In the knowledge era, intellectual capital has been considered a key factor in creating value within organisations. This study examines the relationships and interactions between the components of intellectual capital and the profitability of Panamanian banking, and financial institutions listed on the Latin American Stock Exchange (LATINEX) from 2014 to 2020. Utilising the Valued-Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC)™ model, which evaluates the intellectual capital of organisations based on information from financial statements, the study constructs a regression model to examine the relationship between the Return on Equity (ROE) and the components of the VAIC™. The findings confirm the study’s hypothesis, demonstrating that the Structural Capital Efficiency (SCE) and company size (SIZE) variables explain 57% of the variance in ROE for the analysed institutions. The results suggest that the Intellectual Capital (IC) of financial sector institutions listed on LATINEX is significantly influenced by the SCE coefficient, which shows a negative relationship, suggesting that investment in structural capital does not enhance profitability. On the other hand, larger institutions exhibited higher profitability during the study period.

Startups often face uncertainty and the potential Valley of Death. To address these challenges, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can serve as a starting point to identify business opportunities in markets driven by SDG-related issues, which is, in this case, using Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a “painkiller.” This study aims to explore VR use cases and their implications for startup business models and discover a problem-solution fit—defined as the degree to which VR applications effectively address actual problems as “killer applications.” The study employs a customized customer discovery technique, an essential process in the Customer Development methodology. By exploring VR's applicability in various domains such as entertainment, training, education, and tourism, this study unveils compelling use cases that align with SDG aspects, thus validating the hypothesis on startups' potential to harness VR for SDG contributions. Furthermore, the study produces VR business model designs based on solutions to SDG-related problems. Thus, startups can function effectively as “painkillers,” offering solutions that are not only desired but urgently needed (problem-solution fit). The implications of these findings extend globally, underlining VR's role in addressing SDG issues and offering practical insights for startup business model development that are applicable to broader technology adoptions.

Digital marketing adoption in the multinational Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector presents both challenges and opportunities that significantly impact organizational strategies and market competitiveness. This qualitative study explores the complexities surrounding digital marketing adoption through interviews with 45 participants from multinational FMCG companies. The research investigates key barriers such as organizational resistance, technological constraints, and concerns over data privacy and security, while also examining the benefits of enhanced consumer engagement, global market reach, and data-driven decision making. Findings reveal that organizational resistance remains a formidable barrier, driven by senior management's cautious approach to digital transformation and concerns over return on investment (ROI) amidst rapidly evolving digital landscapes. Technological challenges, including outdated systems and limited budgets for technology upgrades, further hinder comprehensive digital integration. Moreover, navigating regulatory frameworks and addressing consumer trust in data privacy emerge as critical considerations for FMCG companies seeking to leverage digital strategies effectively. Conversely, digital marketing adoption offers substantial opportunities. Enhanced consumer engagement through personalized and interactive campaigns allows companies to strengthen brand-consumer relationships and foster loyalty. The global reach facilitated by digital platforms enables multinational FMCG firms to expand market presence, penetrate new markets, and adapt marketing strategies to diverse consumer preferences worldwide. Data-driven decision making emerges as pivotal, leveraging analytics to optimize marketing strategies, measure campaign effectiveness, and anticipate consumer behaviors in real-time. Strategies for overcoming barriers emphasize building internal digital capabilities through training, recruitment, and cross-functional collaboration. Aligning digital strategies with overarching business objectives and integrating digital efforts with traditional marketing channels are crucial for creating cohesive and effective campaigns. Embracing innovation, flexibility, and agility in adapting to technological advancements are essential for maintaining competitiveness and relevance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Looking forward, emerging trends such as AI and machine learning integration for predictive analytics, sustainability-focused marketing initiatives, and the evolution towards omnichannel strategies are poised to reshape digital marketing practices in the FMCG sector. By aligning strategies with these trends, FMCG companies can harness digital technologies to drive sustainable growth, enhance market competitiveness, and meet evolving consumer expectations in a digitally-driven global marketplace.

This study explores the strategic importance of leveraging supplier relationships for competitive advantage in the e-commerce industry. Strong supplier relationships are crucial for enhancing operational efficiencies, cost management, quality assurance, innovation, sustainability, and overall supply chain resilience. Through collaborative partnerships, e-commerce companies can streamline logistics, reduce costs, ensure consistent product quality, and foster innovation through joint development initiatives. Ethical sourcing and sustainable practices play a pivotal role in supplier relationship management (SRM), aligning with consumer expectations and enhancing brand reputation. Advanced technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IoT further transform SRM practices by improving transparency, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities across the supply chain. The study also discusses challenges in managing global supplier relationships, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, cultural sensitivity, and strategic risk management. By addressing these challenges and nurturing trust-based relationships with suppliers, e-commerce firms can navigate market complexities and achieve sustainable growth. This research provides insights for e-commerce companies seeking to optimize their supplier relationships and maintain competitive advantage in a dynamic market environment.

Market crises pose significant challenges for businesses, emphasizing the importance of effective crisis management strategies. Central to these strategies is the ability to identify and retain loyal customers, who often serve as the bedrock of stability during tumultuous times. This paper investigates the application of deep meta-learning analysis to predict loyal customers as a cornerstone of market crisis management. Drawing upon an extensive literature review, the study explores previous research on market crises, customer loyalty, and the evolution of deep learning and meta-learning in crisis management contexts. Methodologically, the paper outlines data collection, model development, and evaluation procedures tailored for deep meta-learning-based customer prediction. In results, the overall accuracy of model 85%, a precision 0.88, recall 0.82, and F1-score 0.85 were obtained. The analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of deep meta-learning models in accurately identifying loyal customers during market crises, offering insights into their performance and applicability compared to traditional methods. Practical implications include potential applications in crisis management for businesses and considerations for real-world implementation.

This qualitative study explores the pivotal role of trust in supplier relationships from the perspectives of procurement professionals. Through in-depth interviews with diverse industry stakeholders, the research examines the multifaceted nature of trust, its antecedents, dynamics, challenges, and strategic implications within modern supply chain management. Trust is conceptualized as a cornerstone that fosters collaborative exchanges, mitigates risks, and enhances organizational resilience in a competitive global marketplace. Findings highlight key factors influencing trust formation, including effective communication, ethical conduct, relationship history, transparency, and cultural alignment. Challenges such as perceived opportunism, communication breakdowns, and regulatory compliance issues are identified as barriers requiring proactive management strategies. Strategies for building and maintaining trust emphasize proactive engagement, transparent decision-making, performance evaluation, mutual benefit alignment, and effective conflict management. The study further explores the impact of trust on procurement decisions, supplier performance, innovation capabilities, cost efficiencies, and long-term sustainability. Practically, the research underscores the importance of integrating trust-building initiatives into supplier relationship management strategies to optimize operational efficiencies, foster innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. By aligning procurement practices with supplier capabilities and market dynamics, organizations can navigate complexities, seize opportunities, and enhance strategic partnerships that drive mutual value creation. Future research directions include exploring emerging trends such as digitalization, sustainability, and ethical considerations in trust-based supply chain interactions.

This qualitative study investigates the management of supplier risks in e-commerce through relationship management strategies, focusing on trust-building, communication practices, digital technology integration, risk assessment methodologies, challenges, innovation initiatives, and ethical considerations. The research aims to provide nuanced insights into how e-commerce companies navigate the complexities of global supply chains to mitigate operational, financial, and reputational risks associated with supplier relationships. Through semi-structured interviews with 20 key stakeholders in the e-commerce sector, data were collected and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings underscored the foundational role of trust in establishing resilient supplier relationships, facilitated by transparent communication, consistent performance evaluation, and mutual respect for contractual obligations. Effective communication practices, supported by digital platforms and technologies such as AI, blockchain, IoT, and cloud computing, enhanced operational transparency and decision-making capabilities across supply chains. The study identified diverse approaches to risk assessment, from qualitative evaluations to quantitative models utilizing predictive analytics and scenario planning. However, participants highlighted challenges including geopolitical uncertainties, trade disruptions, regulatory changes, and cultural barriers, necessitating adaptive strategies and diversified sourcing options. Innovation initiatives such as joint product development and technology adoption were crucial in enhancing supply chain agility and competitive advantage. Ethical considerations emerged as a critical aspect, influencing supplier selection criteria, CSR initiatives, environmental sustainability practices, and labor standards compliance. Integrating ethical guidelines into supplier contracts reinforced corporate values and enhanced brand reputation. Overall, this study contributes practical implications for e-commerce practitioners seeking to enhance supply chain resilience, mitigate supplier risks, and sustain competitive advantage in a dynamic global marketplace.

Currently, banks are facing challenges in fulfilling the interests of stakeholders, not only from the economic point of view but also from the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects. This is due to the increasing concern for sustainability issues, including in lending activities. Lending activities constitute the largest portion of bank assets and are the largest contributor to bank revenues. Thus, banks need certain business models and strategies to encourage sustainable lending growth. This study aimed to build a sustainable business model and selection of sustainable lending strategies in state-owned banks in In-donesia using a value chain approach. The development of a sustainable business model utilized triple layer business model canvas (TLBMC) is based on the results of previous re-search and sustainability reports data of the three state-owned banks. Formulation of strat-egy selection as key drivers to drive sustainable lending utilized analytical hierarchy pro-cess (AHP) based on expert respondent data collected through questionnaires. This re-search showed that the lending distribution business model at state-owned banks in Indonesia, which was built using the TLBMC framework, can realize sustainability goals in the form of a sustainable lending business model. Furthermore, this sustainable business model can be used as a basis for selecting sustainable strategies. In addition, the AHP results obtained alternative strategies in the form of green loan and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) market development and penetration as the key drivers of sustainable lending growth.

This study investigates the impact of Government Consumption (GC) on Saudi Arabia’s GDP during major economic crises from 1969 to 2022, with a focus on periods marked by fluctuations in oil and non-oil revenues. By integrating these revenue streams, the research provides a more comprehensive analysis of fiscal policy effectiveness during economic downturns. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study reveals the complex role of Government Consumption (GC) in stabilizing and stimulating the Saudi economy amidst revenue volatility.Key findings indicate that while GC does not significantly influence GDP in the short term, its long-term effectiveness varies across different crises. Specifically, GC has acted as a buffer against immediate economic shocks during certain crises while providing a stimulus for economic recovery in others. For instance, during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, timely fiscal measures significantly boosted GDP, underscoring the importance of adaptive and proactive fiscal policies. Conversely, the 2014-2016 oil price collapse demonstrated that GC alone was insufficient to counteract economic downturns, emphasizing the need for diversified revenue strategies.These findings underscore the dual role of GC in economic stabilization and recovery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GC played a crucial role in both mitigating negative economic impacts and supporting recovery efforts, showcasing its effectiveness in times of global disruptions. This demonstrates GC's capability as an immediate buffer against economic shocks and a stimulus for economic recovery. In contrast, during the 2014-2016 oil price collapse, GC was less effective, indicating the limitations of relying solely on government spending without broader economic diversification. This highlights the necessity of diversified revenue strategies to complement fiscal measures for long-term economic resilience.The robustness of the findings was ensured through various diagnostic tests, including checks for autocorrelation, heteroskedasticity, and stationarity of residuals. The absence of significant autocorrelation and heteroskedasticity, along with the stationarity of differenced variables, confirms the validity of the econometric models used.The study contributes to the discourse on fiscal policy in oil-dependent economies by illustrating the critical role of diversified revenue strategies and adaptive fiscal measures in enhancing economic resilience. Recommendations are offered for policymakers to optimize fiscal strategies, ensuring robust economic recovery and long-term stability in volatile markets. This research highlights the necessity for Saudi Arabia to refine its fiscal policies towards greater economic diversification and stability.

This qualitative study investigates the influence of organizational culture on procurement practices across multiple industries, aiming to enrich understanding of how cultural dynamics shape decision-making, supplier relationships, and strategic outcomes within procurement departments. Through semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals, organizational leaders, and industry experts, data were gathered to explore the impact of leadership styles, ethical frameworks, industry dynamics, and external influences on procurement strategies. Findings reveal that transformational leadership fosters innovation, strategic alignment, and long-term partnerships in procurement, whereas transactional and autocratic styles may prioritize cost efficiency over broader strategic goals. Ethical cultures within organizations significantly influence supplier selection criteria and procurement decisions, highlighting the importance of integrating ethical standards consistently to mitigate risks and enhance organizational reputation. Industry-specific dynamics necessitate adaptive procurement strategies tailored to technological advancements, regulatory requirements, and market conditions. Effective supplier relationship management practices, emphasizing trust, transparency, and mutual value creation, enhance procurement effectiveness and resilience. Organizational structures, including centralized, decentralized, and hybrid models, play crucial roles in optimizing procurement operations. Learning cultures promoting continuous improvement and knowledge sharing foster innovation and resilience in procurement practices. External factors such as market volatility, regulatory changes, and geopolitical risks underscore the need for adaptive procurement strategies and robust risk management practices. This study contributes to theoretical insights and practical implications for aligning organizational culture with strategic procurement objectives to optimize effectiveness, mitigate risks, and drive sustainable value creation across supply chains.

This research investigates the pivotal role of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) in enhancing e-commerce scalability. SRM practices are essential for optimizing supply chain operations and fostering strategic partnerships with suppliers, crucial in the dynamic and competitive e-commerce landscape. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies, expert interviews, and secondary data, the study examines how leading e-commerce companies such as Amazon and Alibaba implement effective SRM strategies to achieve scalability. Key findings reveal that strategic supplier selection based on capabilities and alignment with business goals, coupled with continuous evaluation and development programs, ensures consistent supply chain performance and customer satisfaction. Technological advancements, including data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, play a transformative role in modern SRM by enhancing transparency, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, automated processes, and risk mitigation strategies that bolster supply chain resilience and operational efficiency. Best practices in SRM, such as clear performance metrics, a culture of continuous improvement, and ethical sourcing policies, are critical for driving supplier accountability, innovation, and sustainability. Moreover, sustainability emerges as a growing priority in SRM, with businesses integrating environmental and social considerations into supplier management strategies to meet regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations. Theoretical frameworks like the Resource-Based View and Transaction Cost Economics provide insights into the strategic implications of SRM, emphasizing its role in fostering competitive advantage and long-term business success. As e-commerce continues to evolve, businesses must adapt and innovate in their SRM approaches to navigate global supply chain complexities effectively. By prioritizing effective SRM practices, leveraging advanced technologies, and embracing sustainability, businesses can enhance their scalability, resilience, and competitiveness in the digital economy.

