The Impact of ESG on the Financial Performance of Listed Companies: Empirical Analysis Based on A-share Listed Companies

Abstract

As China’s ecological civilization advances, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has emerged as a focal point for market participants and investors. Based on the data of Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies from 2014 to 2022 and Bloomberg ESG score, this paper explores the impact of ESG performance on corporate value and its mechanism through multiple regression analysis. The results indicate that an enhancement in ESG performance significantly boosts the financial performance of listed companies, particularly in non-polluting industries, enterprises with low information transparency, and foreign-controlled enterprises. In response to these conclusions, the article makes recommendations for policy formulation and business management aimed at promoting sustainable development of enterprises, enhancing market competitiveness, and responding to the growing concern of investors about ESG.