Showing papers in "European journal of management in 2020"

Economic policy uncertainty and Bitcoin. Is Bitcoin a safe-haven asset?

Abstract: The goal of this work is to determine whether Bitcoin behaves as a safe-haven asset. In order to do so, the influence of Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) on Bitcoin returns and volatility was studied.,It is evaluated whether, when compared with the evolution of EPU, Bitcoin's returns and volatility show behaviours typical of safe havens or rather, those of conventional speculative assets. When faced with an increase in EPU, safe havens – such as gold – can be expected to increase their returns and volatility, while conventional speculative assets will increase their volatility and reduce their returns. This study uses simple linear regression and quantile regression models on a daily data sample from 19 July 2010 to 11 April 2019, to analyse the influence of EPU on the returns and volatility of Bitcoin and gold.,Bitcoin's returns and volatility increase during more uncertain times, just like gold, showing that Bitcoin acts not only as a means of exchange but also shows characteristics of investment assets, specifically of safe havens. These findings provide useful information to investors by allowing Bitcoin to be considered as a tool to protect savings in times of economic uncertainty and to diversify portfolios.,This study complements and expands current research by aiming to answer the question of whether Bitcoin is a simple speculative asset or a safe haven. The most significant contribution is to show that Bitcoin is not a mere speculative asset but behaves like a safe haven.,本研究旨在確定比特幣是不是避難所資產。為達這目的，研究人員探討了經濟政策不確定性對比特幣的回報及波動性的影響。,研究評估比特幣的回報和波動性，若與經濟政策不確定的進化作比較，會顯示資金避難所的典型行為，抑或顯示傳統投機資產的行為。當面對經濟政策不確定的增加時，資金避難所 - 如黃金－會被預期有回報及波動性的上升。但傳統投機資產則其波動性會增加及其回報會減少。本研究使用簡單線性迴歸及分位數迴歸模型，根據從2010年7月19曰至2019年4月11日期間每天的數據樣本，來分析經濟政策不確定對比特幣和黃金的回報及波動性所產生的影響。,像黃金一樣，在較不明朗的時期，比特幣的回報和波動會增加，這顯示比特幣不單是一個交易工具，它也表現投資資產的特性，特別是資金避難所的特性。這研究結果為投資者提供有用的資訊，讓他們在經濟不明朗時考慮以比特幣作為保障存款的工具，及以比特幣作為使其投資組合更多元化的工具。,本研究旨在探索比特幣是一簡單的投機資產、抑或是一資金避難所，這補足及擴展了目前的研究。本研究最重要的貢獻、在於顯示了比特幣不單純是一種投機資產，它的行為實像資金避難所一樣。

Gamification in sport apps: the determinants of users' motivation

Abstract: Gamification is a tool with great potential to motivate individuals to increase their physical activity. That is why sport apps for mobile devices, such as Nike+ or Strava, have integrated game elements. There is, however, little evidence of gamification's effectiveness in this field. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to analyze the impact of game elements included in gamified sports' apps on the satisfaction of basic psychological needs (i.e. competence, autonomy and relatedness). Similarly, the research analyzes the impact of these needs on autonomous motivation.,To achieve these goals, data were collected from users of gamified sport apps, using an online questionnaire. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.,The results showed that interaction in the app with achievement-related game elements satisfied the needs for competence, autonomy and relatedness; social-related elements satisfied the need for relatedness; and immersion-related elements satisfied the needs for competence and autonomy. Similarly, satisfaction of the needs for autonomy and relatedness while using the app is crucial to experience autonomous motivation.,The findings of this study provide guidelines for practitioners and app developers.,Based on self-determination theory, the paper provides new insights into the relationship between game elements included in sport apps and individuals' basic psychological needs and motivation.,遊戲化在推動人們增加其體力活動方面是有極大潛能的。因此，設於流動通訊設施的運動應用程式如耐克(Nike)及Strava等都結合了遊戲的元素。唯遊戲化在這領域的功效方面的證明並不多。因此，本研究的目的，在於分析遊戲化運動應用程式內的遊戲元素，對滿足基本心理需要的影響 (即是說，能力水平、自主及關聯性)。同樣地，本研究分析這些需要對自主積極性的影響。,要達到這些目標，數據以一項網上問卷調查方法取自遊戲化運動應用程式的使用者。數據並以偏最小二乘結構方程模型進行分析。,研究結果顯示、在帶有成就相關的遊戲元素的應用程式內的互動滿足了能力水平、自主和關聯性的需要; 與社交有關的元素滿足了關聯性的需要，而與沉浸相關的元素則滿足了能力水平和自主的需要。同樣地，使用應用程式時，要能體驗自主動機、關鍵在於自主及相關性的需要得到滿足。,本研究結果為執業者及應用程式開發商提供了指引。,以自決理論為基礎，本研究為運動應用程式包含的遊戲元素與個人的基本心理需要和動機之間的關係提供新的見解。

