Abstract

This study examines the impact of corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices on corporate stock prices, with a particular focus on the mediating role of board gender diversity (BGD). Using a dataset of 9543 firm-year observations from non-financial companies across 15 countries in the S&P 1200 global index between 2012 and 2020, the analysis evaluates ESG performance through the Refinitiv ESG Combined Score, which incorporates disclosures across ESG pillars and an overlay for ESG controversies. BGD is measured as the proportion of female directors on corporate boards, while stock prices are assessed using annual closing prices. The findings reveal a positive relationship between ESG performance and corporate stock prices, both at the aggregate level and across individual ESG pillars. Additionally, BGD is shown to enhance stock price performance and serves as a mediator in the ESG-stock price relationship. These results highlight the critical role of board diversity in amplifying the financial benefits of ESG practices. Further analysis suggests that the value relevance of ESG performance varies across institutional settings, with stronger effects observed in emerging/offshore markets and in the North American and European regions. The study offers important implications for companies, investors, and policymakers, emphasizing the need to integrate ESG strategies and promote gender diversity at the board level to enhance corporate valuation and long-term sustainability.

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