articleBusiness Ethics the Environment & ResponsibilityJan 5, 2026Closed access

When More Isn't Better: The Curvilinear Effects of ESG on Firm Performance

Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology · Sichuan University · +3 more institutions

Indexed incrossref

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examines the non‐linear effects of ESG performance on firm value in Chinese A‐share listed firms from 2009 to 2023, addressing a gap in emerging‐market ESG research that often assumes a linear, universally positive relationship. Using 29,439 firm‐year observations and performance measures including Tobin's Q, ROA, and ROE, the study applies two‐way fixed‐effect, Lind‐Mehlum U ‐tests, and robustness checks with alternative ESG ratings (Bloomberg and Huazheng) and by excluding extreme market shocks (the 2015 stock market crash and COVID‐19). The findings reveal a robust inverted U‐shaped relationship, demonstrating that moderate ESG engagement enhances firm performance, whereas excessive ESG…

No related works found for this paper.