Relationship between slack resources and performance: temporal symmetry and duration of effects

Abstract: Although slack resources and their relationship to performance have been widely studied in the literature, the temporal symmetry of this relationship, and the duration of its effects, are still unknown aspects and are the objective of this paper.,To evaluate this effect, an exploratory study has been designed on a sample of 449 Spanish industrial companies over a period of 12 years, assessing the impact of idle resources on economic and financial profitability. By means of hierarchical regressions, the short- term, medium- term and long-term effects of slack resources have been evaluated.,The results show that the impact on performance depends on the type of resource considered. Available slack has a consistent and positive effect on economic profitability in the short term. Other types of slack show persistent effects on performance, but, in the case of the recoverable slack, with a negative sign that contradicts the benefits provided by these resources. Finally, potential slack only has a permanent effect on financial profitability, but the sign changes depending on the economic context under consideration. There are also differences in the duration of the effects according to the type of resources.,This paper advances the knowledge about the slack-performance relationship over time that has been scarcely studied.,閒置資源與表現的關係從文獻中可見得到廣泛的研究。唯這關係的時間對稱性及其影響的持續期則是未知之數，這正是本研究的目的。,此為一探索性研究，以評估這影響。研究樣本為449 間西班牙工業公司，研究為期12年，目的為評估閒置資源對經濟和財務盈利能力的影響。研究使用層次回歸，評估了閒置資源的短期、中期及長期的影響。,研究結果顯示、閒置資源對表現的影響是視乎被考慮之資源所屬種類的。可用冗餘就短期而言，對經濟盈利能力產生一貫積極的影響。其它種類的閒置資源對表現有持續的影響。但可恢復的冗餘，則與這些資源會帶來好處的現象相矛盾，帶來負面跡象。最後、潛在的冗餘對財務盈利能力只產生持久的影響，唯有關的跡象則會視乎被考慮的經濟環境而改變。致於影響的持續期則會根據資源的種類而有所不同。,本研究使我們更了解冗餘與表現在時間推移上的關係，而探討這關係的研究是罕見的。﹞

Campaign participation, spreading electronic word of mouth, purchase: how to optimise corporate social responsibility, CSR, effectiveness via social media?

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate how to optimise corporate social responsibility (CSR) when communicating via social media. In particular, the communication type, cause proximity and CSR motives are addressed facing the increased demand for transparency and the grown consumers' expectations towards socially responsible brands. Design/methodology/approach: Online survey was developed, based on a profound literature review and a field research we did on the actual social media behaviour of socially responsible brands. Consumers attitudes and behavioural reactions in terms of willingness to participate in a campaign, to spread e-WOM and to purchase were investigated, as a function of CSR motives (value vs performance vs value and performance) and cause proximity (national vs international), respectively, with monologue (study 1) and dialogue communication type (study 2). Findings: Cause proximity enhanced the campaign participation, and this effect was pronounced for both, monologue and dialogue type of communication. CSR motives modulated the willingness to spread electronic word-of-mouth, and this holds for both, monologue and dialogue communication. Attitudes and purchase intention were highest when value- and performance-driven motives were communicated, but these effects appeared only when the message was in a dialogue form of communication. Message credibility and CSR motives credibility perception further modulated consumers response. Practical implications: The outcomes could be used in developing marketing (communication) strategies leading to values and revenues optimisation.

