Asian Journal of Economics, Business and Accounting

Strategic Planning and Development Project Performance: Evidence from Garissa County Government, Kenya

Abdi Abdirahman Ahmed — 2025-09-24

Persistent underperformance in the implementation of development projects in Garissa County Government necessitated this study, which aimed to assess the effects of strategic planning influences on the performance of county development projects. Guided by agency theory and the resource-based theory, the study examined how strategic planning practices shape project outcomes. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting 345 employees of the county assembly. Using stratified random sampling, 123 respondents were selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, which was tested for validity using expert opinion and construct validity tests and reliability based on Cronbach’s alpha. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that strategic planning had a moderately significant positive effect on project performance (p=0.042). The study concludes that enhancing project success requires deliberate investment in inclusive strategic planning frameworks that align with institutional vision and stakeholder needs. This has strong alignment between vision, goals, and resource allocation contributing to improved timeliness, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction. The study recommends strengthening project planning through participatory approaches, continuous training of planners, and integration of monitoring systems. Suggestions for further research include comparative studies across other counties and longitudinal studies to track long-term impacts of strategic planning.

The Volatility Premium in a Frontier Market: Evidence from the Pakistan Stock Exchange

AHMAD AL-HARBI — 2025-09-24

This paper investigates the primary determinants of stock returns on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), a key frontier market. Using a panel dataset of 15 large-cap stocks from 2011 to 2022, we test for the pricing of microstructure frictions (illiquidity, information asymmetry) and classic risk (total volatility). Our panel regression models show no statistically significant premium for illiquidity or information asymmetry. Instead, past total volatility emerges as the sole robust and significant determinant of returns, with a positive coefficient of 0.951 (t-stat = 2.91). This finding directly challenges the low-volatility anomaly documented in developed markets and affirms the classic risk-return paradigm in a high-uncertainty environment. For investors, our results imply that managing total volatility is more critical than managing liquidity risk for large-cap Pakistani stocks, while for policymakers, it highlights the importance of macroeconomic stability in lowering the cost of capital.

Scheduled Tribe Status, Health and Socio-Economic Conditions: An Exploratory Study of the Narikuravar Community in India

T. Mohanasundaram — 2025-09-25

Narikuravar community is a nomadic tribal group in Tamil Nadu. They have historically faced socio-economic and health challenges. The need for this study arises from the absence of holistic research covering demographic, socio-economic, social, cultural, civic, and financial inclusion aspects, and from the lack of studies exploring the community’s awareness of ST benefits and their effect on livelihood improvement. An exploratory research design was adopted, using snowball sampling to collect primary data from 240 respondents across Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Namakkal, and Cuddalore districts of Tamil Nadu. Findings show that 56.25% of respondents were female, and 41% were aged between 30 and 41 years. Education levels were very low, with nearly 73% having no or only primary/secondary education. About 46.67% were engaged in small-scale self-employment, largely due to lack of education, and only 45.83% lived in pucca houses. Most respondents resided in rural areas (61.67%), belonged to nuclear families (59.17%), and 43% reported facing social discrimination, especially in rural areas. Additionally, 45.42% consumed alcohol or smoked, indicating poor health awareness. Civic rights such as voting and ration cards were widely held, but bank account ownership and financial literacy were limited. Chi-square analysis showed significant relationships between education, livelihood, area of residence, and perceived social discrimination. Binary logistic regression indicates strong relationship between ‘Awareness of Scheduled Tribe benefits’, ‘Area of Residence’ and ‘Education’. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions in education, livelihood training, financial inclusion, and anti-discrimination efforts to support the sustainable development of the Narikuravar community.

An Analysis of Marketing Constraints Faced by Farmers in Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India

S.Saravanan — 2025-09-25

For farmers in India, agricultural marketing is still a major obstacle, especially in areas like Tamil Nadu's Salem district where informational, structural, and infrastructure limitations still obstruct development. With an emphasis on issues like middlemen exploitation, price volatility, a lack of storage and transportation facilities, restricted access to formal markets, and insufficient market information, this study attempts to identify and analyses the main marketing challenges that farmers in the district face. The study's foundation is a mix of secondary data from institutional and governmental reports and primary data gathered from local farmers' by using structured questionnaires. The ample size is 200 farmers and timeframe is January 2024 to May 2025. The collected data is analyzed using Garett ranking and chi square test. Due to inadequate connectivity and ignorance of alternative market platforms like e-NAM, the majority of farmers, according to the findings, rely significantly on intermediaries. In order to guarantee fair pricing and lower post-harvest losses, the study also emphasizes the necessity of increased institutional support, Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) promotion, and infrastructure development. The paper's conclusion makes recommendations for community-driven solutions and policy-level interventions to improve farmers' access to markets and profitability in the Salem district.

Firm Characteristics, Capital Structure and Financial Reporting Timeliness: The Mediating Role of Financial Performance in Indonesian Food and Beverage Companies

Diana Kartika — 2025-09-25

Aims: The food and beverage industry is an example of the rapid development in the industrial world in recent years

Study Design: Companies are increasingly intensifying their competition in line with this rapid economic growth. The purpose of this research is to test and analyze the influence of company size, company age, and capital structure on the timeliness of financial reporting through financial performance.

Methodology: This research employs a quantitative research method. The population of this study consists of 26 food and beverage companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the period 2019-2022. The sampling technique used in this study is purposive sampling. The research sample consists of 24 companies. Data analysis is conducted using path analysis with the assistance of SPSS software version 25.

