Exploring Stakeholders' Perceptions of Financial Transparency in Corporate Sustainability

Abstract

Corporate finance, particularly in the context of financial transparency and sustainability, has gained increasing attention due to its impact on corporate governance and stakeholder trust. While existing research largely focuses on measurable financial outcomes, little attention has been given to the subjective experiences of stakeholders in financial decision-making processes related to sustainability. This study aims to address this gap by exploring how stakeholders' emotional and rational factors influence their perceptions of financial transparency and sustainability. Using a phenomenological approach, this research investigates the lived experiences of stakeholders involved in financial decision-making within multinational corporations. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study identifies that transparency is not merely a matter of compliance, but is deeply tied to trust and emotional responses, significantly influencing decisions related to sustainability. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how financial transparency is perceived and enacted, particularly in the context of corporate social responsibility. The study's implications suggest the need for a more nuanced approach to financial reporting that considers both rational and emotional dimensions in shaping corporate finance practices, offering a foundation for future research in the field.