A direct correlation exists between the maturity of an organization's risk management practices and stronger financial results and resiliency, according to a report released Thursday by Aon Global Risk Consulting, the risk consulting business of Aon P.L.C.

The Aon Risk Maturity Index Insight Report, prepared in collaboration with the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, is based on data from Aon's global database on risk management best practices. Based on an ongoing survey that asks companies across 25 industries about their commitment to risk management, transparency of risk communication and accountability at all levels of the organization, the index ranks a company's risk management maturity on an ascending scale of 1 to 5.

The report found that from March 2012 to March 2013, the group of organizations with a risk maturity rating of 5 exhibited an average stock price increase of 18%, while the organizations with the lowest risk maturity rating, 1, collectively saw stock price decline 10%.

Theresa Bourdon, Baltimore, Md.-based group managing director at Aon Global Risk Consulting, said the results underscore the link between proper risk management and a firm's financial performance and operational resiliency.

“Our analysis indicates that certain practices and structures can be put into place to help organizations maximize financial results and achieve organizational resiliency in the midst of stock market turbulence,” Ms. Bourdon said in a statement.

Kieran Stack, managing director at Aon Global Risk Consulting and the Aon Risk Maturity Index project leader, said the correlation between risk management and company performance was not surprising given the broad array of risks facing companies in the current business climate.

“We continue to see organizations that take a holistic approach to risk and integrate proactive risk management strategies with their broader strategic direction are better positioned for long-term financial and reputation success,” Mr. Stack said.