This study explores the dynamics of transparency and accountability in supplier relationship management (SRM) within the e-commerce sector. It investigates how e-commerce platforms and their suppliers navigate complexities to foster trust, enhance collaboration, and ensure ethical practices in global supply chains. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with industry stakeholders to gather insights into current practices, challenges, and strategies in SRM. Findings highlight transparency as pivotal for sharing critical information such as sales forecasts, inventory levels, and pricing strategies, enabling suppliers to align operations with market demands effectively. However, achieving transparency faces hurdles including data privacy concerns and competitive sensitivities, necessitating robust data security measures and clear communication protocols. Accountability mechanisms, such as formal agreements and governance frameworks, emerge as essential for mitigating risks, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards across diverse contexts. Technological innovations like AI, blockchain, and big data analytics are transforming SRM by enhancing supply chain visibility, operational efficiency, and decision-making capabilities. Cultural factors and regulatory compliance also significantly influence SRM practices, shaping communication styles, relationship dynamics, and legal considerations. Emerging trends such as sustainable sourcing practices and collaborative partnerships are reshaping SRM, emphasizing sustainability and responsible business practices. This study contributes to the understanding of effective SRM strategies, offering insights and recommendations for stakeholders navigating the complexities of e-commerce supply chains.

Supplier diversity initiatives in procurement have emerged as strategic imperatives for organizations aiming to enhance competitiveness and foster socio-economic equity. This research investigates the impact of supplier diversity initiatives across various industries, analyzing implementation strategies, challenges, and outcomes through a mixed-methods approach. Qualitative data, including interviews with procurement professionals and case studies of exemplary organizations, reveal diverse approaches to implementing supplier diversity—from formalized programs with dedicated resources to ad hoc initiatives driven by regulatory compliance or social responsibility goals. Challenges identified include the identification and qualification of diverse suppliers, scalability issues, and internal resistance within procurement teams. Quantitative analysis of survey data highlights positive impacts on organizational performance metrics, such as procurement spend allocation towards diverse suppliers, supplier-driven innovation, and enhanced supply chain resilience. Best practices in successful supplier diversity programs underscore strategic alignment with overall procurement strategies, effective supplier relationship management, and strong leadership commitment. Socio-economic impacts encompass economic inclusion, community engagement, and skills development among diverse supplier networks, contributing to local economic growth and broader social benefits. Despite these benefits, challenges remain in measuring qualitative outcomes and overcoming systemic barriers to implementation. Cultivating an inclusive organizational culture and leveraging leadership support are crucial for sustaining supplier diversity efforts. Continued collaboration and innovation in supplier diversity practices are recommended to maximize benefits and drive meaningful socio-economic impact globally.

This qualitative research investigates sustainable procurement practices, focusing on the integration of environmental and social criteria in supplier evaluation processes. The study explores how organizations, ranging from large multinational corporations to smaller enterprises, navigate sustainability challenges and opportunities within their procurement strategies. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals and sustainability managers across diverse industries. Themes identified include varying organizational commitments to sustainability, from structured policies and resource allocation in larger firms to reactive approaches constrained by resource limitations in smaller entities. Effective supplier relationship management emerged as crucial, facilitating collaborative partnerships aimed at improving environmental and social performance across supply chains. Motivations for sustainable procurement practices encompass regulatory compliance and responding to consumer demands for eco-friendly products, shaping procurement decisions to enhance market competitiveness and stakeholder satisfaction. Environmental and social criteria integration in supplier evaluations highlighted strategies such as lifecycle assessments and sustainable sourcing practices, aimed at minimizing environmental footprints and promoting ethical labor practices. Benefits included cost savings and enhanced brand reputation, tempered by challenges such as higher procurement costs and supplier resistance. Leadership commitment and organizational culture were identified as critical enablers of sustainable procurement, influencing strategic alignment and fostering a culture of sustainability within organizations. The study underscores the transformative potential of sustainable procurement in achieving organizational resilience and contributing to global sustainability goals.

Effective management of supplier relationships is crucial for e-commerce companies to navigate complex supply chain dynamics and mitigate risks associated with supplier disputes. This qualitative study explores the strategies and challenges involved in resolving supplier disputes through relationship management in the context of e-commerce. Through semi-structured interviews with supply chain managers, procurement officers, and executives from diverse e-commerce firms, the study investigates key themes including communication strategies, trust-building initiatives, negotiation dynamics, technological integration, organizational culture, and global supply chain alignment. Findings reveal that clear and transparent communication plays a foundational role in preventing misunderstandings and fostering collaboration with suppliers. Trust-building initiatives, such as consistency in commitments and transparency in business dealings, are essential for cultivating resilient supplier relationships. Negotiation strategies emphasizing principled negotiation and collaborative problem-solving facilitate the resolution of disputes while preserving long-term partnerships. Technological integration through data analytics, automation, and digital platforms enhances operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities in managing supplier relationships. Organizational culture characterized by collaboration, innovation, and leadership commitment to strategic alignment with global supply chains promotes resilience and responsiveness to market dynamics. Challenges including power dynamics, operational constraints, and cultural differences underscore the importance of proactive risk management and cultural sensitivity in supplier relationship management. This study contributes actionable insights for practitioners to enhance supplier relationship management practices, navigate disputes effectively, and foster sustainable competitive advantage in e-commerce. By integrating these findings into strategic planning, e-commerce firms can strengthen supplier partnerships, optimize supply chain performance, and mitigate risks in a dynamic business environment.

The increasing adoption of student-centred learning environs by the institutions of higher education in business, has led to new mechanisms and methodologies such as the Simulation-Based Learning (SBL), Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Challenge-Based Learning (CBL). Literature has shown evidence of raising interest in these methodologies towards a more experiential paradigm with regard to upcoming events from the surrounding real-world context. This paper presents a Systematic Bibliographic Literature Review (SBLR) with respect to the integration and application of these innovative and collaborative methodologies in higher education. It aimed to identify its relevant advantages, challenges, and consequences for the future of business education. Bibliographic databases were searched for documents published up to May 2024 to categorize key topics discussed in the literature on SBL, PBL and CBL. The review process identified 89 empirical and non-empirical papers on SBL, PBL and CBL, business related paperwork, which resulted from the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method. PRISMA is a framework with evidence-based data designed to help authors perform a systematic literature review. Data analysis revealed diverse subthemes for those methodologies uses in business higher education institutions. The research questions “What are the advantages, challenges and implications of SBL, PBL and CBL altogether, in the training of business students?” guided the study. The central output of the research is the discovery of the varying uses of SBL, PBL and CBL overall, to cope with diverse demands arising within environmental context. Future research directions are suggested.

The Thrace region in Turkey is an important region where production suitable for irrigated agriculture such as sugar beet, paddy, sunflower and corn is widely carried out. Producers in the region have to decide on the product they will produce every year. A large number of factors that can affect decision-making in agricultural production can affect the outcome of the farmers. Therefore, it is necessary to have a decision-making process that can facilitate access to information and decision-making. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is a valuable decision-making methodology that can be applied not only in agricultural production but also in many other areas. This study evaluates four products with the AHP method according to the criteria by surveying 271 producers in the area. The aim is to determine the most suitable products for planting in these areas. We found that rice is the product that provides the highest profit. The AHP model used in this study primarily serves to determine the importance levels of various criteria and demonstrates its effectiveness as a decision-making tool in product selection when the correct criteria are applied

This qualitative study explores the dynamics of supplier relationships among Italian restaurant managers, aiming to uncover the strategic practices and challenges in supplier relationship management (SRM) within the culinary industry. Through semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample of restaurant managers across Italy, the study examines how trust, communication, adaptive sourcing strategies, and innovation influence supplier interactions and operational outcomes. Findings reveal that trust-building is foundational to establishing reliable supplier partnerships, crucial for ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality ingredients essential for culinary excellence. Effective communication channels and negotiation techniques are pivotal in clarifying expectations, resolving conflicts, and fostering collaborative relationships with suppliers. Adaptive sourcing strategies, including diversification of supplier bases and local sourcing initiatives, enable managers to navigate market dynamics and meet consumer demands effectively. Innovation emerges as a catalyst for differentiation and sustainability in supplier relationships, with managers engaging in collaborative product development and embracing sustainability initiatives to align with consumer preferences and corporate values. Despite facing challenges such as pricing pressures, supply chain logistics complexities, and regulatory compliance, proactive management strategies and operational agility enable managers to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities in supplier management. Theoretical implications enrich understanding of SRM dynamics in the culinary sector, while practical implications suggest strategies for optimizing supplier relationships, enhancing operational efficiency, and sustaining competitive advantage. Future research could explore technological advancements, consumer trends, and longitudinal impacts of SRM practices on business performance within the restaurant industry.

This qualitative research explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) within the e-commerce sector. SRM is critical for e-commerce platforms to maintain efficient supply chains, optimize supplier interactions, and ensure competitive advantage in a dynamic marketplace. AI technologies offer advanced capabilities such as predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, and natural language processing, which revolutionize traditional SRM practices by enhancing decision-making accuracy, mitigating supply chain risks, and fostering personalized supplier relationships. Through semi-structured interviews with 20 e-commerce professionals and industry experts, this study investigates AI's impact on supplier selection, operational efficiencies, and strategic supplier relationships. Findings highlight AI's ability to streamline supplier evaluation processes, improve demand forecasting accuracy, and optimize inventory management strategies. AI also facilitates personalized supplier engagement through sentiment analysis and real-time insights, promoting collaboration and trust. Ethical considerations, including algorithmic bias and data privacy, emerge as significant concerns in AI adoption for SRM. Addressing these challenges is crucial to maintaining stakeholder trust and ensuring responsible AI deployment. Furthermore, technological integration barriers and organizational readiness are identified as critical factors influencing successful AI implementation. Looking forward, the study underscores the potential of AI to drive innovation and competitiveness in e-commerce SRM, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI practices, technological infrastructure investments, and organizational preparedness for sustainable growth.

This qualitative research explores the integration of digital technologies to enhance supplier engagement in e-commerce, examining the transformative impact of AI, blockchain, and IoT on supplier relationship management (SRM). Through semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis with 15 industry experts, the study reveals that digital technologies enable organizations to optimize supply chain operations, improve transparency, and foster collaborative partnerships with suppliers. Strategic initiatives such as co-development projects and joint innovation efforts are pivotal in accelerating product development cycles and enhancing market competitiveness. Emotional intelligence (EI) emerges as critical in cultivating trust, empathy, and effective communication, underscoring the human dimension of supplier relationships amidst technological advancements. Challenges identified include technological complexity, data privacy concerns, and resistance to change, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures and proactive compliance strategies. Economically, organizations benefit from significant cost savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced profitability through digital transformation initiatives in SRM. By leveraging digital platforms and data-driven insights, organizations can optimize procurement processes, streamline operations, and mitigate risks to achieve sustainable growth and resilience.

Supplier collaboration and partnership in procurement are essential elements for enhancing organizational efficiency, innovation, and resilience in today's globalized markets. This qualitative study investigates the dynamics of effective supplier relationships, focusing on trust, communication, innovation, quality, cost savings, and resilience as critical factors. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and document analysis across diverse industries, highlighting insights from procurement professionals and supplier representatives. Key findings underscore the foundational role of trust and communication in fostering successful collaborations. Establishing transparent, ongoing communication channels facilitates mutual understanding, reduces conflicts, and enhances overall satisfaction. Collaborative innovation emerged as pivotal, enabling organizations to pool resources and expertise for product development and process improvement. Quality and reliability were identified as significant outcomes of close partnerships, particularly in industries with stringent standards such as aerospace and healthcare. Furthermore, the study reveals substantial cost savings and efficiency gains through collaborative efforts in process optimization and waste reduction. Effective risk management practices within these partnerships enhance supply chain resilience, enabling organizations to anticipate and mitigate disruptions proactively. Despite these benefits, challenges such as cultural differences, technological integration, and regulatory compliance require strategic mitigation strategies. In conclusion, organizations can optimize supplier collaborations by prioritizing trust-building, fostering a culture of innovation, and investing in robust relationship management practices. This approach not only enhances operational performance but also positions organizations to navigate market uncertainties and achieve sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.

This qualitative study explores supplier selection criteria from the perspectives of procurement professionals across diverse industries. Supplier selection is crucial for organizational efficiency and performance, influenced by factors beyond traditional cost considerations. The research aims to uncover nuanced criteria such as quality assurance, supplier reliability, innovation capability, sustainability practices, strategic alignment, relational dynamics, and risk management strategies. These criteria reflect a shift towards holistic evaluation frameworks that integrate economic, social, and environmental dimensions in procurement decision-making. Methodologically, the study employed semi-structured interviews with 30 procurement professionals, ensuring depth and diversity in perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes and patterns, illuminating the complexities and strategic importance of supplier selection processes. Findings highlight the strategic role of suppliers in driving innovation, enhancing supply chain resilience, and supporting organizational goals. Moreover, the study underscores the significance of sustainable sourcing practices, ethical considerations, and effective supplier relationships in fostering long-term partnerships and mitigating operational risks. Practical implications suggest that organizations should adopt integrated approaches to supplier selection, leveraging data-driven insights and technological advancements to optimize decision-making. By prioritizing strategic alignment, fostering collaborative partnerships, and implementing robust risk management strategies, organizations can navigate uncertainties, capitalize on market opportunities, and sustain competitive advantage.

This paper examines the impact of random sample sizes on the extreme value theory of competing risks, a significant area in finance and environmental science. We capture limit distributions of two extreme types under random sampling sizes, known as accelerated mixed l-max and p-max stable type distributions. The study presents results for both maxima and minima in competing risks scenarios, addressing cases of independent and non-independent random sample sizes. Numerical examples validate our theoretical findings, demonstrating the applicability of our approach to various random sample size distributions, including time-shifted Poisson or binomial, geometric, and negative binomial distributions.

