Title: A mixed methods approach to studying asset replacement decisions

Authors: Nattawoot Koowattanatianchai; Michael B. Charles

Addresses: Finance Department, Kasetsart Business School, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Rd, Ladyaow Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand ' Southern Cross Business School, Southern Cross University, Locked Mail Bag 4, Coolangatta, Queensland, 4225, Australia

Abstract: Research on taxation policy has traditionally been undertaken using quantitative methods, although it is increasingly obvious that such work cannot take place in a contextual vacuum. The use of taxation policy to encourage innovation in the Australian rail freight industry was assessed via a quantitative model, but the results were contrasted with interview data gleaned from industry decision makers. While the quantitative model predicted that acceleration depreciation schedules would encourage innovation, a variety of contextual and institutional factors, as indicated by industry decision makers, were found to limit investment. Finally, a focus group was used to test the validity of both aspects of the research. The study represents a case in point for using a mixed methods approach in finance research.

Keywords: finance research; accelerated depreciation; tax policy; investment; mixed methods approach; asset replacement decisions; innovation; Australia; rail freight industry; taxation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBIR.2015.071596

International Journal of Business Innovation and Research, 2015 Vol.9 No.5, pp.544 - 567

Received: 13 Aug 2013
Accepted: 22 Nov 2013
Published online: 04 Sep 2015 *

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