arbiter
JournalsAccount

Bridging the information gap: assessing the impact of online attention on firm productivity

Jing Gao et al.

International Journal of Emerging Markets2026https://doi.org/10.1108/ijoem-03-2025-0639article
AJG 1ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Purpose This article draws on the external governance framework to theoretically analyze the complex relationship between online attention and firm productivity, then empirically examines the impact of online attention on firm productivity using panel data from A-share listed companies in China between 2011 and 2019. Design/methodology/approach This article employs a multidimensional fixed effects model to examine the impact of online attention on firm productivity. Firm advertising expenditure is used as an instrument in a two-stage least squares estimation. Robustness tests include adding additional fixed effects and substituting alternative proxies for both online attention and firm productivity. Heterogeneity is further explored using a moderation model. Findings The results indicate that online attention effectively enhances firm productivity. The positive impact on productivity mainly operates through technological innovation and cost-saving channels. Specifically, online attention boosts both innovation inputs and outputs, while also reducing cost-to-revenue ratios. The positive effect of online attention is more pronounced for state-owned and high-tech firms. Practical implications This article suggests, firstly, enhancing digital infrastructure and information dissemination systems to strengthen the structural foundations of online attention. Secondly, fully leveraging the dual role of online attention in promoting firm innovation and optimizing cost structures. Thirdly, the government should implement differentiated support policies to maximize the positive effects of online attention on state-owned and high-tech firms. Originality/value This study not only deepens the understanding of online attention's role but also provides both theoretical and empirical insights to aid nations in advancing their digital economies.

Open via your library →

Cite this paper

https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/ijoem-03-2025-0639

Or copy a formatted citation

@article{jing2026,
  title        = {{Bridging the information gap: assessing the impact of online attention on firm productivity}},
  author       = {Jing Gao et al.},
  journal      = {International Journal of Emerging Markets},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/ijoem-03-2025-0639},
}

Paste directly into BibTeX, Zotero, or your reference manager.

Flag this paper

Bridging the information gap: assessing the impact of online attention on firm productivity

Flags are reviewed by the Arbiter methodology team within 5 business days.

Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.