Digital transformation is revolutionizing inventory management practices within supply chains, offering unprecedented opportunities and challenges for businesses worldwide. This study explores the impact of digital technologies on inventory management, focusing on the adoption of IoT sensors, RFID tags, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based systems. Through a qualitative research approach encompassing interviews with industry professionals and secondary data analysis, the study examines key themes including enhanced inventory visibility, improved accuracy, advanced demand forecasting, and streamlined supply chain collaboration. Findings reveal that digital technologies significantly enhance inventory visibility by providing real-time tracking and data integration capabilities. This facilitates accurate inventory monitoring and decision-making, reducing errors and optimizing inventory levels to meet fluctuating demand effectively. AI-driven analytics and machine learning models emerge as pivotal tools for predictive demand forecasting, enabling businesses to anticipate market trends and adjust inventory strategies accordingly. Additionally, cloud-based systems and electronic data interchange (EDI) foster improved communication and coordination among supply chain partners, enhancing overall operational efficiency. Despite these benefits, challenges such as system integration complexities, high implementation costs, data quality management, cybersecurity risks, and regulatory compliance issues are prevalent. Successful adoption of digital inventory management solutions requires strategic planning, investment in technology infrastructure, and organizational readiness to navigate these challenges effectively. This study contributes to the understanding of how digital transformation reshapes inventory management practices, offering insights for researchers and practitioners alike to leverage digital technologies for enhanced supply chain performance and competitive advantage

This study examines the influence of digital marketing on brand awareness within the multinational Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, focusing on how various digital strategies contribute to overall marketing effectiveness. Utilizing a sample of 277 respondents, the research employs descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses to explore the relationships between digital marketing strategies, brand awareness outcomes, and perceived digital marketing effectiveness. The findings reveal that digital marketing strategies significantly enhance brand awareness and overall marketing effectiveness, underscoring the pivotal role of activities such as social media engagement, content marketing, and search engine optimization. Specifically, the regression analysis shows that digital marketing strategies have a positive and statistically significant impact on overall effectiveness, indicating that companies investing in these areas are better positioned to achieve higher levels of brand recognition and marketing success. However, the study also uncovers a complex relationship between brand awareness outcomes and overall effectiveness, where increased brand awareness does not directly correlate with enhanced digital marketing effectiveness. This suggests that while brand awareness is critical, its influence on marketing success is nuanced and may involve diminishing returns or additional mediating factors. The regression model explains a modest portion of the variance in marketing effectiveness, highlighting the need for a holistic evaluation approach that incorporates a broader set of performance metrics and contextual factors. The high reliability of the measures used affirms the robustness of the findings, which emphasize the importance of a strategic and integrated approach to digital marketing in the FMCG sector. Companies must continuously adapt and optimize their digital marketing strategies to align with dynamic market conditions and achieve sustainable success.

This qualitative study explores the intricate impact of cultural differences on global procurement practices within multinational supply chains. Cultural dimensions profoundly influence communication dynamics, negotiation strategies, decision-making processes, and supplier relationship management in diverse global contexts. Effective cross-cultural communication is crucial for fostering trust and clarity across different cultural norms, while negotiation strategies vary based on cultural preferences for collaboration or competition. Decision-making processes are shaped by cultural attitudes towards risk tolerance, time orientation, and decision authority, influencing procurement agility and resilience. Strategic implications of cultural diversity include opportunities for innovation and localized adaptation in procurement practices, tempered by challenges such as adaptation costs and regulatory compliance. Emotional intelligence (EI) emerges as pivotal in navigating cultural complexities, enhancing stakeholder engagement, conflict resolution, and collaborative partnerships critical for sustainable procurement practices in multicultural settings. Economic factors, including stability, currency fluctuations, and market volatility, impact procurement strategies and supply chain resilience, necessitating proactive risk management and adaptive approaches. Barriers to growth in global procurement, such as regulatory complexities and geopolitical risks, require strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and infrastructural investments for operational continuity. By understanding and addressing cultural influences, multinational corporations can enhance cross-cultural competence, strategic decision-making, and capitalize on global market opportunities. This study contributes insights and recommendations to enhance procurement effectiveness and competitiveness in an interconnected global economy, supporting ongoing efforts to optimize global procurement practices.

The study analyzes how graduate students in economics, administration and accounting perceive their managerial skills for employability. It focuses on the importance of developing transferable skills that meet current and future job demands. To measure the perception of skills, a structured and duly validated questionnaire (Employability Skills 2000+) was used, answered by 225 graduate students in Economics, Administrative and Accounting Sciences in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The data obtained from the application were analyzed using the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) method with the FACTOR software. The CFA generated an adaptation of the original scale with 21 variables. The resulting scale determined three predominant factors: Personal Management Skills, Fundamental Skills and Teamwork Skills, which presented good consistency and validity, allowing us to conclude regarding employability skills in the context studied. The findings show the existence of a correlation between fundamental skills and variables such as work experience, employment status and gender, as well as a high correlation between teamwork skills and work experience and employability conditions.

This qualitative study explores the intricacies of building sustainable supplier relationships in the e-commerce sector, focusing on best practices and strategic approaches. Through in-depth interviews with procurement managers, supply chain experts, and supplier representatives, the research identifies four critical themes: trust, technology integration, ethical practices, and performance measurement. Trust is found to be the foundation of effective supplier relationships, fostering open communication and collaboration, which are essential for addressing challenges and co-creating solutions. The integration of digital technologies such as supply chain management software, blockchain, and the Internet of Things significantly enhances transparency, decision-making, and operational efficiency, providing a competitive edge. Ethical practices, including adherence to fair labor standards and environmental sustainability, are increasingly crucial as consumer and regulatory expectations evolve, necessitating alignment between e-commerce companies and their suppliers. Performance measurement and continuous improvement are vital for maintaining quality and efficiency, with clear metrics and regular evaluations driving constructive feedback and optimization of supply chain processes. The study underscores the interdependence of these elements in fostering resilient and adaptable supplier relationships. The findings offer practical guidance for e-commerce businesses and suppliers, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to supplier management that balances trust, technology, ethics, and performance. This approach not only enhances operational effectiveness but also ensures the long-term sustainability of supplier relationships in the dynamic e-commerce landscape. The research contributes to the theoretical understanding of supplier relationship management, providing a comprehensive framework for future studies and practical applications in the e-commerce industry.

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) plays a pivotal role in enhancing delivery performance within the e-commerce sector, yet understanding its nuanced impacts remains crucial for optimizing operational efficiencies and customer satisfaction. This qualitative research explores the intricate dynamics of SRM in e-commerce, focusing on strategic alignment, technological integration, trust, collaboration, and risk management as key determinants of delivery reliability. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study reveals that strategic alignment of supplier capabilities with firm objectives is fundamental for maintaining a responsive and synchronized supply chain. Technological integration, including AI-driven analytics and blockchain applications, emerges as critical for real-time monitoring and adaptive decision-making, thereby improving delivery accuracy and efficiency. Trust and collaboration are identified as essential pillars for building resilient supplier relationships, fostering transparent communication and joint problem-solving. Effective risk management practices, such as supplier diversification and contingency planning, mitigate disruptions and ensure consistent delivery performance. Despite these benefits, challenges such as technological adoption barriers, cultural differences, communication complexities, resource constraints, and supplier reliability issues persist, necessitating strategic interventions. Recommendations include investing in advanced SRM technologies, promoting cultural understanding, enhancing communication protocols, allocating adequate resources, and fostering collaborative initiatives with suppliers. These strategies aim to overcome challenges and optimize SRM practices, ultimately enhancing delivery performance and competitiveness in the e-commerce landscape.

We estimate general public’s willingness to pay (WTP) for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement in Spain (n=1000) and the UK (n=984) using data from a cross-sectional survey via Qualtrics panels in March-April 2021. We use a double bound dichotomous choice contingent valuation approach to elicit the individuals’ WTP. We investigate the effect of uncertainty on the success of policies aiming at achieving soil protection. In addition, to understand the heterogeneity in individuals’ WTP for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement we model individuals’ WTP through individual’s awareness and attitudes toward agricultural soil quality protection and the environment, trust in institutions; risk and time preferences; pro-social behavior and socio-demographics in Spain and the UK. We found that there is significant public support for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement in Spain and the UK. We also found that the support does not vary significantly under uncertainty of success of policies aiming at achieving soil protection. However the individual’s reasons for supporting agricultural soil quality protection and improvement are found to depend on the level of uncertainty and country. Hence, promoting public support for soil protection needs to be tailored according to the level of general public’s perceived uncertainty and geographic location.

This qualitative study explores collaborative supplier relationships within the context of e-commerce, aiming to uncover the dynamics, challenges, strategies, impacts, and future trends shaping these partnerships. Through thematic analysis of interviews with e-commerce platform managers, supplier representatives, and industry experts, the study identifies three primary types of relationships: transactional, relational, and strategic. Critical factors influencing these relationships include trust, effective communication, technological integration, and regulatory compliance. Challenges such as information asymmetry, cultural differences, logistical complexities, and competitive pressures are examined, alongside strategies for enhancing collaboration, including clear communication protocols, performance evaluations, and technological advancements. The findings highlight the significant impact of collaborative supplier relationships on business performance, including cost efficiencies, supply chain resilience, innovation capacity, customer satisfaction, and market competitiveness. Looking forward, trends in digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, global supply chain networks, resilience-building strategies, and industry collaboration are discussed as shaping the future landscape of e-commerce partnerships. Embracing these trends presents opportunities for organizations to innovate, adapt, and sustain growth in the competitive digital marketplace.

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) tools play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and competitiveness within e-commerce supply chains. This qualitative research explores the effectiveness of SRM tools in optimizing procurement processes, mitigating risks, and fostering collaborative partnerships with suppliers. The study employs semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in diverse e-commerce sectors to gather insights into the implementation and outcomes of SRM tools. Findings reveal that technological advancements, including AI, blockchain, and data analytics, facilitate real-time communication, decision-making, and supply chain visibility, thereby enabling organizations to achieve cost savings and operational efficiencies. Enhanced supplier relationships through SRM tools contribute to collaborative innovation, faster product development cycles, and improved customer satisfaction. However, challenges such as technological complexity, regulatory compliance, and supplier resistance necessitate strategic management and investment in cybersecurity and compliance frameworks. The research underscores the importance of executive sponsorship, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement in driving successful SRM implementations.

This qualitative research explores Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies within the context of e-commerce customization, aiming to understand how businesses effectively manage relationships with suppliers to meet personalized consumer demands. Through semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, key themes such as trust, communication, technological integration, strategic alignment, sustainability, and collaboration emerged as critical factors influencing SRM effectiveness. Trust was found to be foundational, fostering cooperation and commitment between e-commerce businesses and suppliers through transparent interactions. Effective communication and the integration of advanced technologies like AI and blockchain enhanced operational efficiency and innovation capabilities, enabling businesses to deliver tailored customer experiences. Strategic alignment between businesses and suppliers proved essential for shared success and mutual benefit, while sustainability practices increasingly shaped consumer preferences and brand reputation. Collaboration facilitated joint innovation and accelerated product customization, underscoring the importance of partnerships in achieving strategic goals. However, challenges including supply chain complexity, managing consumer expectations, and regulatory compliance highlighted the need for continuous improvement and adaptive strategies. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights for e-commerce businesses seeking to optimize SRM strategies, enhance supply chain efficiency, and navigate the complexities of customization in a competitive digital marketplace. By leveraging trust, communication, technology, strategic alignment, sustainability, and collaboration, businesses can effectively meet evolving consumer demands and achieve sustainable growth.

This qualitative research explores the integration of sustainability into procurement practices through the perspectives of supply chain practitioners. The study examines key challenges, strategies, and perceived benefits associated with sustainable procurement across diverse industries. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled participants renowned for their expertise in procurement and sustainability. Thematic analysis revealed that while regulatory compliance, supplier engagement, and cost considerations pose significant challenges, strategies such as collaborative partnerships, embedding sustainability criteria into procurement contracts, and leveraging technology are pivotal in promoting sustainable procurement. Participants highlighted benefits including enhanced brand reputation, improved operational efficiencies, and strengthened stakeholder trust. Leadership commitment and organizational culture emerged as critical drivers of successful sustainable procurement initiatives, influencing employee engagement and organizational resilience. Looking forward, emerging trends such as circular economy principles and the integration of sustainability into corporate strategies are identified as transformative for future procurement practices. The study underscores the strategic importance of sustainability in enhancing organizational resilience, mitigating risks, and creating long-term economic, environmental, and social value. By addressing challenges, leveraging effective strategies, and embracing emerging trends, organizations can position themselves as leaders in sustainable procurement, contributing positively to global sustainability goals and gaining competitive advantage.

Implementing ethical procurement standards is increasingly recognized as pivotal for organizations aiming to align their practices with principles of social responsibility and sustainability. This qualitative research explores the experiences, challenges, strategies, and impacts associated with ethical procurement across diverse sectors. Motivations for adopting ethical procurement include enhancing corporate reputation, meeting stakeholder expectations, and complying with regulatory frameworks. However, organizations face significant challenges such as balancing ethical considerations with cost-efficiency pressures, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and ensuring transparency across global supply chains. Strategies for overcoming these challenges emphasize effective supplier relationship management, leveraging technological innovations for transparency, and investing in supplier capacity-building. The study reveals that ethical procurement practices contribute to organizational resilience by improving risk management, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and fostering innovation in procurement processes. Moreover, ethical procurement supports sustainable development goals by promoting environmental sustainability, supporting social equity through fair labor practices, and contributing to economic development. Future research directions include exploring the impact of emerging technologies on ethical procurement, promoting global collaboration for unified standards, and evaluating the long-term sustainability of ethical procurement initiatives.

