Determinants of voluntary disclosure in Tunisian bank’s reports

Abstract

Disclosure and bank transparency are currently of crucial importance with regard to the adaptation of regulatory tools (Basle II) to enhance the stability of the banking sector. Voluntary disclosure in banking firms can improve the transparency of market transaction and forcing bankers to reduce the risk taking.

The paper aims to examine the determinants of voluntary disclosures of listed banks in Tunisia. Using Prais-winsten regression model to test the determinants of the level of voluntary disclosure, on a sample based on 10 banks observations during the period 2000-2011. Results show that higher board size, blockholder ownership and state ownership is associated with decreased disclosure. However, proportion of independent directors, CEO duality and auditors’ reputation are not related to banks’ voluntary disclosure. Moreover, an increase in foreign ownership and bank performance increases corporate disclosure. The paper also finds that larger banks had greater disclosure.

This paper provides evidence for Tunisian regulators to improve corporate governance and optimize ownership structure. Distinct from prior empirical research based on disclosure behavior in developed markets, this study examines the determinants of voluntary disclosures of listed banks in Tunisia.

Keywords: Voluntary disclosure, Banks, Tunisia, Corporate ownership, Boards of directors