The Effect of Intellectual Capital on Firm Profitability and Efficiency: Evidence from Thai Listed Companies in the Agriculture and Food Industry

Abstract

This article examines the effect of Intellectual Capital (IC) on the performances of selected Thai listed companies in the Agro and Food industry from 2017 to 2019. The sample consisted of 45 companies with 135 observations spanning three years. The Modified Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (MVAIC) model was used to measuring IC, including capital employed, human capital, structural capital, and relational capital. Performance was measured using two distinct parameters: profitability and efficiency. The regression results revealed that MVAIC and its components (excluding relational capital) had a significantly positive impact on firm profitability. However, only capital employed affected firm efficiency. This study confirms that IC efficiency significantly enhances profitability. Therefore, firm managers or policymakers can use the MVAIC model to monitor and assess their assets and create business strategies to achieve a competitive advantage. Furthermore, this model might be used by investors and shareholders to make better investment decisions and evaluate a firm’s market wealth.