Some Determinants of Corporate Financing Decisions: Evidence from the Listed Companies in Tehran Stock Exchange

The aim of this empirical study is to explore the trade-off model and pecking order model of capital structure. The investigation is performed using panel data procedures for a sample of 76 firms listed in Tehran Stock Exchange during 2007-2010.The study employs OLS regression model in examining the capital structure of firms in Iran. The study employs variables reflecting differing theoretical arguments on capital structure. The results suggest that trade-off model and pecking order model are not mutually exclusive. Both trade-off model and pecking order model play an important role in determining the total debt level of firms. However, empirical results of long-term debt level consistent only with pecking order model but not trade-off model. This may because financial institutions in Iran do not concern seriously on the risk of insolvency. Firms with higher risk can access long- term debt financing as easy as firms with less risk. The findings of the study clearly demonstrate the importance of capital structure decisions for financial sources.