Prior research documents substantial variation in firms' tax avoidance activities and questions why some firms choose not to take advantage of the apparent benefits of tax planning (i.e., the "undersheltering puzzle"). We provide additional insight into the undersheltering puzzle by...

This study examines whether factors that influence firms' overall investment strategies also influence the decision to invest in a tax shelter. Our results suggest that firms with large investment opportunity sets are less likely to invest in tax shelters. We also find that firms with greater...

This study investigates whether the smoothness of estimated taxable income influences its value relevance. Contrary to research that finds that smoothness enhances the value relevance of book income, we find that smoothness reduces the value relevance of taxable income. We decompose the...

The Internal Revenue Code allows firms to carry excess tax losses forward to offset future taxable income and reduce taxes. Consistent with tax loss carryforwards (TLCFs) creating a significant asset, prior research finds investors positively value TLCFs. However, investors face significant...

This paper examines the impact of religion on financial reporting. We predict that firms in religious areas are less likely to engage in financial reporting irregularities because prior research links religiosity to reduced acceptance of unethical business practices and because managers in...

This study examines the impact of religion on financial reporting. We predict that firms in religious areas are less likely to engage in financial reporting irregularities because prior research links religiosity to reduced acceptance of unethical business practices. Our results suggest that...