topic that has a manageable scope. Narrow down your research question to a specific aspect of corporate governance that can be explored in-depth within the scope of a research paper.
  • Brainstorm potential topics : Brainstorm a list of potential topics based on your interests, literature review, and discussions with your instructor. Evaluate each topic based on its relevance, feasibility, and potential impact.

By following these expert tips, students can choose a relevant and feasible corporate governance research paper topic that aligns with their academic interests and goals. In the next section, we provide tips on how to write a successful corporate governance research paper.

How to Write a Corporate Governance Research Paper

Writing a successful corporate governance research paper requires careful planning and attention to detail. The following are expert tips on how to write a corporate governance research paper:

  • Develop a clear research question : Develop a clear and concise research question that addresses a gap or new research question within the field of corporate governance. The research question should be specific and focused to ensure a manageable scope for the research paper.
  • Conduct a literature review : Conduct a comprehensive literature review to identify key concepts and themes within the field of corporate governance. This will help you develop a theoretical framework and provide a foundation for your research paper.
  • Select appropriate research methods : Select appropriate research methods that align with your research question and objectives. This may include qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research approaches.
  • Collect and analyze data : Collect and analyze data using appropriate research methods. This may include conducting interviews, surveys, or analyzing financial data. Ensure that your data collection and analysis is rigorous and aligns with the research question and objectives.
  • Develop a clear and structured outline : Develop a clear and structured outline for your research paper. This will help you organize your thoughts and ideas and ensure a logical flow of information.
  • Write a clear and concise introduction : Write a clear and concise introduction that provides background information and context for the research question. The introduction should also clearly state the research question and objectives.
  • Develop a comprehensive literature review : Develop a comprehensive literature review that provides a theoretical framework for the research question. The literature review should be organized thematically and include key concepts and themes within the field of corporate governance.
  • Analyze and interpret findings : Analyze and interpret the findings of the research. Ensure that your analysis and interpretation aligns with the research question and objectives.
  • Develop a clear and concise conclusion : Develop a clear and concise conclusion that summarizes the key findings of the research and provides implications for practice and future research.
  • Ensure proper formatting and citation : Ensure that your research paper is properly formatted and cited. Follow the guidelines of the citation style required by your instructor, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.

By following these expert tips, students can write a successful corporate governance research paper that contributes new knowledge to the field and makes a meaningful contribution to academic scholarship. In the next section, we provide information on how students can benefit from the iResearchNet writing services for corporate governance research papers.

iResearchNet Writing Services for Corporate Governance Research Papers

At iResearchNet, we understand the importance of producing high-quality corporate governance research papers that meet the academic standards of students. Our team of expert degree-holding writers can help students produce well-written and well-researched corporate governance research papers that meet the requirements of their instructors. Our writing services include the following features:

  • Expert degree-holding writers : Our writers are experts in corporate governance with advanced degrees in the field. They have the knowledge and expertise to produce high-quality research papers that meet the academic standards of students.
  • Custom written works : We provide custom written works that are tailored to the specific needs and requirements of each student. Our writers work closely with students to ensure that their research papers meet their expectations and academic standards.
  • In-depth research : Our writers conduct in-depth research to ensure that the research papers are well-supported with relevant and reliable sources.
  • Custom formatting : Our writers are well-versed in various citation styles, including APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, and Harvard. We ensure that the research papers are properly formatted and cited according to the required citation style.
  • Top quality, customized solutions : We are committed to providing top-quality and customized solutions that meet the unique needs and requirements of each student.
  • Flexible pricing : We offer flexible pricing options to ensure that our writing services are affordable for students.
  • Short deadlines : We can accommodate short deadlines of up to 3 hours for urgent assignments.
  • Timely delivery : We ensure timely delivery of research papers to ensure that students have enough time to review and submit their assignments.
  • 24/7 support : We provide 24/7 support to answer any questions or concerns that students may have about their research papers.
  • Absolute Privacy : We prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. We ensure that all client information is kept confidential and secure.
  • Easy order tracking : We provide easy order tracking to enable students to track the progress of their research papers.
  • Money-back guarantee : We offer a money-back guarantee to ensure that students are satisfied with the quality of their research papers.

