Financial Decision of Tunisian Firms in the Context of Market Timing Theory

Abstract

This work focuses on the study of the determinants of capital structure in the context of the "Market Timing" theory in a sample of 20 Tunisian firms listed on the Tunis Stock Exchange during the period 2004-2010. The empirical analysis shows that the results are inconclusive regarding the relevance of certain variables from this theoretical framework due to various reasons including market inefficiency. We can also invoke the behavioral dimension of Tunisian companies insofar as direct finance is not often the preferred alternative by the agents as well as to those in need financing capacity. Keywords: Capital structure; Market Timing Theory; Market to Book Ratio; Panel Data JEL Classifications: C33; G31; L25