This qualitative study explores the multifaceted strategies organizations employ to build resilient supply chains through effective procurement risk management. Conducted over a six-month period in 2024, the research involved semi-structured interviews with 25 industry professionals from sectors including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and technology, alongside document analysis and case studies. The study identifies four key themes: risk identification and assessment, supplier relationship management, digitalization in risk management, and strategic resilience practices. The findings reveal that organizations face diverse risks, including supplier, supply market, and external environmental risks, necessitating comprehensive risk assessment methodologies. Supplier relationship management emerges as a critical factor in mitigating risks, with practices such as regular audits, collaborative risk management, long-term partnerships, and supplier diversification being crucial. The adoption of digital technologies like predictive analytics, blockchain, advanced analytics, and artificial intelligence enhances risk management capabilities, providing data-driven insights and fostering transparency. Strategic resilience practices, including inventory buffering, flexible sourcing, redundancy, and scenario planning, are essential for maintaining supply chain continuity amidst disruptions. The study underscores the importance of an integrated and proactive approach to procurement risk management that leverages robust assessment, strong supplier relationships, digital tools, and strategic planning. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how organizations can effectively manage procurement risks and build resilient supply chains in a dynamic global environment. The insights offer valuable guidance for procurement professionals and organizational leaders in developing resilient and adaptable supply chain strategies to navigate the complexities of today's market.

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment has become a common trend in capital markets, and many institutional investors have publicly declared their long-term ESG investment target (ESGIT). This study focuses on investors who conduct strategic asset allocation (SAA) using composite indices but establish their ESGIT outside the SAA process. A mismatch could arise between investors’ planned and actual portfolios because they must pursue their ESGIT by asset selection, which inevitably makes the constituents of their portfolios different from those of composite indices. To scrutinize the potential existence of a misalignment between their SAA and ESGIT, this study analyzes actual stock and bond indices over the past decade using traditional mean-variance optimization. The results reveal significant differences between the expected and realized performances, and the misalignment is more significant when the analysis period is divided into two sub-periods: stable and volatile. Specifically, the results indicate that the efficient frontier constructed using ESG indices significantly differs from that constructed using composite indices, and that the difference between these two efficient frontiers becomes more significant during volatile periods. Furthermore, the results show that investors cannot meet their targets if their ESGIT is established outside the SAA process.

This qualitative study explores the complexities of managing suppliers for quality among Italian restaurant owners, investigating their perspectives, challenges, and strategic approaches in supplier management. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 restaurant owners across diverse regions of Italy, key themes emerged regarding supplier selection criteria, challenges in supplier management, strategies for ensuring quality, and the impact of external factors on supply chain dynamics. Findings reveal that authenticity, reliability, and sustainability are paramount in supplier selection, aligning with consumer expectations for genuine Italian ingredients and culinary excellence. Economic pressures, operational disruptions, and external influences, exacerbated by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitate adaptive strategies such as cost-effective sourcing, rigorous quality control measures, and technological integration to maintain supply chain continuity and uphold quality standards. Strategic initiatives, including rigorous quality assurance protocols, digital procurement platforms, and collaborative partnerships with suppliers, enhance transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness in supply chain operations. Entrepreneurial initiatives and emotional intelligence play crucial roles in fostering innovative sourcing strategies and building trust-based relationships with suppliers, enhancing supply chain resilience and responsiveness to market demands. External factors, such as market dynamics and sustainability trends, underscore the need for continuous adaptation and strategic foresight in supplier management practices. The study contributes to understanding the intricate dynamics of supplier management in Italian cuisine, offering insights for enhancing operational efficiency, maintaining quality standards, and fostering sustainable supplier relationships in the food service industry.

This qualitative research investigates the impact of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) on e-commerce innovation adoption. Through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, the study explores how SRM practices influence organizational capabilities to innovate in the context of digital commerce. Key themes emerged, emphasizing the critical role of trust, communication, collaboration, strategic alignment, technology integration, organizational culture, leadership, and external factors in shaping e-commerce innovation. Trust was found to be foundational, fostering transparent communication and collaborative relationships that facilitate innovation. Effective communication channels and collaborative initiatives enabled organizations and suppliers to leverage combined expertise, driving the development of innovative e-commerce solutions. Strategic alignment ensured that both parties worked towards shared goals, supported by technology integration that enhanced operational efficiency and decision-making. Organizational culture and leadership were identified as crucial in creating environments conducive to continuous innovation. External factors such as market dynamics, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements influenced innovation strategies, highlighting the need for adaptive and responsive SRM practices. The findings underscore the interconnectedness of these factors within the SRM framework, offering insights into how organizations can enhance their innovation capabilities and competitiveness in the digital economy. By strategically managing SRM practices and integrating sustainable initiatives, organizations can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve sustained success in e-commerce innovation.

The fixed and random effects models are popular methods for identifying the causal effects of treatment. First, I introduce the two-way fixed effects model and show a class of the estimators for the random effects models. Misidentification may occur in these models due to the treatment effect heterogeneity. Then, I propose the differential error component models to address such problems while the models exclude the fixed effects of units and time periods and consider the random effects of units and time periods. Meanwhile, I present a simulation of a staggered design and revisit the application in (De Chaisemartin and D'Haultfoeuille, 2020). The results demonstrate that one additional newspaper increases the 0.31% average effect of the presidential turnout and the 1.05% average effect when the newspapers’ changes are non-negative, where the proposed estimators are robust and efficient.

This qualitative study explores the dynamics of customer satisfaction and supplier collaboration within Italian restaurant operations. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the research investigates key factors influencing these relationships. Trust and communication emerged as foundational elements, crucial for ensuring reliable ingredient supply and maintaining culinary authenticity. Quality and authenticity of ingredients were identified as primary drivers of customer satisfaction, underscoring the strategic role of suppliers in delivering superior dining experiences. Customer feedback played a pivotal role in shaping operational practices, highlighting the iterative process of adapting to customer preferences to enhance service delivery and loyalty. Emotional intelligence among managers facilitated effective supplier relationships, fostering collaborative partnerships and navigating operational challenges with empathy and skill. Economic considerations were vital in balancing cost efficiencies with quality standards, guiding strategic decisions in supplier management. Technological integration enhanced supply chain management, optimizing logistics and responsiveness to market demands. The adoption of sustainable sourcing practices reinforced restaurants’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with consumer preferences for ethical dining options. The findings suggest actionable insights for restaurant managers to optimize supplier collaborations, enhance operational efficiency, and sustain competitive advantage in the hospitality industry.

This qualitative research explores negotiation dynamics within procurement, focusing on strategies, challenges, and outcomes in contemporary business environments. Negotiation in procurement plays a crucial role in shaping organizational strategies, supplier relationships, and operational efficiencies. In a globalized economy characterized by rapid technological advancements and market uncertainties, effective negotiation practices are essential for organizations seeking competitive advantage and sustainable growth. Through semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals, supply chain executives, and industry experts, this study examines the nuanced strategies employed in negotiation processes. Thematic analysis of the data reveals key themes including negotiation strategies (e.g., preparation, flexibility), challenges (e.g., price volatility, regulatory constraints), and outcomes (e.g., cost savings, innovation incentives). Relationship management emerges as pivotal, highlighting the importance of trust, transparency, and mutual respect in fostering collaborative supplier partnerships. The study also explores contextual factors (e.g., organizational culture, industry dynamics) and emotional dimensions (e.g., emotional intelligence, interpersonal dynamics) that influence negotiation effectiveness.

Strategic procurement practices within global supply chains are crucial for organizations aiming to navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable competitive advantage. This qualitative research explores how procurement has evolved from a cost-centric function to a strategic enabler of broader organizational objectives, including risk management, sustainability, and innovation. Through semi-structured interviews with procurement managers and supply chain executives across diverse industries, the study investigates key themes such as supplier relationship management, technological integration, and the impact of sustainability considerations on procurement decision-making. Findings indicate that effective procurement strategies, such as strategic sourcing and collaborative supplier partnerships, are pivotal in enhancing supply chain resilience and operational efficiency. Technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence and big data analytics, are transforming procurement operations by optimizing processes and enhancing decision-making capabilities. However, the study identifies significant challenges, including regulatory complexities, geopolitical uncertainties, and internal resistance to change, which require adaptive approaches to procurement management. Sustainability emerges as a critical driver, with organizations adopting ethical sourcing practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting supplier diversity to meet environmental and social responsibility goals. Leadership qualities such as visionary thinking and emotional intelligence are essential for navigating these challenges and driving innovation within procurement practices. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of strategic procurement's role in organizational strategy and offers practical insights for enhancing procurement effectiveness and resilience in a competitive global market landscape.

This qualitative research explores the role of digital transformation in procurement through insights gathered from interviews with industry leaders. Digital technologies such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Blockchain are examined for their impact on operational efficiency, strategic procurement management, supplier relationships, and sustainability practices. Findings reveal that these technologies streamline processes, enhance decision-making capabilities, and improve transparency, thereby enabling organizations to achieve greater agility and competitive advantage. Strategic factors including leadership commitment, strategic investments, and digital skills development emerge as crucial for navigating challenges such as organizational resistance, data security, and integration complexities. The study underscores the transformative potential of digital transformation in procurement, emphasizing its role in driving innovation, fostering sustainability, and aligning procurement practices with broader organizational goals. Looking forward, the research suggests that organizations must continue to innovate and adapt to technological advancements to maintain resilience and leadership in a digital economy. By integrating digital strategies effectively, organizations can enhance operational efficiencies, strengthen supplier relationships, and promote ethical business practices, ultimately positioning themselves for sustained success.

This qualitative study explores the challenges and successes in supplier development from the perspectives of procurement managers across diverse industries. Through in-depth interviews, key themes emerged, highlighting the critical role of communication, trust, performance measurement, capacity building, risk management, innovation, regulatory compliance, and technology integration in supplier relationship management. Procurement managers emphasized the importance of clear, continuous communication and trust-building activities to align objectives and foster collaborative partnerships. Performance measurement was crucial for evaluating and improving supplier performance, supported by capacity-building initiatives to enhance supplier capabilities. Risk management strategies focused on identifying and mitigating risks, while compliance efforts aimed to ensure adherence to industry standards. Innovation and technological integration were pivotal for driving efficiency and competitiveness, enabling faster time-to-market and improved product quality. Cultural sensitivity and relationship strengthening emerged as essential for navigating diverse cultural contexts and enhancing partnership effectiveness. Overall, the findings underscored positive outcomes including enhanced quality, cost efficiencies, and increased resilience within supply chains. This research contributes valuable insights into effective supplier management practices, emphasizing the strategic importance of supplier development initiatives for sustainable growth and competitive advantage in today's dynamic business environment.

The apparel manufacturing industry's growth over recent decades has heightened concerns about its environmental impact, including resource use, energy and water consumption, waste generation, chemical disposal, and greenhouse gas emissions. Companies have responded by initiating environmental actions and enhancing legitimacy through environmental disclosures. This study examines the nature of these disclosures among Sri Lankan apparel manufacturing companies to understand corporate priorities and identify areas for reporting improvement. Publicly available data from web pages and standalone reports were analyzed using content analysis. Findings indicate that only 23% of registered companies disclose environmental performance, while 60% of key industry players provide higher levels of transparency. Disclosures cover greenhouse gas emissions, carbon footprint, renewable energy, energy and water use, waste management, biodiversity, and environmental certifications. Key players offer detailed information on specific areas like carbon footprint, energy use, and waste management. This study highlights the need for more comprehensive and transparent environmental reporting to promote sustainable practices within the Sri Lankan apparel industry.

This qualitative study explores how businesses are adapting their Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by evolving e-commerce trends. Through in-depth interviews with key industry stakeholders, the research investigates the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) into SRM practices. Findings reveal that these technologies enhance efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness within supply chains, enabling businesses to navigate complexities such as supply chain dynamics, fluctuating consumer demand, and regulatory compliance. The study identifies effective strategies employed by businesses, including enhancing communication channels with suppliers, diversifying supplier bases, and investing in technological advancements. These strategies enable businesses to mitigate risks, improve collaboration, and drive innovation, thereby maintaining competitive advantage in the digital marketplace. Collaborative practices such as joint product development, shared risk management, and co-investment in technology emerge as critical drivers of successful SRM. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of SRM in the context of e-commerce, offering insights into how businesses can optimize their supply chain operations amidst technological disruptions and market fluctuations. The findings underscore the importance of proactive adaptation and strategic alignment with suppliers to foster resilient and agile supply chains. As e-commerce continues to evolve, businesses must leverage these insights to refine their SRM strategies and sustain growth in an increasingly competitive environment.

This study explores the intricacies of supplier relationships and inventory optimization within high-technology industries, offering a comprehensive analysis of the strategic imperatives and operational challenges faced by firms in these sectors. By adopting a qualitative research methodology involving semi-structured interviews with supply chain professionals and documentary analysis, the study provides in-depth insights into the evolving dynamics of supply chain management. Findings reveal a marked shift towards collaborative and strategic supplier relationships, characterized by trust, transparency, and joint innovation initiatives. These partnerships are essential for enhancing operational efficiency, driving product development, and navigating market uncertainties. Additionally, the research underscores the critical role of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, in optimizing inventory levels and improving supply chain visibility. The integration of these technologies facilitates precise demand forecasting and proactive inventory management, thereby reducing costs and enhancing service levels. However, the study also highlights significant challenges, including geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and cultural barriers, which necessitate robust risk management strategies and adaptive supply chain practices. Strategic implications for organizational leaders and policymakers include the need to invest in supplier development, embrace digital transformation, and enhance risk management frameworks to build resilient and agile supply chains. This study contributes valuable insights into the complex interplay between supplier relationships, inventory optimization, and technological integration in high-technology industries, offering actionable recommendations for practitioners and researchers seeking to drive innovation and maintain competitiveness in a dynamic global marketplace.