Antecedents and consequences of brand hate: empirical evidence from the telecommunication industry

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study is to place the antecedents and consequences of brand hate in the context of negative consumer–brand relationship in the telecommunication industry. It provides a response to the existing gap in the research on brand hate in consumer behavior in service brands. Design/methodology/approach – A survey-based data was modeled after theory that aims to apply concepts to the telecommunications industry. With a solid model grounded and context-adapted, a mediation analysis of the role of brand hate in negative antecedents and consequences toward brands was performed. Findings – Brand hate was found to mediate all the negative relationships proposed, while showing to be especially significant in mediating negative word of mouth. This model appropriately fits the services’ marketing brand and revealed new insights into the function of brand hate in negative relationships that are specific to service marketing consumer brands. Research limitations/implications – Branding theory may benefit from deeper insights into the negative side of consumer–brand relationships. A broader illustration of its constituents in different industries and the recovery of the management approach to these circumstances bring innovation and a richer understanding, specially to the role of brand hate in the mediation context as seen in the literature (Hegner et al., 2017; Zarantonello et al., 2016) Practical implications – Managerial implications include assessing brands in analyzing and relating to different emotions and concepts from customers, allowing to prioritize and mapping the customer relationship touchpoints. Originality/value – The present study presents a first insight of brand hate in the context of the service industry of telecommunications in southern Europe while testing brand hate as a mediator involving negative predictors leading to negative outcomes in consumer–brand relationships.

Online dating apps as a marketing channel: a generational approach

Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to understand if an online dating app is considered an acceptable channel to conduct advertising activities and understand the differences between Generations X, Y and Z for such acceptance. Design/methodology/approach – A total of 411 Tinder users’ reactions were obtained and analyzed using text mining to compute the sentiment score of each response, and a Kruskal–Wallis H test to verify if there are statistical differences between each generation. Findings – The results showed positive acceptability toward the marketing campaign on Tinder, especially Z Generation. Nevertheless, the statistical analysis revealed that the differences between each generation are not statistically significant. Research limitations/implications – The main limitation relates to the fact that the participants, during the data collection, revealed their identification, perhaps leading to acquiescence bias. In addition, the study mainly covered the male population. A balanced sample would be positive to examine any possible differences between gender. Practical implications – Results provide an essential indication for companies regarding their marketing activities conducted on Tinder to fully exploit the possibility of using Tinder as an alternative and valuable channel to conduct marketing activities. Originality/value –Up until now, no studies tried to understand the effect of a marketing activity online on an online dating app

A study of the influence of workplace ostracism on employees' performance: moderating effect of perceived organizational support

Abstract: Based on the conservation of resource theory, this study developed and tested the relationship between workplace ostracism and job performance. And it assumes that the direct link between workplace ostracism and supervisor-rated in-role performance/organizational citizenship behavior is moderated by perceived organizational support.,For this, this study used a survey method and multiple regression analyses with multisource data from 256 Korean employees and their supervisors.,The results suggest the following. First, workplace ostracism was negatively associated with supervisor-rated in-role performance and organizational citizenship behaviors. Second, there was a stronger negative relationship between workplace ostracism and supervisor-rated in-role performance/organizational citizenship behaviors for employees with low as opposed to those with high levels of perceived organizational support.,This study is the first one to examine the moderating effect of perceived organizational support on the relationship between workplace ostracism and supervisor-rated in-role performance/organizational citizenship behavior.,以資源守恆論為基礎，本研究發展並測試了工作場所排斥與工作表現的關係。本研究假設感知組織支持會緩和工作場所排斥與主管評價的角色中的表現／組織公民行為之間的直接聯繫。,就此而言，本研究採用了調查方法及多元回歸分析法。多源數據取自256名韓國人僱員及其主管。,研究結果有以下的顯示：第一、工作場所排斥與主管評價的角色中的表現及組織公民行為有負相關的關係。第二、就工作場所排斥與主管評價的角色中的表現／組織公民行為的反向關連的關係而言，感知組織支持水平低的僱員，相對於水平高的僱員，呈現更強的負相關。,這是首個研究、去探討感知組識支持在工作場所排斥與主管評價的角色中的表現／組織公民行為間之關係上所起的調節作用。﹞

