Information quality, human and environmental capital: comparative effects on financial performance in the energy sector of developed and developing countries

Abstract

Purpose- The present work aims to examine the human capital, and environmental and informational factors impact on financial performance in a sample of 169 multinational companies in the energy sector between 2016 and 2022.

Design/methodology/approach- This study employs random-effects generalized least squares (RE GLS) estimation with year and industry-fixed effects to analyses the determinants of the Gross Profit Margin.

Findings- The findings confirm that internal factors such as human resource management, compliance with best environmental practices, and high-quality financial reporting are critical value and financial success drivers in the energy sector. Moreover, the results indicate that institutional differences between developed and developing countries remain substantial, with the financial impact of environmental performance being notably weaker in emerging economies.

Originality-This study uniquely integrates human capital, environmental capital, and information quality into a single analytical model and thereby capturing their synergistic and conflicting interactions. Moreover, it employs a global and large multinational dataset, offering robust, generalizable insights across diverse institutional and cultural contexts, unlike prior work with narrower, often single-country scopes. The study also differentiates results between developed and emerging markets, enhancing its practical relevance.

Practical implications- Managers should prioritize investments in employee development, adopt sustainable practices, and ensure high-quality financial and non-financial reporting to achieve long-term profitability. Policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders should also recognize the value of these practices in promoting sustainable growth and resilience in an increasingly complex and scrutinized industry.