The Effect of Corporate Governance Mechanisms on Financial leverage: Evidence from Firms Listed at Palestine and Jordan Stock Markets

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the influence of some corporate governance mechanisms (board size, board independence, chief executive officer duality, gender diversity in the board and insider share ownership) on financial leverage (244) listed firms in Palestine and Jordan stock markets during 2006 to 2017. Findings of the study indicate that there is a positive relationship between board size, female on board, and inside ownership with financial leverage. Whereas, an inverse relationship has been found between board independence, and chief executive officer duality with financial leverage.