Intellectual Capital and Firm Performance in Australia

Abstract

This study examines the effect intellectual capital (IC) has on firm performance using a sample of Australian companies listed between 2004 and 2008. IC is measured using Pulic’s Value Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC) and its components and both a direct and a moderating relationship between VAIC and performance are analysed. The results suggest that there is a direct relationship between IC and performance of Australian publicly listed firms, particularly with capital employed efficiency and to a lesser extent with human capital efficiency. A positive relationship between IC (human and structural capital) in the prior year and performance in the current year is also found. Evidence also suggests the possibility of a moderating relationship between IC and physical and financial capital which impacts on firm performance