New evidence on accelerator performance based on funding and location

Abstract: Seed accelerators (SAs) appear as a more advanced version of business incubators. These for-profit organizations in exchange of equity, help setting new start-ups by providing mentoring and funding during its first months. Due to their emergent nature, the impact and expectations of SAs remains largely unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to throw new light on this field by empirically assessing for the first time the performance and prospects of these organizations through a survey of 116 SAs.,A model based on the Business Incubators literature is built with four categories covering size, location, age and profitability variables, leading to two hypotheses to be tested empirically over a survey of 116 SAs.,Some remarkable findings arise after implementation of both bivariate and multivariate analysis. The results confirm a higher size and performance in the US and in the oldest SAs at statistically significant levels.,The study is not free from limitations but the findings make a contribution to the still scarce existing literature on SAs, and provide some managerial implications to their stockholders, to investors and to entrepreneurs.,The findings concerning performance indicators are especially helpful for investors, primarily concerned with the percentage return on investment factor, the period and the investment rounds needed to achieve exit. Another key issue is the SA's role as an employment seedbed. At first glance, the amount of employment, both overall and per company, might seem small given the young age of these firms. The impact of SAs on the generation of new employment is difficult to measure as it usually takes place in further stages of development of the tenant companies, the so-called scale-up process. Nonetheless, at present, the number of new companies being born is remarkable and, in terms of employment, the results are indeed promising. Our findings also offer important implications for entrepreneurs, venture investors and policy-makers. To entrepreneurs, our findings offer insight on the expectations to hold in the accelerator programs.,For policy-makers and would-be accelerator founders, our results support the idea shared in the literature that accelerators can be an effective entrepreneurial intervention, even in small entrepreneurial ecosystems, compared to the strongest entrepreneurial hubs (Hallen et al., 2017).,SAs are a very recent phenomenon which is blooming all over the world, especially in developed countries. SAs are therefore considered a key agent in the prospects of any entrepreneurial ecosystem. However, no studies have so far analysed the impact and performance of this emerging instrument. This is precisely the main purpose of this paper, to offer for the first time an approximate and exploratory assessment on the impact and prospects of SAs, based on a database.,種子促進中心，以企業孵化中心的更高級版本的形態出現。這些營利組織、在企業剛開始營運的首數個月內提供指導及資金，以換來股權。由於種子促進中心是從未有過的，故其影響及人們寄予的期望大致仍為未知之數。因此，本研究旨在這範疇內提供新的知識，以實證方法，透過調查116間種子促進中心，首次對這類組織的表現及前景進行了評估。,研究人員根據關於企業孵化中心的文獻建立了一個模型，內容包括四個範疇，﹔涵蓋的變量為：規模大小、地域位置、經營年期及盈利狀況。這模型提供了兩個以實證方法、透過調查116間種子促進中心來進行驗證的假設。,透過進行二元及多元分析取得卓越的研究結果。研究結果確認了在美國的種子促進中心及歷史最悠久的種子促進中心在統計意義上顯著地呈較具規模及表現更佳。,本研究不是沒有局限的。唯研究結果為現時在種子促進中心方面的探討仍稀少的文獻提供了貢獻，亦為種子促進中心的股東、投資者及企業家提供了管理方面的提示。,與表現指數相關的研究結果對投資者尤為有用。他們主要的關注是投資因素的回報率，進行轉讓所需的時間及籌集投資總額。另一主要問題是種子促進中心作為就業苗床所扮演的角色。乍看之下，如考慮到這些公司短暫的歷史，無論整體的就業數量、或是以每間公司計算的就業數量都看似微小。種子促進中心在製造新工作方面的影響是難以量度的。這是因為新工作的產生通常出現在租戶公司發展的進一步階段內, 這就是所謂放大過程。但目前誕生的新公司的數目另人注目。而且, 以就業方面來說，效果實在是相當不錯的。我們的研究結果也為企業家、風險投資者及政策制定者提供重要的暗示。對企業家而言，我們的研究結果為他們就促進中心方案應持甚麼期望提供了啟示。,對政策制定者及未來的促進中心始創人而言，我們的研究結果支持文獻所說：促進中心、與最強大的企業樞紐比較之下，即使是在細小的企業生態系統裏，可以是有效的企業介入 (哈倫等人,2017)(Hallen et al., 2017) 。,種子促進中心是一個頗為近期才出現的現象。這現象在全球興盛起來，特別是在發達國家。因此，種子促進中心被認為是可為任何一個企業生態系統帶來前景的主要媒介。唯至今仍未有分析這新興工具的影響及表現的研究。這正正就是本研究的主要目的，就是首度根據一個數據庫，為種子促進中心的影響及前景提供一個適當和探索性的研究。

