Determinants of Leverage in Ghana- Evidence from listed Manufacturing and Trading Sector Companies

Abstract

The paper examines the effect net profit, firm size, tangibility, firm growth and risk have on leverage of manufacturing and trading sector companies listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange during the period 2005 to 2014. The paper relied on published financial statements of the listed manufacturing and trading companies for the period. Using a panel regression model, the study found a significant negative relationship between firm size and leverage as well as growth and leverage. Profitability established a negative and insignificant relationship with leverage. An insignificant positive relationship was found between tangibility and leverage and an insignificant positive relationship was also found between risk and leverage. The study suggests listed manufacturing and trading companies should apply the pecking order theory in their capital structure decisions and favor internal source of funds for their financing needs.

Keywords: leverage; profitability; manufacturing and trading sector companies; Ghana Stock Exchange; financial statement