Agile procurement has emerged as a transformative strategy for organizations striving to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving marketplace. This qualitative research investigates the implementation, benefits, challenges, and outcomes of agile procurement practices in supply chain management. Through semi-structured interviews and case studies across diverse industries, this study explores how agile procurement enhances organizational adaptability and responsiveness. Key findings reveal that agile procurement enables organizations to swiftly adjust strategies in response to market fluctuations and customer demands, fostering increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. The integration of advanced technologies, including AI and blockchain, facilitates real-time data analysis, optimizing procurement processes and enhancing supply chain efficiency. Organizational culture emerges as a critical factor in successful agile procurement, with leadership support and a collaborative environment driving cultural change towards agility and innovation. Despite its benefits, challenges such as resistance to change and the need for significant technology investments are identified, requiring careful change management and strategic alignment. Case studies illustrate the versatility of agile procurement across sectors, showcasing its role in enhancing operational efficiencies, innovation capabilities, and overall supply chain performance. In conclusion, agile procurement offers organizations a strategic framework to navigate complexities and uncertainties effectively, capitalizing on market opportunities while mitigating risks. Embracing agile principles fosters a resilient organizational culture capable of adapting to dynamic market conditions. Future research should focus on further refining agile procurement strategies to address emerging challenges and sustain competitive advantage in the global marketplace.

This study investigates how organizations adapt their procurement practices in response to supply chain disruptions, aiming to enhance resilience and ensure operational continuity. Through qualitative research involving interviews with procurement professionals and industry experts, the study identifies key adaptive strategies employed by organizations, including supplier diversification, enhanced inventory management, digital transformation, supplier collaboration, and contingency planning. These strategies are explored in depth, highlighting their implementation challenges and the outcomes achieved. Despite facing obstacles such as financial constraints, technological barriers, and supplier resistance, organizations have demonstrated a proactive approach in leveraging these strategies to mitigate risks and improve supply chain resilience. The findings reveal that adaptive procurement strategies have led to significant outcomes, including strengthened supplier relationships, increased operational efficiency, better risk management, and competitive advantage. These outcomes underscore the strategic importance of agility, technological integration, collaborative partnerships, and effective leadership in responding to disruptions and maintaining competitiveness. The study also discusses implications for practice and policy, emphasizing the need for continued investment in technology, collaboration, and resilience-building initiatives across supply chains. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of how organizations can adapt and innovate in the face of dynamic supply chain challenges, providing insights that can guide future research and inform strategic decision-making in procurement and supply chain management.

This qualitative study explores the transformative role of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) in the context of e-commerce, focusing on the integration of digital technologies and evolving supplier interactions. As digital advancements such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, data analytics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) reshape traditional SRM practices, e-commerce companies are experiencing significant improvements in efficiency, transparency, and collaboration. This research employs semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and case studies to examine the impact of these technologies on SRM, identify key collaborative practices, and assess risk management strategies. Findings indicate that digital integration enhances decision-making, streamlines operations, and fosters deeper, trust-based supplier relationships. AI facilitates predictive analytics and automates processes, while blockchain provides transparency and reduces fraud. Data analytics supports informed sourcing decisions and risk mitigation, and cloud platforms improve real-time collaboration. IoT enhances supply chain visibility, allowing for better inventory management. Despite these benefits, challenges such as high implementation costs, integration difficulties, data privacy concerns, and security risks remain significant barriers. Collaboration practices, including joint development, shared resources, and coordinated marketing, contribute to innovation and mutual growth, emphasizing the need for effective communication and trust. Risk management strategies, such as scenario planning and supplier diversification, are crucial for maintaining supply chain resilience. Strategic alignment between e-commerce companies and suppliers, including goal congruence and capability matching, is essential for seamless coordination and competitive advantage. The study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to SRM, integrating technology, collaboration, risk management, and strategic alignment to navigate the complexities of supplier relationships in the digital age. These insights provide a framework for e-commerce companies to optimize their SRM practices and achieve sustainable growth in a dynamic marketplace.

This article examines illicit financial flows (IFFs) perpetuated in financial statements to develop a framework to curb IFFs. IFFs create opacity, impeding economic progress through investment deterrents and financial uncertainty. Through a comprehensive literature review and the synthesis of sets of qualitative propositions, the researchers previously developed a conceptual framework to address IFFs, and the purpose of the present article is to strengthen and validate the framework among stakeholders in the financial and audit sectors. Following a mixed inductive and deductive research approach and a qualitative methodological choice, the researchers conducted interviews among practitioners to enhance the framework, followed by a focus group to validate the framework. IFF challenges that emerged are tax evasion, for example, investments in untraceable offshore accounts, harming the economy, bitcoins not being subject to regulation everywhere in the world and being used by cryptocurrency criminals to transfer IFFs to nations with lax regulations. Internationally, IFF risks are also determined by geographical position, trade links and porous borders among countries emerged as further challenges, calling for entities to execute existing policies, improve tax enforcement methods, apply cross-border coordination, and practice financial reporting transparency aimed at combatting IFF practices. On the strength of these, the industry surveys significantly enhanced the conceptual framework.

Despite the known benefits of precision agriculture, the adoption is challenging due to the cost of investment and the farm sizes. Therefore, profitability is an important aspect to consider. This study aimed to evaluate the net returns, profitability, and investment efficiencies of PA by different economic farm sizes. The study was based on data retrieved from FADN and Eurostat. The study examined four countries (Poland, Germany, France, and Romania) under field crop farming using an investment cost of €35 941 - €71 883, and a 20% and 15% reduction in the cost of crop protection and fertilizer usage respectively without compromising productivity. There is a positive relationship between the adoption of PA and farm returns for larger-scale farms. The result of the profitability and analysis of investment efficiency using NPV showed a positive value for economic farm sizes of €100 000 and above. Hence, it is not economically advisable that all farmers use PA technologies with the hope that they will be profitable but with public support (subsidies) more farms will be able to use PA and be profitable. Also, an opportunity to meet the goal of the European Union Green Deal of minimizing emissions that cause climate change.

Industrial robots are slowly but surely entering manufacturing companies. This paper explores the effects that robots have on productivity, exports, quality, sustainability and labor in European manufacturing companies. There is lack of research on industrial robot usage and its effects in developed countries. Most research is done on Chinese companies and often the data is outdated. The data in this paper is from the European Manufacturing Survey project conducted in 2022 and includes 476 manufacturing companies. Results of the effects of Industrial robots on Quality, Labor Productivity, Exports and Environmental saving technologies are done by use of T-test between industrial robots’ adopters and non-adopters. However, the effect of higher investment into environmental technology by industrial robots’ adopters was researched by 2-step OLS regression analysis with control variables representing the contextual characteristics of companies. The results show positive effects on all variables. Results show that larger usage of robots are in low to medium-technology-intensity industries, that robots contribute to labor productivity, exports and that companies employing robots usually also employ environmentally saving technologies.

The philosophy of Industry 5.0 recognizes the transformative power of the industrial sector to add value to society and employees. Industry 5.0, distinct from its predecessors, relies on a tripod of sustainability, human-centric, and resilience. These three thematic principles aim to improve work safety, research and innovation, and strengthen industrial resilience and competitiveness. The potential for positive change is immense. However, a perfect storm is brewing for the future of work, brought about by the concerning trends of displacement and low skill levels of work-ers' competencies in handling the new technologies of Industry 5.0 in emerging economies. This paper will discuss Industry 5.0 and provide historical insights on the importance of acquiring the desired twenty-first-century competencies needed in the workforce for Industry 5.0. Two research questions guided the study in identifying these twenty-first-century competencies, how these com-petencies can be cultivated and taught in the education curriculum and policies of emerging economies, and the crucial im-portance of adapting Industry 5.0 to these emerging economies. The study concluded that emerging economies must play an active role in shaping the future, by creating policies that will advance social stability, resource preservation, and climate objec-tives, which will enable more productive production processes with lower waste and energy usage.

This study investigates the adoption of emerging technologies in procurement within supply chain management, focusing on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain. Through a qualitative approach, involving semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals and technology experts, the study explores how these technologies enhance operational efficiency, optimize inventory management, and improve supply chain transparency and trust. AI-driven predictive analytics were found to significantly enhance demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and supplier performance evaluation, fostering data-driven decision-making and proactive risk management. Blockchain technology ensures secure and transparent transactions, facilitating compliance with ethical sourcing standards and reducing risks associated with counterfeit goods. Despite these benefits, organizations face substantial challenges in adopting these technologies, including data security concerns, integration complexities with existing IT infrastructure, and skills shortages in AI and blockchain expertise. Leadership commitment and organizational readiness are identified as crucial enablers for overcoming these barriers and driving successful technology adoption. The study also highlights the strategic importance of supplier relationship management, emphasizing how emerging technologies enhance real-time collaboration, performance insights, and contractual transparency. By addressing these challenges and leveraging technological innovations strategically, organizations can achieve sustainable growth, resilience, and competitive advantage in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy. The findings contribute to advancing knowledge on procurement innovation and offer valuable insights for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of technology-driven procurement practices. Future research directions may explore the long-term impact of technology adoption on supply chain dynamics, sustainability initiatives, and organizational performance.

Internships can foster educational alliances between industry (business environment) and academic institutions, which can facilitate both flexibility and accelerated innovation. The purpose of this research is to search for the factors that determine HRD through the implementation of the Internship program among the students of Democritus University of Thrace and reveal the correlation between the factors. Also, this paper investigated the impact of the COVID-19 Eras on Human Resource Development (HRD) Factors and finally, investigated the correlation between the two variables "Recruitment in the specialization" and "Covid Eras". The sample of the research consisted of 1398 students of DUTh who implemented Internships during the academic years 2015-2016 to 2021-2022. A questionnaire with 60 variables was created for data collection. A random sampling method was applied to collect the sample. From the results of the survey, ten factors were extracted for human resource training that explained 75.512% of the total variance and for each one, Cronbach's Alpha reliability was tested, which was high. In detail, the factors revealed were Learning Outcomes, Efficacy, Emotional Commitment, Satisfaction, Participation, Empowerment, Role Ambiguity, Role Conflict, Supervisor and Collaboration. From the results of the study, it was evident that HR development - training is a multi-dimensional concept and is a necessary condition for the competitiveness of the firms. Training can help to improve the flexibility of the firm, but also to motivate the staff by implementing multidisciplinary training programs. In general, internship programs are valuable ways for students to acquire broad competences, where the practical knowledge gained supports and complements the theoretical studies acquired in educational institutions.

The West Pomeranian Anti-Crisis Package was an effective tool of the Voivodeship Executive Board of West Pomeranian self-government, which was used to combat and counteract and counteract the social and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Anti-Crisis Package was prepared with a view to undertaking systemic, but also point-based measures in order to save and protect regional health care, entrepreneurs, the labour market, but also to use the existing social capital of non-governmental organizations involved in measures reducing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The West Pomeranian Anti-Crisis Package, as evidenced not only by the financial outlays incurred, but also by the outcome of implementing measures achieved in 2020 and their continuation in 2021.

In economics, especially econometrics, fixed-effects are widely recognized as powerful tools for heterogeneity analysis of longitudinal data sets. However, the existing research pays more attention to such as the variable selection, parameter estimation and dimension reduction on linear relationships with too many assumptions while nonlinear relationships are ubiquitous. In this paper, an extension fixed-effects model is proposed on the curve_fit nonlinear least squares. First, with the help of expert knowledge, the series regressions between independent variables including time and dependent variable is estimated on each series data, and the parameters are estimated by curve_fit. Similarly, the coeffection between independent variables including time and dependent variable is also initially estimated on the whole panel data. Second, the distance between regressions is defined, and then the coeffect function between the series regressions is obtained on the initial co-effect with curve_fit. Third, the time-effects and individual fixed-effects for each series data in the panel data are estimated on the differences of series regressions and co-effect function. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is varified on the synthetic data.

This study examines the relationship between entrepreneurship and sustainable devel-opment in Saudi Arabia from 2006 to 2022, focusing on the economic, social, and en-vironmental dimensions. Using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the research investigates both short-run and long-run dynamics to understand how entre-preneurial activities influence sustainable development within the framework of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative. The findings indicate that entrepreneurship significantly contributes to economic growth through job creation and innovation, thereby aiding in the diversification of the economy away from oil dependency. Socially, entrepreneurial ini-tiatives have a positive impact on gender equality and social inclusion by empowering women and integrating youth into the labour market. Environmentally, entrepreneurship helps reduce carbon emissions and promotes sustainable business practices. Despite these positive outcomes, challenges such as regulatory barriers, limited access to finance, and the need for a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem remain. Recommendations include enhancing entrepreneurial education, providing financial incentives, and streamlining regulatory processes to better support start-ups and SMEs. The study highlights the ne-cessity of addressing these challenges to fully realize the potential of entrepreneurship for sustainable development in Saudi Arabia. By providing empirical evidence on the sig-nificant role of entrepreneurship in driving sustainable development, this research offers actionable insights for policymakers aiming to foster a more resilient and diversified economy in line with Vision 2030. .

The energy transition is a complicated process that involves changing production and consumption habits, boosting the use of renewable energy sources, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This article examines the management of risks associated with this shift, focusing on investment, commercial, technological, regulatory, and environmental challenges. The paper proposes an effective way for dealing with new difficulties by assessing risks and the management techniques that accompany them. Furthermore, as a critical component of the energy revolution, the concept of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) is given, with a focus on the ambitions of INGV – Irpina Headquarters and the EU regulatory framework. Finally, the actions and methods employed to achieve the NZEB objectives are discussed, including the utilization of cutting-edge technologies and renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the concept of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) is introduced as an important component of the energy transition, with an emphasis on the European regulatory framework and the ambitions of the INGV – Irpina Headquarters. Finally, the interventions and techniques employed to achieve the NZEB targets are highlighted, such as the employment of advanced technologies and renewable energy resources. This study contributes significantly to understanding the processes and issues associated with the energy transition and the implementation of NZEB, hence boosting sustainability in the construction sector.

