When does knowledge breadth translate into corporate common prosperity?

Purpose This study aims to examine how patent knowledge breadth (PKB), as a key dimension of firms’ knowledge structure, relates to corporate common prosperity (CCP). It further investigates the moderating roles of managerial myopia (MYO), government–business connection (GBC) and corporate governance quality (CGQ). Design/methodology/approach Using nonfinancial A-share listed firms in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2012 to 2024, this study applies two-way fixed effects models to examine the relationship between PKB and CCP. CCP is measured using the composite index from the CSMAR Corporate Common Prosperity Database, while PKB is calculated based on firms’ patent distribution across technological categories. Instrumental-variable estimation, robustness tests, moderation analysis and heterogeneity analysis are conducted to address endogeneity concerns and test the stability of the findings. Findings The results show that PKB is positively associated with CCP, suggesting that a broader knowledge base helps firms transform innovation capabilities into broader developmental benefits. The findings remain robust after instrumental-variable estimation and additional tests. Further analysis shows that MYO weakens the positive relationship between PKB and CCP, whereas GBC and CGQ strengthen it. The relationship is more pronounced among non-state-owned enterprises, firms in regulated industries and firms without CEO duality. Originality/value This study extends micro-level research on CCP by introducing PKB into the analytical framework. It shows that the value of knowledge breadth extends beyond innovation performance to inclusive corporate development outcomes and highlights the boundary roles of MYO, GBC and CGQ in shaping the PKB–CCP relationship.