By using iResearchNet writing services, students can benefit from the expertise of our writers and produce high-quality corporate governance research papers that meet the academic standards of their instructors.

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Writing a successful corporate governance research paper requires careful planning and attention to detail. By choosing a relevant and feasible research paper topic, conducting a comprehensive literature review, and following the tips outlined in this article, students can produce high-quality research papers that make meaningful contributions to the field of corporate governance. Additionally, iResearchNet writing services offer students a valuable resource for producing high-quality research papers that meet the academic standards of their instructors. With expert degree-holding writers, customized solutions, and a range of support features, iResearchNet can help students achieve academic success and excel in their studies. Contact us today to learn more about our writing services and how we can assist you in your corporate governance research paper writing needs.

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research paper topics for corporate governance

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CGRI Journal Articles

Research papers authored by Stanford GSB faculty and published in leading peer-reviewed journals that provide rigorous empirical analysis of concepts and theories in corporate governance.

Shall We Talk? The Role of Interactive Investor Platforms in Corporate Communication

Between 2010 and 2017, Chinese investors used an investor interactive platform (IIP) to ask public companies around 2.5 million questions, the vast majority of which received a reply within two weeks. We analyze these IIP dialogues…

How Much Should We Trust Staggered Difference-In-Differences Estimates?

We explain when and how staggered difference-in-differences regression estimators, commonly applied to assess the impact of policy changes, are biased. These biases are likely to be relevant for a large portion of research settings in finance,…

Political Connections and the Informativeness of Insider Trades

We analyze the trading of corporate insiders at leading financial institutions during the 2007 to 2009 financial crisis. We find strong evidence of a relation between political connections and informed trading during the period in which Troubled…

Long-Term Economic Consequences of Hedge Fund Activist Interventions

We examine the long-term effects of interventions by activist hedge funds. Research documents positive equal-weighted long-term returns and operating performance improvements following activist interventions, and typically conclude that activism…

Causal Inference in Accounting Research

This paper examines the approaches accounting researchers adopt to draw causal inferences using observational (or nonexperimental) data. The vast majority of accounting research papers draw causal inferences notwithstanding the well-known…

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A Guide to the Big Ideas and Debates in Corporate Governance

by Lynn S. Paine and Suraj Srinivasan

research paper topics for corporate governance

Summary .   

Corporate governance has become a topic of broad public interest as the power of institutional investors has increased and the impact of corporations on society has grown. Yet ideas about how corporations should be governed vary widely. People disagree, for example, on such basic matters as the purpose of the corporation, the role of corporate boards of directors, the rights of shareholders, and the proper way to measure corporate performance. The issue of whose interests should be considered in corporate decision making is particularly contentious, with some authorities giving primacy to shareholders’ interest in maximizing their financial returns and others arguing that shareholders’ other interests — in corporate strategy, executive compensation, and environmental policies, for example — and the interests of other parties must be respected as well.

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Home > Books > Customer Relationship Management - Contemporary Concepts and Strategies

Introductory Chapter: Corporate Governance – A Modern Perspective

Submitted: 16 January 2024 Reviewed: 30 January 2024 Published: 30 October 2024

DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.114251

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Author Information

Tahir mumtaz awan *.

  • Department of Management Sciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan
  • School of Business Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
  • The Center of Ethnology and Anthropology, Hunan Normal University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, Peoples Republic of China

*Address all correspondence to: [email protected]

1. Introduction to corporate governance

In the early 2000s, the business world witnessed a seismic shift in the realm of corporate governance, epitomized by the fall of the Enron Corporation. Once a titan in the energy sector, Enron’s collapse sent shockwaves across global markets, unveiling a startling tale of fraudulent accounting practices and corporate malfeasance. This scandal, marked by its dramatic unraveling, showcased the catastrophic consequences of poor corporate governance. Enron’s deceptive financial reporting, facilitated by a complicit board of directors and a lack of transparency, not only led to its own downfall but also eroded public trust in corporate institutions at large. The Enron debacle became a textbook example underscoring the necessity of robust, ethical governance in the corporate world. The evolution of corporate governance has been a journey marked by such significant milestones. Initially, the concept centered primarily on financial accountability, particularly toward shareholders [ 1 ]. This paradigm stemmed from the early twentieth-century business landscape, dominated by family-owned firms where owners and managers were often the same individuals. However, as corporations grew and ownership became more dispersed, a gap emerged between owners and managers, leading to a need for more structured governance mechanisms.

