The literature discusses several theories
which aim to explain the existence and consequences of regulation of GAAP: (i) public interest
theory of regulation and (ii) interest group and related capture theories of regulation. In line with
recent literature in accounting (Bushman and Landsman 2010, Kothari et al. 2010, Leuz 2010),
we argue that these theories provide a helpful framework for understanding why jurisdictions
regulate GAAP and how regulators respond to market forces. In general, markets are not static
mechanisms, suggesting considerable changes in the financial reporting and governance environment
and the interplay between market and political forces are likely to influence regulatory
actions (Ball 2009).