Keywords

investment efficiency, non-GAAP disclosure, investment, future performance, R&D, intangible-investment

Abstract

We investigate whether consistent non-GAAP reporting is associated with investment efficiency. Prior research finds a positive association between non-GAAP reporting and investment levels, concluding that it represents overinvestment. We corroborate this positive association, but additional tests are not consistent with the conclusion of inefficient overinvestment. Specifically, we explore the relation between investment and future cash flows as a proxy for the realization of investments in positive net present value projects. We find that the investments of firms that consistently report non-GAAP metrics are associated with similar or higher future cash flows than the investments of firms reporting only GAAP earnings, which is consistent with efficient investment. We observe similar associations in multiple specifications, performance horizons, and outcome variables, including future returns and earnings. Given the prevalence of non-GAAP reporting and the SEC’s ongoing concern with the consequences of non-GAAP disclosure, our analyses offer timely evidence relevant to this important discussion.

Original Publication Citation

Ahn, M., T. Christensen, R. Johnson, and M. Lewis-Western. “The Future Performance Implications of non-GAAP Motivated Investment”, Journal of Accounting and Economics.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2025

Publisher

Journal of Accounting and Economics

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Accountancy

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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