Bank performance variability and strands of inflationary conditions

Abstract: This study seeks to examine the extent to which strands of inflationary related conditions (inflation expectations, inflation uncertainty and realized inflation); macroeconomic uncertainty and the likelihood of recessionary conditions influence performance indicators in the US banking sector over a specified time period.,The study adopts seemingly unrelated regression model (SUR) advanced by Zellner (1962) in its examination of how specific strands of inflationary conditions, and other adverse macroeconomic conditions influence performance dynamics in the US banking sector.,Empirical evidence suggest that among various adverse macroeconomic conditions examined, inflation expectations and macroeconomic uncertainty tend to have significant constraining impact on key performance indicators in the US banking sector than other conditions examined. Comparatively, this study finds that inflation expectations and macroeconomic uncertainty tend to have much more constraining impact on return on equity, than on return on assets in the US banking sector. Results further suggest that among the three bank performance indicators examined, net interest margin is the least vulnerable bank performance indicator to various adverse macroeconomic conditions examined in the study.,Apart from the various empirical results noted above, this study's findings are projected to help inform strategic planning decisions among institutions in the banking sector. The various findings could, for instance, inform policies and operational strategies geared toward reducing vulnerability associated with specific performance indicators such as return on equity. This reduction could be achieved by critically examining how the various performance indicators react to individual adverse macroeconomic conditions examined in this study. The process could ultimately help in developing tailored measures/procedures aimed at reducing how susceptible key performance indicators are to the various adverse macroeconomic conditions. This study's findings could also provide the platform for more adaptive policies aimed at minimizing the effects of noted macroeconomic conditions on operational efficiency in the banking sector.,The uniqueness of this study, compared to related ones found in the literature, stems from its treatment of three variant of related strands of macroeconomic condition (different variant of inflationary conditions) in the same framework in its empirical analysis.,本研究旨在探討與通貨膨脹有關的狀況的組成部分(通脹預期 、通脹不確定性及體現了的通脹), 宏觀經濟不確定性及經濟衰退狀況的可能性、在一段特定時間內對美國銀行業的表現指數有何種程度的影響。,研究採用塞爾納 (Zellner) (1962) 提出的看似無關迴歸模型 (SUR)，去探討通脹狀況的特定組成部分及其它不利的宏觀經濟狀況如何影響美國銀行業內的績效動態。,實證證據暗示在被研究的各個不利宏觀經濟狀況中，通脹預期及宏觀經濟不確定性，對美國銀行業內的主要業績指標的約束影響, 與其它被探討的狀況相比，往往會較重大。相對地、本研究結果顯示通脹預期及宏觀經濟不確定性，對美國銀行業資本回報率的約束影響、往往遠多於資產收益率。研究結果進一步顯示，在被探討的三個銀行業績指標中，就本研究所探討的各個不利的宏觀經濟狀況而言，淨息差是脆弱性最小的銀行業績指標。,除了上述各實證結果外，本研究結果預期會給銀行業內機構間作戰略規劃的決定時提供資料，譬如，各項研究結果或可在制定旨在減少與特定業績指標如資本回報率相聯繫的脆弱性的政策和經營策略時提供資料。這脆弱性的減少，是透過嚴謹地研究各個業績指標，如何對在本研究中被探討的個別不利宏觀經濟狀況作出反應而達致的。這程序或許最終會幫助建立一個以減少各個不利宏觀經濟狀況對主要業績指標的影響為目的的量身定制措施／程序。本研究的結果，或許亦可為更多旨在減弱眾所周知的宏觀經濟狀況對銀行業運營效率的影響的適應性政策提供平台。,與文獻中可見的相關研究比較，本研究的獨特性源於其實證分析，是涉及在同一個構架內處理宏觀經濟狀況相互有關的組成部分的三個變體 (通脹狀況的不同變體) 。

Impact of the perception of performance appraisal practices on individual innovative behavior