Results: The research results indicate that company size, company age, and capital structure have a positive influence on financial performance. Company size, company age, capital structure, and financial performance have a positive influence on the timeliness of financial reporting. Meanwhile, company size, company age, and capital structure positively influence the timeliness of financial reporting through financial performance.

Conclusion: This study is essential as there are still food and beverage companies that delay the submission of financial reports, thereby failing to meet the expectations of financial statement users.

Recalibrating Inflation Targeting Frameworks in Developing Economies: Empirical Evidence from Zambia

Richard Mulenga — 2025-09-25

This study examines the effectiveness of Zambia's inflation targeting (IT) framework from 2015 to 2024 focusing on how deviations from the target range affected policy credibility, macroeconomic stability, and investment inflows. Using quarterly data spanning the decade and employing a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), the study investigates both the short- and long-term effects of the monetary policy rate (MPR), real GDP, foreign direct investment (FDI), trade flows, and the real effective exchange rate (REER) on the performance of the inflation gap. The findings reveal that Zambia achieved its inflation target in merely 12.5% of the quarters, with substantial deviations occurring in 87.5% of the periods, predominantly during times of fiscal expansion and external shocks. Long-term estimates indicate that increasing the target reduces the inflation gap by 4%, while higher inflation and GDP growth exacerbate it by 12% and 14%, respectively. Additionally, FDI inflows and export growth have contributed to inflationary pressures, compromising price stability and undermining FDI inflows. These results underscore the presence of weak monetary transmission mechanisms and highlight that restoring credibility cannot be accomplished only through monetary tightening. The findings broaden the debate on whether IT frameworks require recalibration in developing and shock-prone economies. Therefore, the study recommends that, to restore credibility and attract sustainable investment, reforms must go beyond the narrow scope of monetary tightening and adopt a more flexible and adaptive IT strategy appropriate for Zambia and similar developing economies. Developing countries should adopt integrated, flexible, recalibrated macroeconomic strategies that align monetary, fiscal and structural policies for long-term stability.

Analysis the Effect of Job Enrichment, Job Engagement, Team Work and Organization Culture on Organizational Commitment with Job Satisfaction as Mediating Variable on Vocational School Surabaya

Teman Koesmono — 2025-09-25

Aims: Organizational commitment is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and performance of vocational schools. This study aimed to investigate how job enrichment, job engagement with job satisfaction as mediating role.

Study Design: This research is quantitative study by using random sampling, the primary data by distributing questionnaires.

Place and Duration of Study: The sample were 165 a teacher from vocational school Surabaya. The method used SEM.

Methodology: This research is quantitative research. The population of all private vocational school teachers in Surabaya. Sampling technique with random sampling with a total of 165 teachers of SMK swsata in Surabaya (according to the questionnaire returned). The data analysis technique using SEM (Structural Equation Modelling) is 100-200 (sugiyono, 2010).

Results: The result are job enrichment affects job satisfaction, job engagement affects job satisfaction, team works has no effect on job satisfaction, organizational culture has no effect on job satisfaction, job enrichment affects organizational commitment, job engangement affects organizational commitment, team works affects organizational commitment, organizational culture affects organizational commitment, job satisfaction affects organizational commitment, transformational leadership moderates the influence of job satisfaction on organizational commitment.

Conclusion: The sustainability of the management of the learning system in vocational high school institutions must of course be maintained in order to help or contribute to the community to develop human resources in a sustainable manner through various variables that have been described previously.

Adopting Digital Marketing in Papua: Strategies and Barriers for MSMEs

Yohanis Rante — 2025-09-25

Aims: The main aim of this study is to explore effective digital marketing strategies for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Papua, with a particular focus on overcoming challenges related to infrastructure and digital literacy. The study also seeks to highlight local initiatives that can serve as models for inclusive and sustainable digital marketing practices in the region.

Place: The research was conducted in Jayapura City and Mimika Regency, two areas representing urban and resource-based economic activities in Papua.

Methodology: This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Primary data was obtained through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with selected MSME actors across different sectors, including handicrafts, food and beverages, and local service industries. Secondary data was collected from government reports, academic publications, and policy documents related to digital economy development in Papua. The collected data was then analyzed thematically to identify key challenges, opportunities, and strategies in digital marketing adoption.

Results: The study finds that technology adoption among MSMEs in Papua is still limited, with most relying on traditional marketing due to poor internet access and low digital literacy. Some entrepreneurs, particularly in Jayapura, use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp Business, showing the potential of digital tools. Local initiatives such as online marketplaces and training programs led by universities and NGOs demonstrate encouraging progress, though infrastructure gaps and limited skills remain major barriers. Moreover, gaps in digital literacy continue to hinder MSME actors from fully optimizing digital platforms for business growth, indicating a strong need for continuous training and mentoring.

Conclusion: The research concludes that while MSME digitalization in Papua is at an early stage, it has strong potential if supported by targeted interventions. Strengthening digital literacy programs, improving internet infrastructure, and fostering collaboration between government, private sector, and local communities are crucial steps. These efforts will enhance MSME competitiveness and promote more inclusive economic development in Papua.

