The Impact of Digital Transformation on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): An Empirical Study of Companies Listed on the Casablanca Stock Exchange

Abstract

This study examines the impact of digital transformation on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) among companies listed on the Casablanca Stock Exchange. Digital transformation, characterized by adopting technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analytics, and the Internet of Things, is increasingly recognized as a critical driver of CSR performance. This research uses a sample of 45 companies, analyzing their CSR efforts through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) ratings obtained from Refinitiv and their digital transformation efforts measured by keyword frequency analysis from their 2023 annual reports. The findings reveal a positive relationship between digital transformation and CSR, particularly in governance and social responsibility dimensions. Regression analysis confirms that companies with higher levels of digital transformation tend to achieve better ESG scores, suggesting that digital transformation is a technological upgrade and a strategic imperative for enhancing CSR. The study highlights the variation in impact across different sectors, with heavily regulated industries such as banking and finance showing stronger correlations. The implications for businesses are clear: investing in digital transformation can significantly improve sustainability practices and stakeholder engagement. Future research should explore specific digital strategies that enhance CSR and investigate potential non-linear relationships in greater depth.

Keywords: Digital Transformation, Corporate Social Responsibility, ESG, Casablanca Stock Exchange

JEL Classification: M14,M15

Paper type: Empirical research