EFFECTS OF AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT SERVICES FEES ON CORPORATE PERFORMANCE OF FIRMS LISTED IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: The main purpose of this study is to examine the effects of the provision of audit and non-audit services jointly by the same audit firm on the corporate performance of firms in the capital market of Pakistan. Methodology: This study uses hand-collected secondary data taken from firms' financial statements, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for 2012-2016. Panel data analysis techniques are employed using E-views statistical software. Main Findings: we find a negative relation between audit and non-audit services fees with the firm performance. It is also documented that the appropriate amount of the NAS fee exceeds the amount of the audit fee received by the same auditor in the same assignment. Application of the Study: This study has vital implications from both theoretical as well as practical perspectives. It adds a significant aspect of audit and non-audit services provided in the context of Pakistan to the existing body of knowledge/literature. This study also implies the bifurcation of audit services provision and its serious implications on the corporate sector of Pakistan. These results thus, signify its implications for regulators as well as standard setters in Pakistan. Novelty/Originality of this Study: Various studies covering the audit aspect have been conducted in Pakistan. However, this is a unique study covering the multi-facet dimensions of audit, i.e., audit and non-audit services provision by the same audit firm and its effects/implications on corporate performance in Pakistan.