Strategic Material Capability and Performance of Pharmacies: A Study of Garissa Town, Kenya

Farah Noor Farah — 2025-09-26

Material capability's influence in deciding organizational performance has been stressed in a growing empirical literature. Material inadequacy exposes pharmacies to poor deliveries, frequent stock-outs, and service disintermediation. In Garissa Town, operational shortcomings like deteriorating road networks, erratic transportation services, and inconsistent vendor networks exacerbate these scenarios, making it difficult for pharmacies to maintain adequate stock levels or meet client demand in a predictable manner. This study investigated the effect of material capability on the performance of pharmacies in Garissa Town in Kenya, with a specific focus on inventory accuracy, procurement efficiency, and cost control. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, covering 35 licensed pharmacies between 10^th January to 15^th August 2025. The study engaged 105 respondents, comprising pharmacy managers, procurement officers, and pharmacists, using semi-structured questionnaires and interview schedules. A pilot study conducted in Hola, Tana River County, in Kenya, confirmed the clarity, reliability, and validity of the instruments. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26, where descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression techniques were applied. Results indicated a mean material capability score of 3.8851 (SD = 0.60714), while pharmacy performance registered a mean of 3.8873 (SD = 0.49227). Correlation analysis revealed a strong, positive, and statistically significant association between material capability and pharmacy performance (r = 0.684, p = 0.001). Regression results further confirmed material capability as the most influential predictor (β = 0.471, p = 0.001), accounting for a substantial portion of the variance in performance. Pharmacies with dependable procurement systems, reliable suppliers, and effective stock-out prevention mechanisms consistently reported higher profitability, customer satisfaction, and retention. Qualitative findings highlighted that, despite infrastructural and supply constraints, pharmacies adopted adaptive strategies such as localized vendor networks and manual stock-tracking systems to sustain operations. The study concludes that material capability is central to enhancing pharmacy performance in resource-constrained environments and recommends strategic investment in inventory management systems, supplier reliability, and procurement planning to strengthen service delivery, operational efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.

Stakeholder Awareness and Adaptability to Competency Based Education System in Balambala Sub-County, Kenya

Abdi Hussein Maalim — 2025-09-26

The Competency-Based Education was introduced in Kenya with aim of promoting learner-centered approaches, practical skills and holistic development. However, the implementation of program in Kenya has faced structural barriers such as poor teacher preparation, lack of teaching and learning resources, and poor infrastructure. The enrollment has stretched the available facilities and late delivery of textbooks has disrupted the teaching-learning process. The objective of this study was to examine relationship between stakeholder awareness and adaptability to Competency-Based Education in Balambala Sub-County, Kenya. It was guided by Technology Acceptance Model. Correlational research design was employed in the study. The study targeted a population of 178 education stakeholders. Census was conducted to obtain 2 Sub- County Directors and 4 CSOs, while 30% of the 26 schools were randomly selected. A structured questionnaire and interview schedules were used for data collection tools. The Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test reliability of the instrument while experts’ advice was used to establish validity. The analysis of quantitative data involved descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics showed that the stakeholders’ awareness was moderate. Inferential analysis results revealed a positive significant effect of stakeholder awareness and adaptability to Competency-Based Education in Balambala Sub-County, Kenya. Teachers, parents, and education policymakers in Balambala Sub-County are key beneficiaries of this study, as it clearly demonstrates the vital role of stakeholder awareness in the successful implementation of the Competency-Based Education system. Learners directly benefit from this enhanced engagement, which ensures a more responsive, inclusive, and effective educational environment tailored to their needs.

Resource Dedication and Performance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Garissa County, Kenya

Mohamud Abdi Aden — 2025-09-26

This study examined the effect of resource dedication on the performance of SACCOs in Garissa County, Kenya. The research was grounded in the Resource-Based View theory. A descriptive research design was adopted, targeting all 121 employees of SACCOs within the county. To ensure comprehensive representation, a census sampling technique was employed. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires. The validity of the instruments was assessed using content validity, while reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha at 0.7 threshold. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while inferential statistics helped establish the relationship between variables. The study found that, at a 5% level of significance, resource dedication has a statistically significant positive effect on the performance of SACCOs in Garissa County. Based on these findings, the study recommends that SACCOs in the region implement policy interventions focused on strengthening financial oversight.

Effect of Leadership Change on Performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya

Hussein Ahmed Baraki — 2025-09-28

Garissa Water and Sewerage Company has consistently recorded poor performance manifesting in form of decline in revenue collection, rising operational costs, and limited water coverage. While studies have linked strategic management practices to organizational outcomes, there is limited research in this area for Garissa Water and Sewerage Company; justifying the need to investigate the effect of leadership change on GAWASCO’s performance. This study investigates the effect of leadership change on the performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design targeting 91 employees of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Since the target population was manageable and easily accessible, the study used census. Primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires complemented by interviews with key informants. The tool was tested for validity using content analysis and reliability using The Cronbach’s alpha coefficients at a threshold of 0.7. Quantitative data collected was analysed to yield. descriptive statistics. Regression analysis was carried out to establish a model for predicting the dependent variable in terms of the independent variable. The findings revealed that leadership change positively and significantly influences performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya., with emphasis on leaders’ commitment, competence, creativity, and ability to build coalitions for change (R² = 0.538, B = 0.612, p = 0.000). The study concludes that leadership transformation enhances efficiency, service delivery, and revenue collection in public water utilities. It recommends strengthening leadership development programs, fostering innovative leadership styles, and institutionalizing participatory approaches to sustain performance gains. Effective, visionary, and accountable leadership, built through strategic communication, development, and evaluation, would significantly enhance organizational performance, service delivery, and public trust, especially in essential sectors like water supply.