This study looked into how financial knowledge and entrepreneurial proficiency affected the performance of small, sustainable businesses. In parallel, we looked at how business resilience mediated the relationship between entrepreneurial proficiency and financial knowledge and long-term company success. Using an offline questionnaire, we employed a quantitative approach to gather data from 275 Indian small company owners. PLS-SEM was used to analyse the data that had been gathered. The findings show that resilience and entrepreneurial ability are very positively impacted by financial knowledge. The business resilience and sustainable performance of Indian SMEs are significantly enhanced by entrepreneurial competencies. Moreover, it was shown that business resilience moderated the influence of financial knowledge and proficiency on sustainable performance among Indian SMEs, while concurrently having a significant impact on sustainable performance. In keeping with India Vision of Viksit Bharat@2047: Crystal Gazing Through MSME Sector, which places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and the growth of a financially independent entrepreneurial community, this study helps to open up business options for regional business owners who oversee small businesses. According to the most recent figures (2021–2022) from the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, MSMEs make up a startling 29.15% of India’s GDP. This indicates their critical significance in the development of the country as it equates to a sizeable portion of the economic pie. In addition to adding to the corpus of knowledge, this research can help policymakers develop relevant plans to motivate SMEs that have been most negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to operate sustainably. There are also several other ramifications for financial institutions and business owners.

This systematic literature review meticulously explores the complexities of technological innovation and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on the strategies and management practices involved in new product development from an interdisciplinary standpoint. By conducting an extensive analysis of 323 key articles from 11 top-tier journals published between 2020 and 2023, the review delineates the current research trajectories within these fields, underscoring significant scholarly interest and development. The study particularly emphasizes the emergence of artificial intelligence-generated content technology since 2022 and critically assesses its influence on innovation processes and product development practices among both nascent entrepreneurs and well-established corporations. This emergent technology's role in shaping the competitive landscape and its potential to drive significant shifts in market dynamics are thoroughly examined.

The present study discusses how adopting cryptos affects financial inclusion in developing economies. Primary constructs like Financial Inclusion (FI), Perceived Economic Empowerment (PEE), Trust in Financial Institutions (TFI), User Satisfaction (US), and Cryptocurrency Adoption (CA) were tested through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicated that CA significantly and positively influenced FI, US, TFI, and PEE. These relationships extend to the interaction effects: US, TFI, and PEE all positively related to FI. It is a reflection of cryptocurrencies as an opportunity to redress most of the afflictions characteristic of traditional finance systems and to promote financial inclusion and economic empowerment in developing countries. Future research should also investigate whether digital literacy and regulatory environments support cryptocurrency access.

This study examines the relationship between Bitcoin market dynamics and user activity on the r/cryptocurrency subreddit. The purpose of this research is to understand how social media activity correlates with Bitcoin price and trading volume, and to explore the sentiment and topical focus of Reddit discussions. We collected data on Bitcoin’s closing price and trading volume from January 2021 to December 2022, alongside the most popular posts and comments from the subreddit during the same period. Our analysis revealed significant correlations between Bitcoin market metrics and Reddit activity, with user discussions often reacting to market changes. Additionally, user activity on Reddit may indirectly influence the market through broader social and economic factors. Sentiment analysis showed that positive comments were more prevalent during price surges, while negative comments increased during downturns. Topic modeling identified four main discussion themes, which varied over time, particularly during market dips. These findings suggest that social media activity on Reddit can provide valuable insights into market trends and investor sentiment. Overall, our study highlights the influential role of online communities in shaping cryptocurrency market dynamics, offering potential tools for market prediction and regulation.

This study explores the evolution of price-to-book (P/B) ratios among European banks from 2005 to 2020, period where the majority of banks in different countries had a P/B ratio below 1. By dissecting banks' accounting equity into investor contributions and earnings-derived components, the research aims to evaluate how each component of equity affects these ratios and investigates whether their dynamics shifted during the period. We address a gap in prior research that has not extensively examined how individual equity components affect the overall P/B ratio. This aspect is crucial, especially in scenarios where the increase of specific components compensates for declines in others, thereby stabilizing total equity values. Our methodology involves regression analyses using a panel data model with random effects. The findings reveal that earnings-related equity components significantly influence P/B ratios. In contrast, investor contributions; which strengthen the solvency of the entity, appear to have a minimal impact. Additionally, our analysis highlights a significant quadratic relationship between the P/B ratios and both the profit or loss reported on Income Statements and distributed dividends.

With the burgeoning growth of online retail, the issue of counterfeit products has become a significant threat to both consumer trust and brand integrity, posing challenges to sustainable market practices. Online retail platforms are promoted to redesign their channel structures and enhance brand traceability to tackle counterfeits using blockchain technology. To investigate the interactions between blockchain technology and the channel structures of online retail platforms, we design a game theory model incorporating a manufacturer with(out) blockchain participation selling products via an online retail platform that operates an agency channel and/or a reselling channel. We show that the critical trade-off of blockchain participation comprises the brand assurance effect of the blockchain, the channel competition intensification effect, and the blockchain adoption cost. The platform is capable of strategically designing the channel structure to encourage (while discouraging) blockchain participation by the manufacturer. Our analysis highlights the complementarity between blockchain participation and the channel structure. Furthermore, the effect of the consumer’s belief in the reselling channel, the commission fee in the agency channel, and the substitutability between channels are investigated in depth. The research provides valuable insights for online retail platforms and policymakers seeking to foster a sustainable and trustworthy e-commerce ecosystem.

Colombia has initiated the process of participating in the environmental projects of the United Nations global agenda for the mitigation of climate change and the protection of biodiversity. Consequently, organizations within the solidarity sector have devised projects with the objective of aligning themselves with regional programs and of promoting leadership in the rural development through solidarity-based environmental initiatives. These include the organizations Canapro Ambiental, Cooperación Verde and Cootregua, which have participated in and accompanied local environmental projects. This study has identified the common elements related to the principles of organizational design proposed by Elinor Ostrom as a result of the adoption of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for the purpose of a sustainable growth. The above findings serve to corroborate the relevance of the principles of organizational design as a qualitative assessment methodology for environmental solidarity initiatives. In particular, the methodology demonstrates the value of supporting the objectives of environmental sustainability and governance in the long term, by means of the strengthening of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for the purposes of the solidarity ecosystem.

This research aims to explore the adoption and impact of green supply chain practices (GSCP) on sustainable development in Bangladesh. The study seeks to understand the current state of GSCP adoption across various industries, identify key drivers and barriers, assess the perceived benefits and challenges, and evaluate the overall impact on environmental sustainability, economic performance, and social well-being. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing interviews with key stakeholders, document analysis, and literature review to gather data and insights. Interviews were conducted with representatives from government agencies, businesses, civil society organizations, and academia to obtain diverse perspectives on GSCP adoption and its implications for sustainable development in Bangladesh. The findings reveal a mixed scenario of GSCP adoption across different industries in Bangladesh, with sectors such as textiles leading the way. Key drivers of GSCP adoption include regulatory pressures, market forces, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and financial incentives. However, organizations face significant barriers such as high upfront costs, lack of awareness and expertise, regulatory uncertainty, and supply chain complexity. Despite these challenges, GSCP offer various benefits, including environmental sustainability, economic performance, and social well-being. Successful initiatives demonstrate tangible impacts, highlighting the potential of GSCP to contribute to sustainable development. The research is limited by its qualitative nature and focus on selected industries and stakeholders. Future studies could employ quantitative methods and broader sampling to provide a more comprehensive understanding of GSCP adoption and its implications in Bangladesh. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to promote GSCP adoption and enhance sustainable development in Bangladesh. Strategies for overcoming barriers and maximizing benefits are outlined, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and capacity-building initiatives. GSCP adoption can have positive social implications by promoting ethical labor practices, improving working conditions, and fostering community engagement. By prioritizing sustainability, businesses can contribute to social well-being and inclusive growth. This research contributes to the literature on GSCP adoption and sustainable development in Bangladesh by providing empirical insights and practical recommendations. The study adds to the understanding of the drivers, barriers, benefits, and challenges associated with GSCP adoption, highlighting the importance of integrating environmental, economic, and social considerations in supply chain management.

This research aims to explore and analyze the critical success factors (CSFs) that increase the likelihood of successful implementation of tourism PPP projects in China. As an important step toward developing such a protocol, this study identifies and examines 22 critical success factors for tourism PPPs based on a systematic research approach, which includes a rigorous literature review, and semi-structured interviews. A questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate the relative importance of these 22 CSF. The results show that the top three critical success factors for China’s tourism PPPs are: adequate project evaluation and demonstration; political support and stability; clear and stable policy documents on PPP. Factor analysis indicated that the 22 CSFs could be grouped into five principal success factor groups. These insights are expected to profoundly influence the development of policies related to tourism PPPs, providing a structured framework to enhance the efficiency and success of these ventures.

Digital transformation, organizational resilience, and agility are now becoming one of the keys to meeting the competitive challenges of modern organizations. It is no surprise that digital transformation and digital technologies have also begun to significantly impact the energy industry, moving towards improving the sector's profitability and efficiency. However, to navigate through the difficult process of digital transformation in today's turbulent environment, organizations, including those in the energy sector, need to build organizational resilience. Nevertheless, the nature of the relationship between digital transformation and organizational resilience has not yet been sufficiently clarified. Focusing on the level of digital transformation, and more precisely within the two dimensions of digital maturity, i.e. digital intensity and transformation management intensity, as well as based on the perspective of dynamic capabilities, this study developed a configurational framework and proposed a theoretical model to study the equifinal paths through which digital transformation and dynamic capabilities influence organizational resilience in energy sector companies. Based on a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA) conducted on selected companies in the energy sector, i.e. Polish CHP plants, the relationship between digital transformation, dynamic capabilities and organizational resilience was investigated. The results show that a high level of organizational resilience can be achieved through two main paths based on the dominance of dynamic capabilities and the dominance of digital maturity. The study found that digital maturity can significantly influence CHP resilience. Moreover, the transformation management intensity is strongly related to high organizational resilience. The paper concludes by describing theoretical and practical implications, as well as research limitations and prospects for future research.

The overarching vision of Society 5.0 seeks to integrate technology to enhance the quality of life and address social issues, with the primary goal of creating human-centered communities, which nowadays represent the inhabitants of Smart Cities. In this context, this work addresses the design of a modular strategic platform for the smart supervision of public expenditure, to be used by the Directorate of Information, Analysis, and Immediate Reaction (DIARI) of the General Comptroller of the Republic (CGR) of Colombia as a significant contribution towards the country’s transition into the Society 5.0. The design was performed by conducting a detailed literature review on fiscal control; a comprehensive analysis of the legal, organizational, and technological aspects of the country and the CGR; and developing six functional modules focused on topics such as continuous learning, strategic decision-making, distinctive value, strategic achievements, capacity building, and organization, within a three-year implementation plan, through a participatory approach. This plan aims to integrate the platform to enable real-time monitoring, early detection of irregularities, and increased transparency in the management of data and public resources. The strategic platform for the DIARI of the CGR is useful for Smart Cities and the transition into Society 5.0 since it ensures efficient public expenditure management, enhancing transparency and citizen empowerment through modern technologies, data analytics, and active participation in governance processes.

This study considers ways to increase the consumption of sustainable fashion, given the significant environmental and social damages, associated with the industry. A series of experiments were conducted examining the impacts of choice architecture (nudges) under field conditions in collab-oration with one of Israel’s largest shopping centers. The study sought to identify which inter-ventions at the retail level successfully motivate sustainable fashion behavioral change regarding purchases and willingness to pay more, along with agreement with several statements regarding the climate crisis and sustainable fashion. Among the types of nudges examined in this field study were providing information, increasing accessibility to sustainable alternatives and appealing to social identity, in relation to demographics and green self-image. The study found that offering alterna-tives to consumers constitutes the most effective way to “nudge” consumers toward more sus-tainable purchasing behavior. Nonetheless, this does not negate the contribution of providing in-formation and strengthening social norms regarding sustainable fashion. Additionally in all groups, most participants reported that they do not know how to distinguish between sustainable and non-sustainable fashion, nor do they believe that the clothes they purchased were actually sustainable. The findings emphasize the need for policies that will increase the accessibility of sustainable fashion.

Debates regarding human capital disclosure (HCD) emphasise the usefulness of people-related information in stimulating investor confidence and building stakeholder trust. Despite this, human capital (HC) information is interwoven in most international sustainability reporting standards such as the global reporting initiative (GRI), thereby concealing the impact of human resource (HR) practices in shareholder value creation. The aim of this study is to develop a taxonomy to assess HCD in the sustainability reports to capture the true value of HC distinctively. A content analysis-based study with a deductive approach was followed by utilising the GRI standards to isolate and classify people-related information into an HCD sustainability taxonomy. 40% HC metrics were extracted from the GRI standards and subsequently classified into 7 dimensions, namely, human capital allocation, human capital wellbeing, human capital investment, human capital network, human capital governance, human capital risk and human capital earnings. Furthermore, 40 GRI content indexes of the companies listed in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) revealed that most disclosures are covered in the human capital governance and human capital earnings categories. HCD sustainability provides investors and HR professionals with a useful tool to assess people-related information from the sustainability reports for isolating the true value of HC.

The integration of supply chain analytics and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems represents a critical strategy for organizations seeking to enhance operational efficiency and customer-centricity in today's competitive business environment. This qualitative study investigates the motivations, strategies, challenges, and outcomes associated with integrating supply chain analytics with CRM systems across diverse industries. Motivations for integration include gaining a unified view of customer data, improving decision-making capabilities, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring strategic alignment across organizational functions. Strategies employed by organizations include cross-functional collaboration, investment in scalable technology platforms, and leadership commitment to drive successful integration initiatives. Despite the potential benefits, the integration process presents challenges such as data integration complexities, technical interoperability issues, and organizational resistance to change. Addressing these challenges requires robust technological solutions, effective change management strategies, and a proactive approach to data governance and security. The study identifies significant outcomes from integration efforts, including improved operational efficiency through streamlined processes and optimized resource allocation, enhanced customer insights leading to personalized experiences, and strengthened strategic decision-making supported by real-time analytics.

