Corporate governance and firm performance in an emerging market: Evidence from Barbados

Abstract

Good corporate governance practices are regarded as important in reducing risk for investors, attracting investment capital and improving the performance of companies. This paper investigates the relationship between corporate governance practices of the board of directors and firm performance of Colonial Life Insurance Company (CLICO), a large insurance company which collapsed in Barbados, and caused significant financial losses to policyholders. Using a case study approach, we used information from publicly available documents via print media and the internet to research the corporate governance practices and performance of CLICO. Findings reveal that the collapse of CLICO was a result of poor corporate governance mechanisms including lack of board independence, CEO and Chairman dual relationship, poor regulatory environment, non-functioning sub-committees, failure to manage risks, interlocking directorship, political involvement and lack of diversity. Recommendations include effective regulation, separation of the roles of CEO and Chairman, reduced political interference and more diversity.