The Mediating Role of Organizational Citizenship Behavior and Product Creativity between Risk-taking Tendency, Transformational Leadership and Performance

Vierina Clyde — 2025-09-29

This study examines the influence of risk-taking tendencies and transformational leadership on organizational performance, emphasizing the mediating roles of product creativity, organizational citizenship behavior, and management accounting systems (MAS). This study employed a quantitative survey method by distributing self-administered questionnaires to 277 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of manufacturing firms in Banten Province. Data were analyzed with structural equation modeling (Smart PLS 3.3). The findings support thirteen hypotheses, demonstrating that risk-taking tendencies and transformational leadership positively affect product creativity and MAS, while product creativity and organizational citizenship behavior further enhance MAS. Moreover, MAS significantly mediates the relationship between both risk-taking tendencies and transformational leadership with performance. Overall, the results highlight that fostering risk-taking behavior and transformational leadership indirectly improves organizational performance through stronger creativity and MAS practices. Theoretically, this study extends organizational behavior and management accounting literature by integrating leadership, creativity, and control systems into a unified framework. Practically, the findings underscore the importance for managers to align transformational leadership styles with organizational needs for creativity, innovation, and calculated risk-taking. Supported by a well-designed Management Accounting System (MAS), this alignment can enhance decision making processes and foster a performance. Managers are encouraged to cultivate leadership behaviors that inspire innovation and support a risk taking tendency, as these elements are shown to significantly contribute to improved organizational performance in dynamic and competitive environments.

Assessing the Effect of Differentiation Strategy on the Performance of Selected Hotels in Garissa County

Yussuf Maraade Garane — 2025-09-30

The dynamic changes of globalization especially in hospitality industry, joined by the changing competitive circumstances on the world markets, innovative progressions in addition to the changing client tastes and inclinations have established a powerful business climate practically in almost all sectors including hotels. Therefore, the significance of competitive strategies in hotel sector cannot be overemphasized. This research assessed the effects of differentiation strategy on the performance of selected hotels in Garissa County. This research was based on Market Segmentation Theory. The study target population was 402 staff members from ten hotels operating within Garissa County. The study applied purposive sampling to select the study sample size. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Study findings indicated that a unit increase in differentiation strategy resulted in 31.6% increase in performance hence improving performance. A unit increase in focus strategy resulted in 28.7% increase in hotels performance. The study recommended hotels need to enhance their web ranking as well as improve their market share using the competitive strategies. These recommendations underscore that strategic policy and operational focus on differentiation and segmentation are key drivers of sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the hotel industry.

An Assessment of Barriers to Effective Digital Banking Service Delivery in Nigerian Commercial Banks: Customers Perspective

Akinwunmi, Akinsola O. — 2025-10-03

This study aims to examine the barriers that hinder effective digital banking service delivery in Nigerian commercial banks from the customers’ perspective, focusing on their influence on perceived usefulness and ease of use. A quantitative survey design was employed, targeting 400 active users of mobile applications, internet banking, USSD, and POS services, with 395 valid responses analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS. The study adopted the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as its framework, with barriers conceptualized across five dimensions: reliability, security, cost, infrastructure, and support. Descriptive results revealed widespread challenges, including frequent transaction failures, poor network connectivity, high charges, fraud risks, and delayed redress mechanisms, despite customers acknowledging digital banking as convenient and efficient. Structural Equation Modeling showed that customer-perceived barriers significantly and negatively affect both perceived usefulness (β = –0.52, P < .001) and perceived ease of use (β = –0.59, P < .001), with large effect sizes and meaningful predictive relevance. The findings highlight that while customers appreciate the potential of digital banking, persistent infrastructural, financial, and trust-related obstacles undermine their experience. The study concludes that improving service reliability, reducing transaction costs, enhancing security frameworks, and strengthening customer support are essential to fostering trust, satisfaction, and sustainable digital financial inclusion in Nigeria.

Effect of Inventory Management on Competitiveness of Food and Beverage Manufacturing Firms in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Rachel Jerotich Kiptoo — 2025-10-03

The food and beverage processing sector in Kenya is vital to the national economy due to its role in job creation and its contribution to GDP. However, its competitiveness has faced challenges stemming from high operational costs and inefficient supply chain processes. This study examined the effect of inventory management on competitiveness of food and beverage manufacturing firms in Uasin Gishu county, Kenya. The study was guided by the Resource-Based View Theory. An explanatory research design was adopted, targeting 924 departmental staff across 22 food and beverage firms. A sample of 279 respondents was selected using Yamane’s formula and simple random sampling employed. Data was collected through structured, closed-ended questionnaires, and a pilot study in Nakuru County was conducted to validate the research instrument. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, incorporating both descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and hierarchical regression analyses. Findings revealed that inventory management (β₁=0.152, p=0.004) significantly and positively influenced competitiveness. The study concluded that effective inventory management greatly contributes to the increase in competitiveness among food and beverage manufacturing firms in Uasin Gishu County. The study recommends that food and beverage firms should enhance their inventory management systems by integrating advanced tools and practices such as regular audits, forecasting, and lean inventory strategies. The study's findings will be valuable to food and beverage manufacturing firms by informing managers on optimizing limited resources for competitive advantage through inventory management, guiding the Ministry of Trade in policy formulation within Kenyan borders, and contributing to the broader academic discourse.