In response to the escalating climate-related catastrophes of recent decades and their significant impacts on global transportation systems, this study explores the concept of resilience bonds as a novel financial tool for enhancing supply chain sustainability. The research applies a case study from China to demonstrate the application of resilience bonds in funding infrastructure projects that aim to enhance the sustainability and resilience of supply chain networks. The study examines the market mechanisms and valuation models of resilience bonds, assessing their potential to mitigate risks associated with transportation failures and to reduce economic losses from unexpected disruptions. By applying empirical data, the research quantitatively evaluates the impact of resilience bonds on the sustainability and reliability of transportation systems. The findings show that resilience bonds can significantly contribute as a sustainable solution to enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability, offering insightful alternatives for financing resilient infrastructure projects. This study not only supports policymakers, investors, and business leaders in understanding innovative funding mechanisms but also makes a significant contribution to resilience financing for sustainable transportation within supply chains, especially in the context of global disruptions.

In today's volatile and competitive business landscape, achieving synergy between supply chain agility and marketing flexibility is imperative for organizations striving to enhance resilience and maintain competitiveness. This qualitative study explores the integration of these strategic elements and their impact on organizational performance in turbulent markets. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders from diverse industries to capture insights into adaptation strategies, challenges, and outcomes associated with aligning supply chain agility and marketing flexibility. Findings reveal that supply chain agility, characterized by rapid response capabilities to disruptions and fluctuating demands, is essential for optimizing operational efficiency and maintaining continuity in uncertain environments. Meanwhile, marketing flexibility enables organizations to adjust strategies swiftly based on real-time market insights, enhancing customer engagement and market responsiveness. The study identifies organizational silos, resistance to change, and technological limitations as primary barriers to achieving seamless integration. Benefits of synergy include improved customer satisfaction, accelerated time-to-market for new products, and enhanced competitive advantage through personalized marketing strategies and optimized resource allocation. Moreover, organizations that effectively integrate supply chain agility with marketing flexibility reported greater innovation, employee satisfaction, and sustainable growth.

This qualitative study explores the role of supply chain partnerships in enhancing brand value through collaborative marketing efforts. By analyzing diverse cases from industries including consumer electronics, apparel, automotive, and food and beverage, the research examines how different forms of partnerships—strategic alliances, co-marketing, joint ventures, and supplier integrations—contribute to brand value. The study employed a multiple case study design, incorporating semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and participant observations to gather data. The findings reveal that these partnerships enable companies to leverage complementary strengths, resulting in enhanced innovation, product quality, sustainability, market reach, and ethical standards. Collaborative marketing strategies such as joint product launches, sustainable branding campaigns, and co-developed customer programs are identified as key drivers of brand value, effectively increasing brand awareness, customer loyalty, market share, and perceived quality. Despite challenges like coordination complexity, goal misalignment, cultural differences, and cost management issues, the benefits realized—such as improved brand image, faster time-to-market, and reduced costs—demonstrate the substantial value of effective supply chain partnerships. The study underscores the importance of strategic alignment between supply chain activities and brand objectives, highlighting that successful partnerships foster deeper consumer engagement and stronger market positions. This research provides actionable insights for companies seeking to optimize their supply chain collaborations to enhance brand value, offering a foundation for future studies and practical applications in supply chain management and marketing. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how supply chain partnerships can be strategically managed to drive brand excellence in a competitive market environment.

Supply chain flexibility plays a pivotal role in enabling organizations to adapt their marketing strategies to evolving consumer preferences in dynamic market environments. This qualitative study explores how supply chain flexibility dimensions—responsiveness, agility, resilience, and sustainability—impact marketing strategy adaptation. Through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, insights were gathered from industry practitioners across diverse sectors. Key findings highlight that responsive supply chains facilitate quick adjustments in production, distribution, and sourcing to meet changing consumer demands. Agility enables rapid reconfiguration of operations to capitalize on market opportunities and respond to disruptions effectively. Resilient supply chains mitigate risks and maintain continuity during crises, safeguarding customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Integrating sustainability practices not only meets regulatory standards but also aligns with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products, enhancing corporate social responsibility. Technological advancements such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and cloud computing enhance supply chain visibility, optimize decision-making, and support real-time responsiveness. Despite benefits, challenges like legacy systems, organizational silos, resistance to change, and resource constraints hinder effective implementation. Overcoming these barriers requires strategic leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous investment in technology and talent. Embracing supply chain flexibility empowers organizations to navigate complexities, drive innovation, and sustain competitive advantage. By aligning supply chain capabilities with marketing strategies, companies can enhance market responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and long-term growth in today's dynamic business landscape

This study explores the dynamic interplay between supply chain integration and marketing strategies in achieving customer satisfaction. Through a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with supply chain and marketing professionals, the research delves into how these traditionally distinct functions can be aligned to enhance operational efficiency and deliver superior customer experiences. Findings reveal that strategic alignment between supply chain management (SCM) and marketing fosters better coordination of product availability and service delivery, thereby meeting customer expectations consistently and enhancing brand loyalty. Information sharing and technological integration emerge as critical enablers, facilitating real-time data exchange and collaborative decision-making. The study also identifies challenges such as organizational silos, cultural resistance, and technological constraints that impede seamless integration, highlighting the need for proactive strategies to foster cross-functional collaboration. Additionally, the evolving roles of sustainability and customer-centricity are emphasized as key drivers for differentiating brands and achieving competitive advantage. By integrating sustainable practices and adopting a customer-centric approach, organizations can build stronger customer relationships and enhance their market position. The research underscores the importance of leadership support, investment in technology, and a collaborative organizational culture in overcoming integration barriers. The study’s findings provide actionable insights for organizations aiming to optimize their SCM and marketing strategies, drive innovation, and sustain growth in an increasingly complex and competitive business environment. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on supply chain and marketing integration, offering practical recommendations for achieving customer satisfaction and long-term success.

This study investigates the relationship between authentic leadership and socially responsible behavior among employees in Saudi Arabia's service sector. Utilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the research proposes that authentic leadership indirectly influences socially responsible behavior through psychological empowerment and psychological capital as parallel and serial mediators. Additionally, the study examines the moderating effect of CSR perceptions on these relationships. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 349 professionals from the service sector. The results, analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), revealed that authentic leadership does not directly impact SRB. Instead, the relationship is fully mediated by psychological empowerment and psychological capital. Moreover, CSR perceptions significantly moderate the relationship between authentic leadership and psychological empowerment, as well as the indirect effects of authentic leadership on SRB through psychological empowerment and psychological capital. The findings highlight the importance of fostering an authentic leadership style and how psychological resources of empowerment, and psychological capital carry forward this effect to promote SRB in the service sector. Additionally, the study underscores the role of CSR perceptions in strengthening the impact of authentic leadership on employee outcomes. The research contributes to the literature on leadership, CSR, and employee behavior, and offers practical implications for organizations aiming to enhance their social responsibility initiatives.

The qualitative research on the influence of supply chain risk management (SCRM) on marketing strategies during economic uncertainty explores the complex interplay between these two critical areas. Conducted through in-depth interviews with industry professionals across various sectors, the study examines how organizations manage supply chain risks and adapt their marketing strategies in response to challenges such as natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, economic downturns, and pandemics. The findings reveal that these risks significantly impact marketing efforts by causing supply shortages, delays, increased costs, and demand fluctuations, necessitating rapid adjustments in promotional activities, pricing strategies, and communication with customers. Key strategies for integrating SCRM with marketing include leveraging technology for real-time supply chain monitoring, building strong supplier relationships, diversifying supply sources, and enhancing communication and collaboration between supply chain and marketing teams. These practices enable organizations to enhance their resilience and responsiveness, ensuring that marketing strategies are aligned with the evolving realities of the supply chain. The study also identifies challenges such as organizational silos, lack of cross-functional collaboration, resistance to change, and limited technological capabilities, which can hinder effective integration. Addressing these barriers through fostering collaboration, investing in technology, and promoting change management is essential for achieving successful integration. The outcomes of this integration include improved supply chain resilience, enhanced customer satisfaction, increased marketing agility, and a stronger competitive position. The research underscores the importance of a holistic and adaptive approach to integrating SCRM with marketing strategies, providing valuable insights for organizations seeking to navigate economic uncertainty and sustain their growth in a rapidly changing environment.

Climate change continues to be a problem that is being discussed in various parts of the world. The hottest issue of concern is carbon emissions. The increase in carbon emissions was reported by the SAINS Global Carbon Project team in the Earth Systematic Science Data Journal. Disclosure of carbon emissions is part of sustainability reporting. Although several studies have revealed the determinants of carbon emission disclosure in companies, it is still not fully disclosed, one of the determinants of carbon emission disclosure is media exposure. Therefore, this study aims to fill this gap with the intention of revisiting the factors that influence carbon emission disclosure with the main focus on exploring the role of media exposure and disclosure practices. This study uses the SLR method with the help of Watase-Uake to search for relevant articles. The 43 articles deemed relevant were systematically reviewed to fill the gaps of previous research. The results show that the role of the media in encouraging disclosure of corporate carbon emissions information is mixed and inconsistent. The results also indicate that stakeholder pressure, good corporate governance, and the unique characteristics of each company are key factors that can influence voluntary disclosure of carbon emission information by companies.

Background. The minimum wage has become a standard measure in economic and social policies of countries all over the world and it directly or indirectly affects between 20% and 30% of the labour force. The primary objective of this measure is to guarantee that workers receive a minimum wage that allows them to lead a decent life, thereby reducing inequality and poverty. However, studies on the minimum wage have not focused on assessing the effects on these dimensions, but on employment, anticipating a negative effect (in line with the traditional theory of perfect competition), which they have been unable to substantiate. Objectives and Methods. The objective of this study is to address this research gap by analysing the effects of minimum wage increases on income inequality and poverty. To this end, firstly, a systematic review of the empirical analyses was conducted using the PRISMA methodology, with a view to ensuring that all empirical evidence was available. Secondly, the Spanish case was examined. As the significant increase in minimum wage in Spain in 2019 (21,3% in real terms) presents an invaluable opportunity to utilise this event as a natural experiment to generate new evidence, a difference-in-differences approach was employed to assess the impact of this phenomenon. Results. In relation to the first objective, a number of non-exhaustive and outdated literature reviews have been identified, which have been subjected to a critical review. In addition, a total of 31 articles that empirically analysed this relationship in recent years (2020-2024) have been included. The available evidence indicates a clear inverse relationship between the minimum wage and inequalities and poverty. Regarding the Spanish case, there has been a dearth of scientific studies on this subject, particularly in the context of the significant increase observed in 2019, which makes this article of particular relevance. The results are statistically significant, demonstrating an increase of approximately 18% in annual gross income among low-income households, relative to the control group. Furthermore, there is evidence of a spillover effect and a lighthouse effect towards income groups closer to the treatment group. This suggests that the minimum wage increase has a positive impact on the income of workers earning just above the new minimum and even below it. This result is consistent with the existing literature, which shows that minimum wage increases have a positive effect on the income of workers earning slightly above or below the new minimum. Scientific contribution. In doing so, two new basic scientific contributions were made: a systematic, exhaustive, and up-to-date literature review (up to June 2024), as there is, to our knowledge, no recent systematic review of this relationship (minimum wage vs. inequality). Then, the introduction of new scientific evidence demonstrating that a significant increase in the minimum wage can significantly improve the income of low-wage earners without the adverse effects that would otherwise disrupt this positive effect, thereby reducing income inequality and poverty. As a limitation of the study, it would be desirable to delve deeper into other aspects not analysed here, such as the effects on productivity and consumption. Furthermore, it has not been possible to analyse the medium and long-term effects, due to data limitations. Nevertheless, there is evidence that inequality and poverty are on a downward path.

This qualitative research investigates the role of collaborative planning in synchronizing supply chain and marketing activities among multinational companies (MNCs). Collaborative planning integrates traditionally separate functions to enhance operational efficiency, customer responsiveness, and strategic alignment. The study employs semi-structured interviews with key informants from diverse MNCs across industries and geographies to explore practices, challenges, and outcomes associated with collaborative planning initiatives. Findings highlight the pivotal role of cross-functional collaboration and advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics, in improving demand forecasting accuracy, optimizing inventory management, and enabling personalized marketing strategies. Challenges include organizational resistance, cultural barriers, and the complexity of aligning global strategies. Strategic outcomes encompass improved operational efficiency, cost savings, enhanced customer satisfaction, and strengthened competitive advantage. Moreover, the integration of sustainability goals underscores the importance of environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance in collaborative planning frameworks. The study also identifies emerging trends in digital transformation and agile supply chains shaping future practices. Overall, collaborative planning emerges as a strategic imperative for MNCs to navigate complexities, capitalize on opportunities, and sustain growth in a globalized marketplace.

Supply chain transparency plays a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and building brand trust in today's competitive marketplace. This qualitative study explores the impact of supply chain transparency on consumer behavior, focusing on its influence on brand trust and purchase decisions. Through semi-structured interviews with 30 participants, the research examines consumer attitudes towards transparency, highlighting key factors that influence trustworthiness and credibility perceptions of brands. The findings reveal that consumers prioritize brands that demonstrate openness about their sourcing, production practices, and ethical standards, viewing transparency as a critical indicator of corporate responsibility and integrity. Factors such as product safety, environmental sustainability, and labor practices within supply chains emerge as significant concerns driving consumer preference for transparent brands. Demographic insights indicate that younger consumers and those with higher education levels exhibit heightened sensitivity to transparency issues, underscoring a generational and educational divide in consumer expectations. Moreover, income levels influence the perceived importance of transparency, with higher-income participants showing greater preference for brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. Challenges associated with supply chain transparency, including information overload and concerns about greenwashing, highlight the complexities brands face in effectively communicating their ethical commitments to consumers. The study concludes by advocating for strategic transparency initiatives that integrate sustainability, technology-enabled verification, and stakeholder engagement to build consumer trust and competitive advantage. By addressing these insights, brands can navigate the evolving landscape of consumer expectations and regulatory requirements, fostering long-term relationships based on trust and ethical business practices.

The attempt of this study made us to Study the Competency Mapping (CM) in Software Companies”. CM is a process of categorizing the gap of a person or an employee’s performance routine or professional related skills to fill the gaps through effective programs. (1) Background: Integrating competencies such as “Developing people through Empowering and Training Programs, Providing Feedback, and Rewards, Recognizing the Employee for their work, Effective Communication, Aligning right values ensuring standards, etc. to evaluate and improve the performance an employee to get desired results; (2) Methods: This study involved 100 software employees (n = 100) to state that the competencies that are mapped have a significant impact on performance.. Chi- square and one – way ANOVA tests we used to identify the relationship between two variables; (3) Results: Goal oriented people can adopt the changes and work in any kind of circumstance for better outcomes; (4) Conclusions: competencies that are mapped have a significant impact on performance. And the person who is goal oriented will try to achieve his/her goals in any type of circumstances.

