Information asymmetry and accounting conservatism: Does analyst coverage moderate the results?

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of information asymmetry on accounting conservatism moderated by analyst coverage. Net assets are measured to determine accounting conservatism. Information asymmetry is measured with the bid-ask spread, whereas analyst coverage is calculated using a proxy of analyst following. The sample in this research consists of manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2010 to 2014. Data are gathered using purposive random sampling method, and the financial statement reports of 124 companies are selected. Regression test results are consistent with the hypothesis, that is, a positive correlation exists between information asymmetry and accounting conservatism. Additional evidence shows that the level of analyst coverage affects the relationship between information asymmetry and accounting conservatism. A high level of analyst coverage reduces the level of information asymmetry and decreases that of conservatism in financial statements.