Influence of Human Resource Planning on Organizational Performance: A Quantitative Study of the Federal Ministry of Education, Nigeria

Michael Sunday Ikupolati — 2025-10-04

The study examines the impact of human resource planning like training and recruitment on organizational performance in Nigeria Federal Ministry of Education. The research design was the quantitative approach where statistical analysis was employed to examine research questions, test hypotheses and establish relationships between the variables of interest. One research question and hypotheses guided the study, seven hundred and seventy-four (774) employees of the federal ministry of education, in Nigeria were randomly selected from the various departments in the organization. The reliability of the research instrument was tested using the Cronbach Alpha technique, and a coefficient of 0.93 was obtained. Scores generated from the research instrument with Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27 and analyzed using the weighted mean score and simple linear regression statistical technique. The study results indicated human resource planning with the parameters (β = 1.425, t_cal = 17.1, R = 0.55, R² = 0.30, Adj. R² = 0.30, F_cal = 159.7, P = 0.00 < 0.05) had a positive and significant influence on the organizational performance at the federal ministry of education in Nigeria. It was also discovered that, there exist a moderate positive and significant relationship between human resource planning and organizational performance at the federal ministry of education, Abuja, which implies that an improvement in human resource planning will lead to an increase in organizational performance by 55%.

Artificial Intelligence and Human Resource Adaptability to Employee Performance: The Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction

Muhamad Tamam Ripai — 2025-10-04

This study analyzes the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) utilization and human resource (HR) adaptability on employee performance, with job satisfaction as a mediating variable in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Malang City. Using a quantitative explanatory design, data were collected from 88 purposively selected respondents and analyzed with Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that AI utilization and HR adaptability significantly increase job satisfaction, which positively affects employee performance. HR adaptability also directly improves performance, while AI utilization does not show a direct effect but has an indirect impact through job satisfaction. Furthermore, job satisfaction mediates the influence of AI utilization and HR adaptability on employee performance. These findings confirm that the effectiveness of AI in MSMEs depends on employees' Adaptability and satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of strengthening HR adaptability and managing job satisfaction to optimize AI adoption and enhance MSME competitiveness in the digital era.

Working Conditions of the Street Vendors in Bara Bazar, Aizawl City, Mizoram, India

Lalnghakmawia Thangluah — 2025-10-07

Street vending is a global phenomenon and a vital part of the informal urban economy, offering livelihood opportunities to low-income populations through easy entry, low capitalization, and self-employment. This study examines the socio-demographic profile, occupational characteristics, and working conditions of street vendors in Bara Bazar, Aizawl City, Mizoram. Primary data were collected from 148 vendors through structured interviews and random sampling, supported by secondary sources. Findings reveal inadequate sanitation, limited access to drinking water, poor shelter, harassment, and safety risks. Despite their significant economic contributions, many vendors with low educational attainment remain excluded from formal employment and work in unhealthy, unsafe environments, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure, legal protection, and inclusive urban policies to safeguard their health and livelihoods.

Conducting Comparisons to Analyze Financial Reality under the Umbrella of the Kruskal-Wallis Test: Evidence from the Saudi Financial Market

Hussam Ali Abdel-Sada Al-Ghazali — 2025-10-08

The study aims to analyze the financial reality of industrial companies listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange (SSE) to analyze sectoral differences using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. A comparative design was adopted to investigate the reality of industrial companies across different sectors using financial indicators to identify significant differences. The study focused on industrial companies listed on the SSE during 2024 in the basic materials, capital goods, and long-term commodities sectors. Financial data was collected for fifteen companies distributed across three main sectors, and the Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine whether there were significant statistical differences in three key financial indicators: net profit, net assets, and market value. The results reveal statistically significant differences between the sectors studied, with the capital goods sector recording the highest financial performance, while the long-term commodities sector showed the lowest performance. These results underscore the need to apply non-parametric methods to uncover significant differences that financial methods may fail to detect. The study concluded by integrating statistical and financial strategies to achieve accurate and reliable results, thus providing investors and financial analysts with a better understanding of the decision-making process.

From Investment to Reciprocity: Role of Training and Professional Development on Faculty Commitment in Bangladeshi Private University

Kanis Fatema — 2025-10-08

This research explores the connection between training, professional development, and organizational commitment within faculties of private universities in Bangladesh, using Social Exchange Theory (SET) as the guiding framework. The study specifically examines how institutional support for faculty development influences three key dimensions of commitment: affective, continuance, and normative by using SET which is not done previously. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire administered to 284 academic staff members from nine private universities in Dhaka. The responses were analyzed using SPSS and Smart PLS 4.0 software. Reliability and validity checks indicated strong internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha ranging from 0.710 to 0.817, composite reliability between 0.785 and 0.878, and average variance extracted (AVE) values from 0.550 to 0.652. Results from the structural model revealed that training and development had a significant and positive impact on affective commitment, continuance commitment and normative. These outcomes suggest that when institutions actively invest in faculty development, employees respond with increased emotional engagement, a stronger sense of loyalty, and reduced intentions to leave, reflecting the reciprocal nature of SET. From a practical perspective, the findings emphasize the importance for educational policymakers and university administrators to view faculty development not just as a cost, but as a long-term strategic investment. On a theoretical level, the study expands the scope of Social Exchange Theory by demonstrating that professional development serves both practical and symbolic roles in fostering commitment, improving teaching quality, and ensuring institutional sustainability.

