Order Backlog in Earnings Conference Calls

Abstract

Focusing on quarterly earnings conference call transcripts, we provide evidence that order backlog is positively priced by investors. Pricing is efficient whether these discussions are accompanied by quantitative support or are solely qualitative. We find these disclosures to have stronger pricing effects for growth firms and firms with weaker information environments. Our study contributes to the body of order backlog research by incorporating more timely disclosures as well as by incorporating qualitative disclosures.