Does corporate ESG disclosure enhance investor relationship management? Evidence from China

Abstract This study investigates the enhancing effect of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure on investor relations management (IRM). The better the ESG disclosure, the higher the level of IRM. furthermore, this enhancement is achieved by reducing information asymmetry, improving information dissemination efficiency, and attracting investors attention, and it is more prominent in a sound institutional environment and a concentrated shareholding structure. Moreover, institutional investors show greater receptivity to ESG‐driven IRM compared to individual investors. Finally, we indicate that IRM is enhanced by ESG disclosure, ultimately fostering high‐quality corporate development. These findings provide valuable insights for promoting the standardisation of ESG disclosure and optimising IRM practices.