CAPITAL STRUCTURE DECISIONS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR: PECKING ORDER OR TRADE OFF?

Abstract

This study addresses a contrast of the theoretical foundations of Pecking Order and Trade Off through the panel data methodology, applied to Ecuadorian commercial companies. The results show that the cash flow deficit, size, growth opportunity and tangibility of the assets define the capital structure. In addition, it constitutes a contribution to the scientific debate on the modern Pecking Order theory, observing that short and long-term financing decisions are based on the internal resources generated and the investments required for a normal business operation.