Bima Journal : Business, Management and Accounting Journal
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2025)

Moderating Role of Firm Size in the Relationship between Profitability, Leverage, and Stock Returns: Evidence from Indonesian Agriculture Sector

Maria, Evi (Unknown)
Sudiarto, Edi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Dec 2025

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores the effect of Return on Assets (ROA) and Debt to Equity Ratio (DER) on stock returns, with firm size as a moderating variable in agricultural companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2018 to 2021. Methodology: Using a quantitative approach and purposive sampling, 20 firms were analyzed over four years. Data were tested through classical assumption tests, hypothesis testing, and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). Results: ROA significantly and positively affects stock returns, while DER shows no direct impact. Firm size does not moderate the ROA–stock return relationship but does moderate the DER–stock return relationship. Findings: Profitability enhances investor value regardless of company size. However, the influence of leverage on stock returns varies depending on firm size. Novelty: This study highlights firm size as a conditional factor, offering new insights into its role in financial performance within Indonesia’s agricultural sector. Originality: Unlike prior research, firm size is treated as a moderator, not merely a control variable, revealing its strategic relevance. Conclusion: Company size selectively moderates financial indicators, emphasizing its importance in evaluating market performance. Type of Paper: Empirical research.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

bima

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

BIMA Journal is a scientific communication media which is issued by PDM Bengkulu. It is the contribution to the development of social science, business, accounting, and economy which is divided into the English Language which contains research results, literature review, field cases, or concepts. ...