Financial disclosure following a crisis. A matter of transparency and information disclosure. The case of Veneto Banca.

Abstract

The chosen topic addresses the issue of financial disclosure, focusing on its role since the financial crisis of 2007. The objective of this paper is based on the problems of information overload and the difficulties in understanding, as regards financial matters, and is aimed at the target audience to which all these communications refer. The research was conducted, using book references and by studying authoritative scientific sources in the context of financial disclosure, and communication in general. The thesis is divided into four chapters. The first chapter explores the objectives and key features of communication processes; then, more in depth, it goes through financial communication. The second focuses on the main features of mandatory and voluntary disclosure, and describes the problems that arise around these topics, while the third introduces the financial crisis and particularly investigates what investors want in terms of disclosure. The fourth and final chapter examines the financial disclosure of one of the two Veneto banks that have recently declared bankruptcy - the Veneto Banca. The chapter confirms, in conclusive terms, that financial disclosure is still facing an information overload in pursuing transparency. This problem hampers both investors and savers in terms of understanding, but a possible solution has recently come into force.