Determinan Penghindaran Pajak: Perspektif Teori Risk-Shifting

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of financial distress, firm size, leverage, capital intensity, market-to-book ratio, and temporary difference on tax avoidance in firms listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange. Comparative causal research was applied to this study. Based on purposive sampling, a total of 444 firms were selected as research samples. Data analysis was performed using the multiple linear regression test method for panel data. The research results indicate that financial distress and firm size each have a significant positive effect. These two variables are in line with the risk-shifting theory, where firms with financial distress tend to carry out risky tax avoidance to maintain the firm's existence. Firms with small amounts of assets are more likely to do tax avoidance, because of the low cash circulation in the firm which makes the firm unable to pay the tax fees charged. Leverage, capital intensity, market-tobook ratio, and temporary difference do not significantly influence tax avoidance. Regulated borrowing rates and tight supervision by banks make it increasingly difficult for firms to avoid taxes. Improved operational firm performance through fixed assets investment makes the firm more profitable and the tax expense increases. The ability of the firm's management to avoid taxes is seen from its experience and strategy, so it has no effect on the market value of the firm. The significant difference between current profit and taxable profit puts the company at risk of doing earnings management compared to avoiding taxes.