Currently, there has been a tendency for companies to direct the development of their businesses following circular economy trends associated with sustainability. European Community guidelines have established deadlines for the implementation of management strategies that allow creating and maintaining an effective and resource-efficient economic system, reducing the amount of en-ergy and materials used in production. In this scenario, this study makes sense, which aims to an-alyze academic studies on these topics with the aim of understanding future trends. In this sense, the objective of this study is to understand the potential impacts on business development of the inte-gration of sustainability and the circular economy. This article uses a systematic literature review, which has the objective of gather and analyze materials from different authors, carrying out an analysis to answer a specific question. The findings indicate that CE and sustainability are con-nected and businesses should implement sustainability and CE appropriate strategies to increase their competitiveness and improve resource efficiency. These strategies may integrate innovative technologies, the use of sharing platforms, product life extension, resource recovery to minimize waste and the integration of sustainability concepts in business as well as their communication with their stakeholders to change trends and behaviors.

The present research focuses on the endogenous development theory and investigates the relationship between economic growth (dependent variable) and renewable energy consumption, technological innovation, and export diversification (independent variables) in seven emerging economies known as the E-7. Previous studies have examined these factors individually but have not explored their combined impact on the E-7 economies. Therefore, this study contributes to the existing literature on the effects of renewable energy consumption, technological advancement, and export diversification on economic development. The study analyses the dynamic connection among these variables in seven selected emerging countries: Brazil, China, Indonesia, India, Mexico, Russia, and Turkey. Panel data from 1990 to 2022 is utilized, and various methodologies, including panel cointegration, the PMG-ARDL estimator, and robustness tests such as FMOLS and DOLS, are employed. Empirical inferences are drawn using the Dumitrescu-Hurlin Panel Causality (DHC) test, and the long-run relationships among the variables are validated using the Westerlund residual cointegration tests. The results from the PMG-ARDL estimator show that renewable energy consumption, technological advancement, and export diversification have a significant and positive impact on economic expansion, confirming the validity of the endogenous growth model in the E-7 countries. The control variable of the financial sector has a positive but insignificant effect on economic growth, while trade openness has a negative and significant effect. The DHC test results indicate a neutral feedback effect of renewable energy consumption on economic growth. The findings also reveal a unidirectional causal relationship between technological innovation and economic growth. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights for economic policymakers in the E-7 countries. By removing barriers to renewable energy consumption, technological innovation, and export diversification, policymakers can promote sustainable economic development.

This study addresses the formidable challenge of solving large-scale Max-Cut problems (MCP). We introduce a rapid computational procedure utilizing a hybrid 1-flip/r-flip local search heuristic. This innovative strategy significantly reduces the computational time required for MCP problems while consistently generating solutions of exceptional quality. The paper presents substantial computational insights, showcasing the effectiveness of our approach on large-scale Max-Cut instances with varying densities. Our proposed heuristic is rigorously evaluated by comparing its performance against a quantum annealing solver, leveraging a multi-start Tabu Search framework. The results underscore the potency of this unique combination as an efficient and effective solution for large-scale QUBO problems. Notably, our hybrid heuristic consistently delivers high-quality solutions within the stringent CPU time limits of 600 seconds, demonstrating its efficacy across Max-Cut instances ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 variables. This research contributes to advancing the state-of-the-art in large-scale QUBO problem-solving, offering a powerful and time-efficient approach with broad applicability.

This qualitative study explores consumer responses to sustainable supply chains and green marketing strategies, aiming to uncover insights into consumer behavior, perceptions, and attitudes towards sustainability in the marketplace. Through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 30 participants, the study examines key factors influencing consumer trust in green marketing claims, barriers to adopting sustainable products, generational differences in attitudes towards sustainability, and the impact of social media on consumer perceptions. Findings reveal that consumers value transparency and credibility in green claims, preferring products certified by trusted third parties and companies that demonstrate transparent supply chain practices. Higher pricing, concerns about product effectiveness, and limited availability emerged as significant barriers to consumer adoption of sustainable products, highlighting the need for cost competitiveness and increased market accessibility. Generational cohorts, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, exhibit strong inclinations towards sustainability-driven behaviors, shaping market trends towards ethical consumption practices. Social media plays a pivotal role in influencing consumer perceptions, disseminating information about sustainability, and fostering engagement with environmental issues. The study underscores the importance of clear communication, consumer education, and supportive regulatory frameworks in promoting sustainable consumption behaviors. Practical implications include recommendations for businesses to enhance transparency, innovate sustainable products, align with consumer values, leverage social media platforms, and advocate for regulatory measures that uphold environmental standards. By addressing these insights, businesses and policymakers can effectively meet consumer expectations and contribute to sustainable development goals in the global marketplace.

Food security is the cornerstone of national security, and exploring the resilience of the grain industry chain is particularly important under the current complex and changing external environment. The study is to evaluate the grain industry chain resilience and identify its influencing factors. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces (cities) in China from 2011 to 2022, this paper adopted Partial Least Squares structural equation modeling method to carry out comprehensive evaluation, applied Dagum Gini coefficient to analyze spatial differences, and used geo-detectors to identify the influencing factors. The results showed that (1) from an overall perspective, the resilience of China's grain industry chain showed an overall upward trend, and each region had been greatly improved; (2) from the perspective of spatial differences, the overall spatial variability of China's grain industry chain is relatively small, and the gap mainly originates from inter-regional differences; (3) from the perspective of influencing factors, the level of grain foreign trade, regional market size and agricultural innovation level were important factors. In order to enhance the resilience of China's grain industry chain, based on the heterogeneous characteristics, the coordinated development of each region should be integrated, and the endogenous power should be given full play to enhance the resilience of the industry chain.

This research assesses the effectiveness of the Socio-Technical Assistance (STA) program combined with Owner-Driven Housing Reconstruction for rural private housing recovery after Nepal’s 2015 earthquake, particularly targeting vulnerable households. Through a quantitative 304-questionnaire survey, the study reveals that 96% of households credited STA activities for accelerating reconstruction, with 95% acknowledging its significance and 78% emphasizing its necessity. Notably,89% expressed dependency on STA for reconstruction, and 85% believed it heightened disaster risk reduction awareness. In conclusion, the study establishes that STA activities significantly contributed to the successful reconstruction of vulnerable households, addressing critical aspects such as financial support, technical assistance, housing accessibility, earthquake-resilient construction, improved livelihoods, and safety enhancements. The field study presents crucial recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of Socio-Technical Assistance (STA) activities in post-earthquake rural private housing reconstruction. Emphasizing the need for tailored, demand-driven interventions, the study cautions against relying solely on an Owner-driven Reconstruction model, challenging the one-size-fits-all strategy. The study proposes integrating tailored interventions into overarching recovery strategies, advocating for coordinated efforts to enhance Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) awareness and cultivate resilient communities in particularly vulnerable households. Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities. This research aims to enhance the literature on post-disaster humanitarian shelter and settlement by emphasizing the significance of inclusive and comprehensive approaches to recovery and reconstruction.

Aligning supply chain and marketing functions is crucial for high-tech startups aiming to successfully launch new products in competitive markets. This qualitative research explores the strategies, challenges, benefits, and best practices associated with supply chain and marketing alignment in high-tech startups. Through a detailed analysis of case studies and semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, the study identifies key insights into how startups can effectively integrate these functions to enhance operational efficiency, market responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and risk management. The findings reveal that successful alignment requires the formation of cross-functional teams, leveraging integrated technologies like CRM and ERP systems, establishing regular inter-departmental communication, and developing joint performance metrics. These strategies foster collaboration and ensure that supply chain and marketing efforts are coordinated towards shared goals. However, startups face challenges such as differing departmental objectives, resource constraints, communication barriers, and technological limitations, which hinder effective alignment. Benefits observed from effective alignment include improved operational efficiency through streamlined processes, enhanced market responsiveness to adapt quickly to changing demands, increased customer satisfaction by delivering products that meet market expectations, and better risk management through proactive identification and mitigation of supply chain and market risks. Best practices identified include fostering a culture of collaboration, investing in technology for data integration and transparency, aligning strategic objectives across functions, and continuously monitoring and adjusting alignment strategies. Integration of broader elements such as sustainability, entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, marketing, and supplier relationship management further enriches the alignment framework. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how high-tech startups can strategically align their supply chain and marketing functions to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable growth in dynamic market environments.

This research aims to analyze the impact of Social Responsibility on the performance of 216 European companies during the years 2017 to 2021. The objective of this research is to determine how the operational, financial and market performance of companies is influenced by social responsibility practices. The methodology adopted is quantitative in nature, using the estimation of dynamic models for panel data. To quantify corporate performance, this study will use, the return on assets, the return on equity and finally the Tobin's Q ratio. On the other hand, ESG (Environment, Social and Government) scores and GC Score scores will be used in order to quantify SR. The results show that SR presents not only a negative influence on the financial and operational performance of companies, but also a positive impact on market performance. This influence is even greater when distinguishing the best from the worst scores. The environment, social and government dimension shows a negative relationship with ROA and ROE, and a positive one with Tobin's Q. On the other hand, the anti-corruption and environment dimension of the GC Score, relates negatively with Tobin's Q, the human rights dimension relates negatively with ROE and ROA, and finally, the labor law dimension presents a positive relationship with ROE. Importantly, firm size positively influences this relationship, while age has a negative influence. This research offers important contributions to the literature, since from the ESG scores and the GC Score, a complete analysis of the impact of social responsibility on corporate performance is developed.

The main objective of this study is to analyze the impact of investment in Research & Development on the performance and value of companies, that is, to try to explain how R&D investment influences the companies’ performance. For this purpose, a dynamic panel data model was estimated using the Generalized Method of Moments, which made possible to measure the impact of R&D investment on performance through the Return on Operating Assets ratio for the Portuguese companies that invested the most between 2012 to 2019. The results show that the investment in R&D is not statistically significant in explaining the operating return on assets. However, the lagged financial performance in one period, the leverage, the asset turnover ratio and the accounts payable turnover show to have impact on the variable under study.

In the following article, we analyzed a variable present in the ISTAT-BES dataset, namely "People You Can Count On"-PYCC for the Italian regions. Following an analysis of the time series aimed at highlighting the trends of the regions, we created a clustering with a k-Means algorithm optimized with the Silhouette coefficient. The data shows the presence of two clusters. We then present an econometric model aimed at estimating the value of PYCC based on a set of socio-economic variables. The results are also discussed in light of the economic policy implications.

This qualitative research investigates how supply chain innovations drive marketing differentiation in consumer goods companies. In a competitive global marketplace, firms are increasingly leveraging advanced supply chain management (SCM) practices to enhance operational efficiency and create distinctive market positions. The study explores five key supply chain innovations—digitalization, sustainability practices, predictive analytics, agile supply chain models, and collaborative partnerships—and their impact on marketing differentiation strategies. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 executives and managers from leading consumer goods companies, analyzing themes related to innovation adoption, challenges, and outcomes. Findings indicate that digital technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain are pivotal in improving supply chain visibility, optimizing inventory management, and enabling real-time decision-making, thereby supporting personalized customer experiences and agile responses to market dynamics. Sustainability practices, including sustainable sourcing and green logistics, emerge as critical drivers of brand reputation and consumer trust, aligning with growing consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Predictive analytics facilitate better demand forecasting and pricing strategies, while agile supply chain models enhance flexibility and responsiveness in delivering products faster to market. Despite benefits, challenges include integrating innovations with legacy systems, managing resistance to change, and addressing data security concerns. Strategies for overcoming these barriers include leadership commitment, cross-functional collaboration, talent development, and strategic partnerships. By embracing these strategies and innovations, consumer goods companies can strengthen their competitive positioning, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Money demand is the amount of real money balance with people and they can decide at any time what part of their assets to keep in cash. In this study, money was assumed to be a durable good that leads to the flow of some kind of service. Therefore, money became a function of utility. Using AIDS elasticity demand function, income, price and cross elasticities were evaluated. The statistics of this study are related to the years 2003-2022. The results showed that, based on the assumption of three goods, the demand includes bills and negotiable instruments, demand deposits, and time deposits. Based on the limitation of symmetry, collectability and homogeneity, the tensions can be calculated. The results showed that the price elasticity of demand for banknotes and muskox with term deposits is not significant. On the other hand, the cross tension between sight deposits and term deposits is negative and significant.

This qualitative study explores the relationship between supply chain responsiveness (SCR) and customer loyalty within the e-commerce sector. E-commerce has revolutionized global commerce, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. Central to e-commerce success is the ability to meet customer expectations swiftly and reliably, necessitating agile supply chain management (SCM) practices. SCR in e-commerce encompasses the capacity to adapt to dynamic market demands, minimize disruptions, and enhance customer satisfaction through efficient logistics, inventory management, and last-mile delivery. Through in-depth interviews with customers, e-commerce platform managers, and supply chain practitioners, this study investigates key themes, challenges, strategies, and impacts associated with SCR and customer loyalty. Findings reveal that customers prioritize fast order fulfillment, reliable service quality, personalized experiences, and trustworthy interactions, all of which significantly influence their loyalty and advocacy behaviors. Challenges identified include inventory management complexities, logistical hurdles in last-mile delivery, and the need for effective supplier communication. Strategic approaches to enhance SCR include leveraging data analytics for demand forecasting, adopting agile SCM practices, integrating customer feedback into service improvements, and fostering collaborative relationships with suppliers. These strategies not only optimize operational efficiency but also cultivate enduring customer relationships based on satisfaction, trust, and loyalty. The study concludes that improved SCR practices lead to increased customer satisfaction, repeat purchases, and positive word-of-mouth, thereby strengthening competitive advantage and sustainability in the e-commerce marketplace.