Determinants of Financial Information Disclosure Online: Empirical Evidence in Portugal

Abstract

The rapid advancement of information technology, particularly the Internet, has significantly transformed communication and corporate reporting practices. The evolution of the Internet and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has enabled companies to disseminate extensive financial and non-financial information quickly and cost-effectively. Typically published on company websites, this information is accessible to users worldwide. Digital financial reporting has evolved to meet the needs of both information users and companies. The Internet is increasingly the primary channel for companies to share financial information, driven by technological advancements and the growing demand for online company data. However, the rise of technology in financial reporting raises concerns about information overload, potentially diminishing the quality and relevance of economic data. Additionally, managing the costs associated with technology, such as website development, customer relationship management systems, hardware, software, and other digital platforms, is crucial. This study aims to determine the extent of online financial information disclosure among the 150 largest Portuguese companies and identify the factors influencing this disclosure. The research methodology involves content analysis of the websites of 52 of the largest and best-performing companies operating in Portugal, as ranked by Revista Exame, using a predefined disclosure index to evaluate the degree of financial information disclosure on the Internet. The objective is to enhance understanding of the financial reporting practices adopted by major Portuguese companies and identify factors determining the level of disclosure. The results confirm that the disclosure index has an average value of 0.52147 and that there is a relationship between company size and sector of activity and the level of internet financial reporting.