Sahin, Semra BogaBozkurt, GozdeTatli, Hasan SadikGillpatrick, Tom2026-01-312026-01-3120250013-3035https://doi.org./10.31577/ekoncas.2025.03-04.01https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12662/10804This study examines the causal relationships between ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, R&D expenditures, and financial performance in the technology and food sectors in the US. A panel dataset from 2012-2021 from the Thomson Reuters database was analysed for 12 food and 18 technology companies. The findings show that there are different causal relationships between sectors. While R&D investments in the technology sector positively affect firm performance by increasing ESG compliance, firm performance in the food sector directs ESG compliance, encouraging R&D investments. The study emphasizes that sectoral differences should be considered in sustainability and R&D strategies and guides policymakers and managers to develop approaches appropriate to the dynamics of the sector.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessESG criteriafirm performanceR&Dfood industrytechnology sectorcausalityArticle10.31577/ekoncas.2025.03-04.012-s2.0-1050142436321203-4Q49973WOS:001618205500001Q4