This study explores the influence of peer effects on corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, focusing its overall construct, underlying mechanisms, and economic consequences. Using data from A-share listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2011 to 2022, the analysis reveals significant industry-level peer effects, demonstrating that competitors play a crucial role in shaping firms' ESG practices. The study identifies two primary mechanisms driving these effects: social learning and market competition. Follower firms tend to emulate the ESG p...
