FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT DECISIONS AND FIRM VALUE OF SELECTED QUOTED COMPANIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper determined the effect of financial management decisions on the value of selected firms listed in the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) for the year 2022. Employing an ex post facto research design and utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics, the study examined the impact of capital structure decisions (represented by retained earnings), dividend decisions (proposed dividends for the year), and corporate investment decisions (research and development investment cost) on firm value, measured using Tobin's Q. The population comprised 21 consumer goods companies listed on the NGX.  The findings revealed a significant positive effect of retained earnings and proposed dividends on firm value, while research and development investment cost did not significantly affect firm value in the regression model. The paper concluded that financial management decision has a significant effect on firm value of consumer goods companies listed in the Nigerian Exchange Group. Based on the findings, recommendations are made for companies to prioritize strategies that enhance their capital structure through increased retention of earnings, carefully evaluate their dividend policies to ensure sustainability and alignment with long-term growth objectives, and consider the long-term impacts of investment decisions on firm value and competitiveness.