Yongtao (David) Hong
Professor of Accounting and Challey Faculty Fellow
Yongtao (David) Hong’s journey into academia has been guided by curiosity and a drive to uncover the factors that shape the quality of financial accounting information. Now a professor at North Dakota State University and a Challey Institute Faculty Fellow, David integrates his passion for research, teaching, and service to make a meaningful impact on his students, peers, and the broader academic community.
Grounded in Financial Accounting
David’s academic career began during his graduate studies, where he assisted with groundbreaking research on the cross-listing of international firms in U.S. markets. The project, published in the Accounting Review, cemented his decision to pursue a Ph.D. and laid the foundation for his lifelong focus on financial accounting. Over the years, he has developed a body of research that explores critical issues like earnings management, corporate social responsibility, and the quality of financial reporting.
One of his most influential works, published in the Journal of Business Ethics, examines the impact of corporate social responsibility on earnings management - an article that has been cited more than 570 times. His research has also delved into the impacts of tax policies, capital market participation, and corporate governance structures, offering theoretical and practical insights.
David is exploring research related to cryptocurrency accounting standards, which is one of the most pressing issues in financial reporting today. He is especially interested in how increased transparency and disclosure in this area could enhance market outcomes.
Bridging Research and Teaching
David’s passion for financial accounting extends seamlessly into the classroom, where he brings his research findings to life for students. He believes strongly in the foundational importance of financial accounting, describing it as the bedrock upon which students build their future careers. In his classes, David uses real-world examples from his research, such as the effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on R&D investments, to help students connect abstract concepts with practical applications.
The moments that stand out most to him are those “aha” breakthroughs when students grasp challenging ideas. These experiences remind him why teaching is such a rewarding part of his career. His goal is to ensure that his students leave his classes not only with technical knowledge but also with the ability to apply that knowledge effectively in their careers.
Leadership and Community Engagement
David is committed to contributing to the broader academic community through his work as a peer reviewer for journals such as the Journal of Business Ethics and the Journal of Accounting and Public Policy. These roles allow him to support the work of other scholars while ensuring that high standards of academic rigor are maintained.
Outside academia, David finds ways to give back to the community. As ex-president and coach of the Fargo-Moorhead Table Tennis Association, he volunteers his time to teach table tennis to local students, nurturing the same curiosity and dedication he applies to his classroom and research.
Looking Ahead
David envisions a future for his field characterized by innovation and adaptation. With areas such as artificial intelligence transforming the accounting landscape, he is eager to explore how this emerging technology and the accompanying changing standards can tackle challenges. Simultaneously, he remains deeply committed to empowering his students and advancing his research on the evolving dynamics of financial accounting.
For David, the drive to innovate and contribute stems from his love of research and the creative process it entails. Whether mentoring students, advancing knowledge in his field, or serving his community, his work reflects a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact.
The Sheila and Robert Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth aims to advance understanding in the areas of innovation, trade, institutions, and human potential to identify policies and solutions that enhance economic growth and opportunity. Learn more at www.ndsu.edu/challeyinstitute
