<![CDATA[This study aims to explore the role of stock price growth targets as a predictor of earnings manipulation among Indonesian technology sector issuers through the lens of the Fraud Triangle framework. Employing an exploratory qualitative approach with a single holistic case study design, the research involved 18 participants from 12 technology issuers listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the 2020–2025 period. Data were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews, annual report reviews, and news documentation, and subsequently analyzed using six-phase thematic analysis. The findings reveal seven primary themes: aggressive target pressure as the dominant predictor; technical opacity as an opportunity for manipulation; collective rationalization within the technology ecosystem; manifestations of earnings manipulation; governance weaknesses; consequences of manipulation; and detection mechanisms. The novelty of this research lies in introducing stock price growth targets as a more contextually relevant proxy for pressure in the technology sector, in contrast to conventional proxies such as financial stability or leverage. Policy implications include the need for technology-specific accounting guidance, red-flag-based supervision using indicators such as extreme PER ratios and low free float, and the strengthening of criminal sanctions against manipulators.]]>
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