Mobile Banking Service Quality and Customer Retention among Commercial Banks in Kenya

Obed Kipruto Ronoh — 2025-10-08

Globally, the banking industry is confronted with a competitive atmosphere. Therefore, it is imperative for banks to not only meet but significantly surpass consumers' expectations in order to secure customer loyalty. Enhancing client loyalty improves the likelihood of customer retention. In addition, in today’s globalised world, banks are compelled to embrace new technologies in their processes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of mobile banking service quality dimensions on customer retention among commercial banks in Kenya. Data was collected using a self-administered and closed-ended questionnaire from a sample of 400 customers. Both the dependent and the independent variable were measured on a five-point Likert scale. The rating was 1 “strongly disagree”, 5 “strongly agree”. Study findings revealed that the efficiency of mobile banking services had a positive and significant effect on customer retention (β= 0.469, ρ=0.00<0.05), hence hypothesis 1 was accepted. Results indicated that flexibility had a positive and significant effect on customer retention (β = 0.202, ρ=0.00>0.05), hence hypothesis 2 holds. The study therefore concluded that for each unit increase in flexibility, there is up to 0.202 units’ increase in customer retention. Moreover, security had a positive and significant effect on customer retention (β = 0.121, ρ<0.05); hence, hypothesis 4 was accepted. However, the cost of the mobile banking service had a negative and significant effect on customer retention. Hence, it is imperative for banks to improve their mobile banking service quality. The study suggests that banks should leverage mobile banking service quality to improve customer satisfaction and retention, which may drive long-term profitability.

The Impact of Official Development Assistance on Reducing Maternal Mortality Rate in Asian-Pacific Developing Countries

Htet Htet Kyaw — 2025-10-09

The study explores the relationship between Official Development Assistance (ODA) and maternal mortality in 24 developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite significant progress in development in many high-income nations, developing countries still face persistent challenges, particularly in maternal health, with rising maternal mortality rates. This research aims to investigate the impact of ODA on reducing maternal mortality in these countries over a period spanning from 2000 to 2020. Utilizing panel data for 24 developing Asian-Pacific countries, the study adopts a quantitative and explanatory approach, employing purposive sampling based on the classification of countries as low-income or lower-middle-income. The analysis was conducted using STATA 18.0, with a focus on a fixed effects model, followed by the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to confirm the robustness of the results. Secondary data for the analysis were sourced from the World Bank (WB) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The findings of the study reveal a significant negative correlation between Net Official Development Assistance (NODA) and maternal mortality rates. Furthermore, factors such as HIV prevalence and access to sanitation services were found to influence maternal health outcomes. Specifically, higher HIV prevalence was linked to higher maternal mortality, while improved sanitation services contributed to a reduction in maternal deaths. Interestingly, the study found that GDP growth was positively correlated with maternal mortality, which suggests that economic growth alone may not be sufficient to reduce maternal deaths. This finding emphasizes the complexity of the relationship between economic development and health outcomes, highlighting that economic growth needs to be complemented by targeted interventions in healthcare, education, and sanitation. The study concludes that for long-term improvements in maternal health outcomes, effective aid management, institutional reforms, and robust monitoring systems are crucial. Policymakers in developing countries should recognize the interconnectedness of economic growth, education, healthcare infrastructure, and sanitation services when designing strategies to reduce maternal mortality. Moreover, international aid, particularly NODA, plays a vital role in improving maternal health outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Therefore, the study advocates for a comprehensive and coordinated approach that combines both domestic policy improvements and international support to achieve sustainable reductions in maternal mortality.

Dividend Policy, Profitability and ERP Implementation as Determinants of Stock Price Volatility: Evidence from Indonesia

Nur Asiyah Febriana — 2025-10-09

Aims: This study examines the effect of Dividend Payout Ratio (DPR), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation, and profitability measured by Return on Assets (ROA) on stock price volatility in companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX).

Study Design: A quantitative approach with panel data regression is applied to firms observed during 2022–2024.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: The study was conducted on IDX-listed companies across all sectors during the 2022–2024 observation period.

Methodology: the sample consists of firms with available secondary data on ERP, ROA, DPR, and stock volatility. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, classical assumption tests, and panel regression with E-views 12.

Results: The findings show that higher DPR is associated with lower stock volatility, supporting the dividend signaling theory that dividends convey stability and positive prospects to investors. ERP implementation has no significant effect, yet its role in enhancing transparency and operational efficiency highlights potential contributions to market efficiency. ROA also shows no significant impact, suggesting that profitability is not a primary driver of volatility.

Conclusion: Dividend policy emerges as the most relevant factor in reducing volatility, while ERP provides a non-financial perspective on risk through improved disclosure. These insights benefit both managers in strategy formulation and investors in assessing risk-return trade-offs.

Strategic Intelligence and Sustainable Marketing Performance: Evidence from Jordan’s Industrial Sector

TAREQ N. HASHEM — 2025-10-11

This study aims to explore how strategic intelligence affects sustainable marketing efforts. People now recognize that strategic intelligence - the ability to gather, examine, and apply information for smart choices - plays a key role in running sustainable businesses. We used a numbers-based approach to assess strategic intelligence's impact on achieving sustainable marketing plans. Our study focused on Marketing Managers in Jordan's industrial firms.

We picked a convenience sample of 400 marketing managers to answer our survey. In the end, we got 321 usable responses to analyze. Our results show that strategic intelligence and influences sustainable marketing, which matters for both a company's marketing and overall strategy. We suggest that Jordanian industrial businesses boost their strategic intelligence plans by putting money into advanced analysis tools and new tech.