Global trends have also significantly influenced corporate governance practices, necessitating adaptability and foresight from businesses worldwide. The increasing emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability has led companies to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their business strategies. Further, technological advancements are another key trend reshaping corporate governance. Technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) are not only transforming business operations but also how companies are governed [ 2 , 3 ]. Blockchain technology, for instance, offers unprecedented transparency and security in transactions, which can significantly enhance trust in shareholder voting processes and financial reporting. Moreover, the global business environment has become increasingly interconnected, necessitating a global perspective in governance practices. This globalization has led to the harmonization of corporate governance standards across borders, as evidenced by the widespread adoption of the OECD Principles of Corporate Governance by many countries. Such harmonization ensures that multinational corporations maintain consistent governance standards in different jurisdictions, fostering global trust and cooperation [ 4 , 5 ]. Corporate governance is a fundamental framework that regulates how companies are directed and controlled. It encompasses a set of principles, practices, and processes designed to ensure that a company operates efficiently, ethically, and in the best interests of its stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, customers, and the wider community.

2. Defining the concept of corporate governance

At its core, corporate governance is about achieving a balance between the interests of a company’s various stakeholders, particularly its shareholders and management. It aims to prevent conflicts of interest and promote transparency, accountability, and responsible decision-making within the organization. One crucial aspect of corporate governance is the relationship between a company’s board of directors and its management team. The board of directors, elected by shareholders, is responsible for overseeing the company’s strategic direction, while the management team is responsible for implementing that strategy on a day-to-day basis [ 5 ]. This separation of ownership (shareholders) and control (management) is a defining characteristic of modern corporations.

3. Elements and principles of corporate governance

To understand corporate governance fully, it is essential to explore its key elements and principles:

Shareholder Rights and Equitable Treatment: Shareholders are the owners of the company, and their rights must be respected. This includes the right to vote, receive dividends, and access relevant information. Equitable treatment ensures that all shareholders are treated fairly, regardless of their size or influence.

Board of Directors: The board plays a pivotal role in corporate governance. It is responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction, appointing and overseeing the management team, and ensuring that the company operates ethically and responsibly.

Transparency and Disclosure: Companies must provide timely and accurate information about their financial performance, operations, and risks to shareholders and the public. Transparency builds trust and confidence among stakeholders.

Accountability and Responsibility: Management is accountable to the board, which, in turn, is accountable to shareholders. Corporate leaders must act in the best interests of the company and its stakeholders, making responsible decisions that align with the company’s long-term objectives.

Ethical Behavior and Corporate Citizenship: Companies should operate ethically, complying with laws and regulations while also considering broader social and environmental responsibilities.

Risk Management: Effective risk management is crucial for corporate governance. Companies must identify, assess, and manage risks to ensure their long-term sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement : Beyond shareholders, companies should consider the interests of other stakeholders, such as employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which they operate.

4. The modern business landscape

In the tapestry of today’s society, corporations stand as central figures, deeply intertwined with the economy, communities, and a broad range of stakeholders. Their impact stretches far beyond simple financial metrics, influencing social norms, environmental sustainability, and technological advancements. As businesses navigate through an ever-changing landscape, corporate governance has become a cornerstone in ensuring ethical, sustainable, and efficient operations. The evolution of corporate governance mirrors the shifts in the business environment [ 6 ]. Traditionally, governance focused primarily on shareholder interests. However, in recent years, this view has expanded to include a wider range of stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the community at large. This change is partly a response to the growing awareness of corporate social responsibility and the realization that long-term success is tied to more than just financial performance.

