Ascendia: Journal of Economic and Business Advancement
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): September: Ascendia: Journal of Economic and Business Advancement

Corporate Sustainability and Strategic Adaptation in Emerging Markets: Evidence from Sustainability and Annual Reports

Bunga Dwi Fani Ritonga (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study examines how corporations in emerging markets articulate and implement strategic adaptation to sustainability imperatives through evidence drawn from sustainability and annual reports. Using a qualitative content analysis of corporate documents published between 2020 and 2024, the research identifies patterns in disclosure practices, governance adaptation, and sustainability-linked financing. The findings reveal that although sustainability disclosures have become increasingly common, substantial heterogeneity persists in the depth of strategic integration and operational execution. Firms that embed sustainability objectives into governance structures, performance targets, and financing mechanisms demonstrate higher strategic maturity and resilience. The results also indicate that emerging-market corporations are progressively aligning with international reporting frameworks such as ISSB and EFRAG, signaling a broader institutional transformation. Overall, corporate documentation provides a valuable lens through which to observe the transition of emerging-market firms from symbolic reporting toward substantive strategic adaptation that integrates sustainability into long-term business competitiveness.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ascendia

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Ascendia: Journal of Economic and Business Advancement is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the dissemination of high-quality research in economics, management, accounting, and business. The journal provides an open platform for researchers, scholars, practitioners, and academics to ...