Strategic Drivers of Supermarket Sustainability: Evidence from Nairobi County

Olive S. Masika — 2025-10-11

With the growing emphasis on sustainability in modern business practices, this research set out to examine the main strategic factors that shape the long-term viability of supermarkets in Nairobi County. The study particularly focused on how marketing strategies and technological progress influence sustainability within the retail sector. The investigation was anchored on Ansoff’s Growth Strategies and the Dynamic Capabilities Theory, which provided the conceptual foundation. The study used a descriptive research approach to accomplish its goals, enabling a thorough evaluation of the elements that were found. Using stratified random selection, 107 individuals who took part were selected from the 147 people in the research's target group, which was spread throughout many stores in Nairobi County. Structured questionnaires were used in gathering primary data; they were given out immediately and then gathered for analysis. SPSS software was used to code, arrange, and process the replies. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. The study revealed that supermarket sustainability was significantly and favorably impacted by marketing tactics. Hence, the study concluded that competitiveness, technology adoption, marketing tactics, and research and innovation are important factors that influence how sustainable supermarkets are in Nairobi County. To enhance service delivery, the supermarkets should make use of customer-related data, especially in areas like home delivery, customization, and reaction to consumer feedback. This would allow supermarkets to understand customer preferences, gather broad market intelligence, and design marketing programs that effectively respond to consumer needs and changing market dynamics.

Challenges on Accessibility of Financial Products on SMEs’ in Tanzania: A Case of Selected Banks in Iringa Municipality

Dorothea Godfrey Msafiri — 2025-10-13

This study investigates the social challenges affecting the accessibility of financial products for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania. Despite SMEs being crucial to economic growth, they face significant barriers, particularly related to gender, financial literacy, and cultural attitudes toward debt. The research identifies a knowledge gap in understanding how these social issues specifically impact SMEs in Iringa, contrasting with findings from urban centers like Dar es Salaam. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data from 100 SME owners and qualitative insights from 10 bank officials. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Findings reveal that 75% of respondents acknowledge limited financial literacy and negative cultural perceptions significantly hinder SMEs' access to formal financial services. Furthermore, gender-based discrimination in loan approval processes disproportionately affects women entrepreneurs, reducing their opportunities for business growth. The study concludes that addressing these social challenges, especially gender-related barriers and access to information, is essential for improving SMEs’ participation in formal financial systems. Programs targeting awareness, empowerment, and gender equality will be critical in overcoming these constraints. Recommendations include enhancing financial literacy programs tailored for SMEs, promoting gender-sensitive lending practices, and fostering community awareness to shift cultural perceptions around debt. Addressing these social challenges is essential for improving financial inclusion and empowering SMEs in Iringa Municipality.

Impact of Employee Relations on Organizations Performance in Tanzania: A Case of VETA-Mara

Rizi Amiri Freddy — 2025-10-15

Aims: This study examined the impact of employee relations on organizations performance in VETA – Mara region. The study was guided by following specific objectives; to examine the effect of communication on organizations performance, to examine the effect of employee’s engagement on organizations performance and to examine the effect of employee conflict resolution on organizations.

Study Design: The explanatory design was used.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) – Mara region in Tanzania, between June 2024 and July 2025.

Methodology: The study adopted a positivism research philosophy, Quantitative approach and the explanatory design was used. 186 samples were drawn from a population of 372 using stratified random sampling technique. The questionnaires were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regressions were used as data analysis instruments.

Results: The study found that communication was positive strong and significantly correlated to organizations performance. Employee’s engagement was positive strong and significantly correlated to organizations performance and Employee conflict resolution was as well positive strong and significantly correlated to organizations performance.

Conclusion: The study concluded that open communication and the seamless exchange of information play a crucial role in enhancing organizational performance. Furthermore, organizations engage employees in the decision-making process and establish formal disciplinary measures to prevent conflicts.

Crowdfunding as an Alternative Entrepreneurial Financing Scheme in Ghana: A Narrative Review

Mustapha Bin Usman — 2025-09-28

Research Gap: While extant research on crowdfunding is prevalent in developed economies, a significant knowledge gap exists regarding its feasibility and implementation in the context of developing nations like Ghana.

Purpose: This study assesses the feasibility of crowdfunding as an alternative entrepreneurial financing mechanism in Ghana by examining, among others, the critical barriers of public awareness, social trust, and regulatory readiness.

Methodology: An integrative review method was applied, synthesising the findings of 68 selected sources, including journal articles, reports, and books, published between 2002 and 2022.

Findings: This analysis shows that the feasibility of crowdfunding is limited by low levels of public awareness and three major barriers: (1) a deep deficit of social trust caused by sufficient fears of fraud and cybercrimes; (2) underdeveloped regulatory frameworks and institutional capacity; and (3) technological infrastructure constraints.

Practical Implications: A conscious collaboration between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) is recommended to have a robust, flexible regulatory framework that must protect funders, give power to entrepreneurs, and, in effect, stimulate the ultimate adoption of crowdfunding as one facet of Ghana's entrepreneurial financing paradigm.

Originality/Value: This paper provides a new, holistic approach to analysing the Ghanaian crowdfunding environment, going beyond the assessment of isolated challenges and instead viewing them from the systemic lens of interconnection. It provides timely, contextual knowledge for policy actors. It argues that unless there is a concerted effort to build trust, create enabling regulations, and invest in infrastructure, the true potential of crowdfunding will never be realised. It presents timely insights to policymakers and lays the foundational framework for steering future empirical investigations into digital alternative finance in emerging economies.