Globalization and technological advancements have further reshaped the business world. The rise of digital technologies, for instance, has created new opportunities and challenges, requiring corporations to adapt their governance structures. Companies like Apple and Amazon, which have effectively harnessed technology and globalization, serve as prime examples of how dynamic governance can facilitate unprecedented growth and market dominance. Regulatory changes also play a crucial role [ 1 , 7 ]. Post-2008 financial crisis reforms, such as the Dodd-Frank Act in the United States, have brought about more stringent rules, compelling companies to enhance transparency and accountability. Such regulatory environments underscore the necessity for robust governance practices, enabling organizations to not only comply with legal requirements but also to gain the trust of stakeholders and the public. Effective governance is pivotal in guiding organizations through challenges and uncertainties. Good governance practices, such as clear decision-making processes, accountability, and transparency, are crucial for managing risks and maintaining corporate integrity. As businesses confront complex issues like climate change, social inequality, and ethical conduct, strong governance frameworks can provide the strategic direction and ethical compass necessary for sustainable growth.

5. Challenges and evolutions

Corporate governance, in its contemporary form, navigates a landscape rife with multifaceted challenges, each demanding innovative and nuanced responses. Among these challenges, cybersecurity stands out as a critical concern in the digital era. High-profile incidents, such as the Facebook data breach, have shed light on the severe vulnerabilities and consequences that lapses in governance can precipitate. These breaches not only lead to immediate financial losses but also long-term damage to reputation and stakeholder trust. In response, there is a growing emphasis on incorporating robust cybersecurity measures into governance frameworks, making it an integral part of risk management strategies. Furthermore, sustainability has ascended to the forefront of corporate governance concerns. Environmental and social consciousness is no longer peripheral but central to corporate strategy [ 8 ]. Companies like Unilever and Patagonia are trailblazers in this regard, embedding sustainability into their core business philosophies. This shift is not just about corporate image but is also driven by the recognition that long-term business success is inextricably linked to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. These companies demonstrate how sustainable practices can be aligned with profitability, challenging the traditional view that environmental and social goals are secondary to financial objectives [ 9 ].

The emphasis on diversity and inclusion reflects another significant evolution in corporate governance. A diverse array of perspectives in leadership and workforce is increasingly seen as a key driver of innovation and resilience. The push for diversity is not just about gender but also encompasses race, ethnicity, age, and different life experiences. Initiatives like the Women on Boards movement, aiming to increase female representation in boardrooms, have gained considerable momentum. These initiatives are supported by a growing body of research suggesting that diverse boards and leadership teams can lead to better decision-making and financial performance [ 5 , 10 ]. The approach to corporate governance also varies widely across different regions, influenced by cultural, legal, and economic factors. In countries like Japan and South Korea, governance structures are often marked by a focus on consensus and long-term relationships, reflecting deeper cultural inclinations toward collectivism. This stands in contrast to the more individualistic and shareholder-focused approaches prevalent in the United States and Europe. These regional differences highlight the need for a flexible and context-specific approach to corporate governance.

Global standards and initiatives, such as the OECD Principles of Corporate Governance, play a crucial role in shaping these varied practices. They offer a blueprint for effective governance that balances the interests of various stakeholders while promoting transparency and accountability. These principles are not just theoretical constructs but have been instrumental in guiding reforms and shaping governance practices worldwide. They demonstrate the growing recognition of the need for a cohesive global approach to governance, one that can adapt to the unique challenges and dynamics of the modern business world. The current state of corporate governance is one of dynamic evolutions, responding to the challenges posed by digitalization, environmental concerns, and the increasing importance of diversity and inclusion. As governance practices continue to evolve, they must remain agile and responsive, capable of addressing the unique demands of an ever-changing global business environment [ 10 ].

