Domestic enterprises often view Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as an economic burden or performance stunt, while foreign research highlights its benefits for enhancing company image and competitiveness. This paper investigates the relationship between CSR and Corporate Financial Performance (CFP) to encourage public attention and proactive CSR engagement. Using theoretical analysis and empirical research, the study explores CSR's impact on financial performance. Theoretical models propose that CSR's impact should be divided into direct and intermediary effects. Empirical analysis of Guangzhou's listed enterprises reveals that CSR's total effect on financial performance is insignificant. However, when decomposed, CSR shows a negative direct impact and a positive intermediary effect through media attention on accounting indices. The paper recommends enterprises enhance CSR awareness, increase publicity of CSR activities, and adopt CSR as a long-term strategy. Additionally, policy support for proactive CSR is suggested to promote sustainable development.

Zhao Cong, Grace Raborar Tobias. Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Financial Performance—Taking Guangzhou Listed Companies as Examples. Academic Journal of Business & Management (2024) Vol. 6, Issue 8: 199-204. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJBM.2024.060829.

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