Tourism in Tamil Nadu: Trends, Challenges and Strategic Directions

P. Sudharani — 2025-10-08

One of India's most popular tourist destinations, Tamil Nadu is well-known for its magnificent architecture, ancient customs, hallowed pilgrimage sites, and varied natural settings. Attracting millions of tourists from all across India and the world, the state occupies a unique position as a center of culture and religion. Its distinctive combination of centuries old temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immaculate beaches, verdant hill stations, and lively festivals keeps bringing in big crowds of visitors. Due to its wide range of attractions and solid reputation, Tamil Nadu has always maintained a top spot in both local and international visitor arrivals. To proactive government policies, infrastructure investments, better marketing strategies, and growing international interest in medical tourism, yoga, Siddha, and wellness-based travel, Tamil Nadu's tourism industry has seen a notable increase in both arrivals and revenue over the past ten years. This impetus has also been aided by the growth of transportation networks, lodging options, and cultural preservation initiatives. Notwithstanding these successes, a number of enduring difficulties still exist. Seamless travel experiences are still hampered by problems such poor last-mile connectivity, traffic at well-known locations, a lack of sanitary facilities, environmental damage, and the unequal distribution of tourism advantages across regions. Furthermore, delicate natural and cultural resources are under stress as a result of increased visitor demand. This essay examines the general development of Tamil Nadu's tourist industry, following its historical foundations, trends in growth, and legislative frameworks. In addition to critically analyzing the limitations that restrict the state's tourism potential, it analyzes the key facilitators that have influenced its success. Lastly, it makes recommendations for strategic actions meant to improve competitiveness, ensure inclusivity, and strengthen sustainability all of which will position Tamil Nadu as a leader in tourism numbers as well as a model for ethical and community-focused travel in the years to come.

Earnings Management and Financial Reporting: A Review of Techniques and Consequences

Grace Toluwalope Ogunleti — 2025-10-09

The discussion of this review of works in the field of earnings management explains the contemporary setting of this research topic by undertaking the means by which firms use it and the effect on quality of financial reporting. We combine findings of 30 studies on accrual-based and real earnings management practices in a diverse sample of international markets published in 2023–2024. We discuss how detection methods, including machine learning, have developed and how corporate governance may be applied to restrict opportunistic reporting practices. According to the review, it implies that there are pertinent implications on the decision-making of stakeholders, the efficiency of the marketplace, and the regulation. The important findings indicate that the management of real earnings becomes more common, the forms of detection are increasingly more advanced and performance of various forms of governance mechanisms in various institutional circumstances is different. We observe convergence of earnings management and ESG reporting, the use of technology to aid in detection and inconsistency of effective regulation in institutional settings. The relevance of the review lies in the fact that it provides a systematic method of understanding the present earnings management scale of practice and its impacts on financial reporting transparency and offers future-policy development and research suggestions.

Total Factor Productivity: A Study on Digital Finance Development of Some Enterprises in Chinese Economy

Jiao Yiqing — 2025-09-24

Total Factor Productivity (TFP) is a crucial indicator for measuring economic production efficiency and a key determinant of whether China's economy can achieve high-quality development. As a new form of technology-driven empowerment, digital finance serves as a cornerstone of digital economic development and exerts a significant impact on enhancing the TFP of Chinese enterprises. In order to explore the impact mechanism of digital finance in the total factor productivity of Chinese enterprises, this study utilizes data from A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen, covering the period from 2011 to 2018. By employing two TFP estimation methods, namely the OP (Olley-Pakes) method and the LP (Levinsohn-Petrin) method, it explores the empowering effect of digital finance on enterprise TFP. The main research conclusions of this paper are as follows: Empirical results demonstrate that the development of digital finance has a positive empowering impact on enterprise TFP, and this conclusion remains valid even after addressing endogeneity issues and conducting robustness tests. Heterogeneity tests reveal that digital finance exerts a more pronounced empowering effect on the TFP of non-state-owned enterprises. Therefore, during this critical transition period, China should vigorously promote the development of digital finance, foster the integrated innovation of the digital economy and the real economy, and thereby advance the high-quality development of China's economy. The significance of this study lies in effectively expanding the theoretical boundary of the current research field and deepening the study on the external influencing factors of enterprise productivity theory. Specific recommendations put forward in this study include: strengthening the construction of digital financial infrastructure; enhancing the cultivation of talents in the financial sector; improving the digital financial regulatory system; and seizing development opportunities.

The Role of Machine Learning (ML) in Predicting Consumer Behaviour: Innovation or Violation?

Marta Warsewicz — 2025-10-11

This paper explores the dual role of Machine Learning (ML) in predicting consumer behavior within e-commerce. ML technologies have driven innovation by enabling personalized recommendations, targeted marketing, dynamic pricing, inventory optimization, and fraud detection—enhancing both customer experience and operational efficiency. At the same time, these advancements raise critical ethical concerns, including privacy invasion, manipulation of consumer choices, algorithmic bias, and lack of transparency. As a Commentary / Opinion Article, this work examines how these risks intersect with the growing reliance on predictive algorithms in digital marketplaces. It argues that while ML offers immense opportunities for growth and innovation, its implementation must be guided by robust ethical frameworks and regulatory oversight. The discussion emphasizes responsible data use, algorithmic transparency, and consumer empowerment to ensure that ML remains a tool for innovation rather than exploitation.