6. Why corporate governance matters

Implementing effective corporate governance holds immense advantages, key among them being enhanced financial performance. Good governance structures enable better decision-making and risk management, factors that directly contribute to a company’s financial health. This robust performance fosters investor confidence and strengthens stakeholder trust, both of which are essential for sustained success in a competitive business environment. For instance, Johnson & Johnson’s enduring market presence and financial stability can be attributed in part to its strong governance principles, which have fostered a reputation for reliability and ethical conduct. Additionally, good corporate governance promotes transparency and accountability, which are vital in today’s market where information is readily available and public scrutiny is high [ 11 ]. Companies like Google and Salesforce have thrived in part due to their transparent business practices and accountable leadership. This transparency not only builds trust with stakeholders but also ensures that potential issues are identified and addressed promptly, thereby averting crises.

Another significant advantage of effective governance is the ability to attract and retain top talent. A company known for its ethical practices and good governance is more likely to attract employees who value integrity and accountability. This, in turn, fosters a positive corporate culture that contributes to employee satisfaction and retention. For example, Adobe has been recognized for its corporate culture, which is deeply rooted in strong governance and ethical practices, contributing to its high employee retention rates and consistent innovation. On the other hand, poor corporate governance can lead to severe negative outcomes, as evidenced by numerous corporate scandals. The downfall of Enron, one of the most infamous corporate collapses, stemmed largely from governance failures such as fraudulent accounting practices and lack of oversight. This not only led to the company’s financial ruin but also caused significant harm to its employees, shareholders, and the wider economy [ 12 ].

More recently, Wells Fargo faced a crisis following revelations of fraudulent customer account practices, highlighting the consequences of poor internal controls and unethical behavior. Such governance failures damage the company’s reputation, erode public trust, and can lead to significant legal and financial penalties. Moreover, these incidents often result in a loss of consumer and investor confidence, which can have long-lasting effects on the company’s market position and financial stability. The importance of corporate governance in today’s business landscape cannot be overstated. Effective governance practices lead to improved financial performance, increased transparency and accountability, and a stronger corporate reputation, all of which are crucial for long-term success. Conversely, neglecting governance can result in significant financial, legal, and reputational damage. As the corporate world continues to evolve, the need for robust and adaptable governance frameworks becomes increasingly critical [ 13 ].

Thus, as corporations navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic business environment, the role of corporate governance becomes ever more critical. The challenges of cybersecurity, sustainability, and diversity demand innovative and adaptive governance approaches. Good corporate governance is no longer a luxury but a necessity, pivotal for ensuring long-term success and sustainability in today’s global economy.

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Corporate governance and sustainability: a review of the existing literature

  • Published: 03 January 2021
  • Volume 26 , pages 55–74, ( 2022 )

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research paper topics for corporate governance

  • Valeria Naciti 1 ,
  • Fabrizio Cesaroni   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-2345-6225 1 &
  • Luisa Pulejo 1  

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Over the last 2 decades, the literature on corporate governance and sustainability has increased substantially. In this study, we analyze 468 research studies published between 1999 and 2019 by employing three clustering analysis visualization techniques, namely keyword network clustering, co-citation network clustering, and overlay visualization. In addition, we provide a brief review of each cluster. We find that the number of published items that fall under our search criteria has grown over the years, having surged at various times including 2014. We identified three main thematic clusters, which we have called (1) corporate social responsibility and reporting, (2) corporate governance strategies, and (3) board composition. The weighted average years that major keywords appear in the literature published over the last 2 decades fall into a period of 4 years between 2014 and 2017. This is due to the massive increase in the number of publications on corporate governance and sustainability in recent years. By means of chronological analysis, we observe a transition from more abstract concepts—such as ‘society,’ ‘ethics,’ and ‘responsibility’—to more tangible and actionable terms such as ‘female director,’ ‘board size,’ and ‘independent director.’ Our review suggests that corporate governance and sustainability literature is evolving from quite a conceptual approach to rather more strategic and practical studies, while its theoretical roots can be traced back to a number of foundational studies in stakeholder theory, agency theory and socio-political theories of voluntary disclosure.

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Naciti, V., Cesaroni, F. & Pulejo, L. Corporate governance and sustainability: a review of the existing literature. J Manag Gov 26 , 55–74 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10997-020-09554-6

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Accepted : 26 November 2020

Published : 03 January 2021

Issue Date : March 2022

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s10997-020-09554-6

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