The changing competitive structure of the Canadian accounting market over a period of large firm merger activity
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Date
1996
Authors
Lubbers, Miranda Charmain
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 1996
Abstract
My thesis studies the changing competitive structure of the Canadian auditing industry during the period 1987 to 1992. Two mergers took place over this period amond four large Canadian accounting firms. I assess whether market power is likely to become a problem with already high, and possibly increasing levels of concentration in the audit industry. Using data from several sources, I examine those characteristics that affect the likelihood that high concentration facilitates market power. I then apply the official standards (Merger Guidelines) for Canadian merger analysis to data on audit services. Because the Merger Guidelines expressly do not permit the authorities to oppose a merger merely on structural grounds, I supplement my structural analysis with a review of studies which examine whether audit fees are influenced upward by high concentration. Overall, I found the industry more competitive in the post merger period.
Description
xii, 149 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm.
Keywords
Auditing -- Canada , Competition -- Canada , Industrial concentration -- Canada , Accounting firms -- Canada -- Mergers , Dissertations, Academic