Determinants of working capital management for emerging markets firms: evidence from the MENA region

Abstract

PurposeThis study examines the impact of firm-specific and macroeconomic factors on the working capital behavior of firms listed in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region.Design/methodology/approachThis study is based on a panel data analysis of 687 firms listed on 11 MENA markets, carried out using the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach.FindingsThe results of this study reveal that profitable firms with high levels of operating cash flows adopt a conservative working capital management. Young firms with rapid growth rates, highly leveraged firms and firms with large investments in fixed assets have higher liquidity needs, which explains their tendency to pursue aggressive working capital strategies. Similarly, large firms exercise their bargaining power over their clients and suppliers to implement an aggressive approach of working capital management. Finally, firms do not have the luxury to decide how working capital should be managed when they are subject to outside macroeconomic forces that affect their stakeholders as well.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study can help managers adopt efficient practices and identify optimal working capital levels. Firms in the MENA region maintain excess reserves of cash, which causes under-investment and inefficient allocation of resources in the economy. Improving working capital management practices can allow firms to regain operational efficiency, enhance financial performance and support economic growth.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, this study investigates this topic in MENA emerging markets and contributes to enriching the existing corporate finance literature in emerging markets.