Title: Mapping research in corporate share repurchases: a bibliometric analysis

Authors: A.N. Ashitha; G. Naresh

Addresses: Department of Finance and Accounting, Indian Institute of Management Ranchi, Ranchi, 835303, India ' Department of Finance and Accounting, Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, India

Abstract: We review the 'Share Repurchases' literature using bibliometric techniques for 886 papers published between 1966 and 2022. Bibliometrix (RStudio) and VOSviewer softwares are used for the analysis. We performed co-citation analysis, keyword analysis, and thematic evolution of the topic to identify influential research networks, conceptual and intellectual structures, and research gaps in this area. A content analysis of co-cited papers identified two common themes, namely, 'Economic Rationale of Share Repurchases' and 'Impact of Share Repurchases on Payout Policies'. Major key themes that emerged are 'Shareholders' Expectations', 'Governance and Sustenance', 'Investment and Payout Policies', and 'Earnings Management'. Emerging themes like abnormal returns from buybacks, impact on cash holdings, stocks' undervaluation, market signalling, firm's long-term performance, and market timing are also suggested. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive view of buyback literature to policymakers, regulators, and researchers and guides them to relevant future research areas.

Keywords: share repurchase; earnings management; payout policy; share buybacks; corporate governance; bibliometric analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/AJFA.2024.139126

American Journal of Finance and Accounting, 2024 Vol.8 No.1, pp.1 - 27

Received: 08 Jul 2023
Accepted: 09 Jan 2024
Published online: 14 Jun 2024 *

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