Value, Survival, and the Evolution of Firm Organizational Structure
Date
2005-08
Authors
Borghesi, Richard A.
Houston, Joel
Naranjo, Andy
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
We examine corporate product diversification as a dynamic
process. Consistent with prior research, we find that the average diversification discount is about 8% when using the standard value-multiple approach. However, we find that a significant portion of the observed diversification discount arises from benchmark comparisons of value ratios of mature firms (which are more likely to have low value multiples and to be diversified) with those of very young firms (which are more likely to have extremely high value multiples and to be focused). The magnitude of the diversification discount falls significantly when we control for firm age. We also show that diversification reduces the mortality rate of firms, and we provide evidence that mature firms pursue diversification strategies in part as a means to exit stagnant business segments in favor of industries that are more highly valued. Our results suggest that diversification can be an optimal firm evolutionary response to external pressures.
Description
Research Enhancement Program Final Report
Keywords
organizational value, organizational survival, organizational evolution, firms, organizational structure
Citation
Borghesi, R. A. (2005). <i>Value, survival, and the evolution of firm organizational structure</i>. Research Enhancement Program, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX.