Corporate Diversification and Financial Performance of Listed Firms in Kenya: Does Firm Size Matter?

Abstract

Purpose: The study tested the hypothesis about the relationship between corporate diversification and financial performance. Moreover, moderating effect of firm size on the relationship between corporate diversification and financial performance of listed firms at Nairobi securities exchange (NSE) in Kenya was tested. Methodology/Approach/Design: The study was informed by market power and resource-based view (RBV) theories. To test the hypotheses, secondary panel data were collected from 35 listed firms at NSE from 2003 to 2017. Results: From panel regression analysis output, there was a significant positive (β = 2.225, p value = .000 < .05) relationship between corporate diversification and financial performance. Furthermore, firm size had a negative and significant (β = -.155, p value = .031<.05) moderating effect in the relationship between corporate diversification and financial performance. Practical Implications: The study thus concluded that firm size had a buffering effect in the link between corporate diversification and the financial performance of listed firms in Kenya. The findings of the study could be relevant to policymakers in drafting policies that affect diversification strategies of firms. For further research, the study recommended an increase of scope, other measurement approaches, analysis of corporate diversification from different perspectives other than product, and controlling for board characteristics. Originality/Value: The study while controlling the age of the firm tested the moderation effect of firm size in the relationship between corporate diversification and financial performance.