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of employees’ perception of performance appraisal (PA) practices on innovative behavior (IB). The authors also propose to analyze consistency, a dimension of Human Resource Management (HRM) system strength, as a moderating variable in the aforementioned relationship.,A quantitative study was conducted, using a sample of 166 employees carrying out highly qualified, intensive knowledge jobs in four industrial companies in the Valencian region of Spain. The hypotheses were tested by applying the Smart-PLS 3.2 software.,The findings confirmed that in a context of professional and qualified work, PA practices have a direct and positive effect on IB. However, the results obtained did not enable us to affirm that employee perceptions of the consistency of the HR system moderated the relationship between PA and IB.,The paper’s originality lies in including the role of consistency, a dimension of HRM system strength, in the analyzed relationship. When employees believe that PA achieves the goals for which this practice was designed, and that this appraisal follows a clear strategic direction over time, they perceive that the assessment system is not arbitrary, i.e., that this HR practice is being applied consistently. Consequently, the present work shows the relevant role of the perception of consistent PA when the firm wants to encourage IB. This fact opens up the field to study how to define and implement control mechanisms that tell managers whether there is a fit between employees’ perceptions and the intentionality of the HRP these managers have defined.,本研究旨在分析僱員對工作表現評核實務的看法，如何影響其創新行為。作者們亦建議去分析人力資源管理系統的其中一個優點特質： 一致性，並且以一致性作為上述關係的一個調節變量來進行分析。,此為一項定量研究。樣本為166名在西班牙巴倫西亞地區四間工業公司內從事高質素及知識密度高的工作的僱員。各項假設已應用了Smart-PLS 3.2 軟件進行了測試。,研究結果確認了在專業及合資格工作的環境下，工作表現評核實務對創新行為會起直接及積極的影響。唯取得的研究結果不能讓我們確認僱員對人力資源系統一致性的看法、調節了表現評核與創新行為之間的關係。,本研究的原創性、在於就該關係的分析研究內，納入了人力資源管理系統強度的一個層面 -一致性 - 的角色。若僱員相信表現評核達到其設立的預期目的，並相信該評核長期跟隨著一個清晰的戰略方向，他們會覺得有關的評核制度不是隨機的；即是說，他們會覺得該人力資源實務是一貫地應用的。因此，本研究明確顯示了如公司欲鼓勵創新行為，僱員覺得表現評核有一致性這個觀感是有其相關角色的。這項事實、開啟了研究如何界定及執行機制，讓主管知悉員工的看法與他們所釐定的人力資源實務的目的是否吻合。﹞

Effect of customer satisfaction and marketing communication mix on customers’ loyalty in the ghanaian banking industry

Abstract: The study investigates the effect of customer satisfaction and marketing communication mix on customers’ loyalty in the Ghanaian banking industry. Explanatory design was used to investigate the association between the independent variables: customer satisfaction, public relations, advertising, sales promotion and the dependent variable: customers’ loyalty. Questionnaire was the main instruments for data collection from 250 customers of banks in Accra, Ghana. SPSS version 20 was employed for data analysis. The study revealed a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the Ghanaian banking industry. Also, the study showed a moderate but significant relationship between public relations and customers’ loyalty in the Ghanaian banking industry. On the bases of these findings, the study recommended that the banks should continue to strive to achieve customer satisfaction by fulfilling customers’ needs and wants since it can engender customer loyalty. This can be done by understanding all the factors affecting customer satisfaction. Also, it was recommended that public relations must not be discarded but strengthened to complement the other marketing communication mix to help encourage customer loyalty in the Ghanaian banking industry. Article visualizations:

Market structure, institutional quality and bank capital ratios: evidence from developing countries

Abstract: Purpose – This paper investigates the role of market structure and institutional quality in determining bank capital ratios in developing economies. Design/methodology/approach – The generalised methods of moment technique is used to control for auto-correlation and endogeneity in a sample of 79 publicly listed commercial banks. The study period is between 2000 and 2016. Findings – Results show that market structure (proxied with bank competition) as well as institutional quality (regulatory quality) lowers bank capital in the sampled banks. This suggests that banks operating in less competitive markets with good regulatory quality do not need to engage in excessive risk-taking activities that would necessitate holding increased level of capital. Furthermore, the interaction of competition and regulatory quality reinforces the main findings, suggesting the importance of the two variables in determining bank capital ratio. Research limitations/implications – Research has limitation in that the study investigated publicly listed commercial banks, the findings may not be applicable to non-listed banks. Practical implications – Taking into cognisance the developing nature of the banking system in Africa, the findings from this study imply that the maintenance of an improved regulatory quality in an environment where healthy competition exists would encourage banks to hold capital ratios appropriate for their level of banking activities, that is, the banks would not engage in excessive risk-taking activities. Originality/value –This is one of the first papers that examine the effect of market structure and institutional quality on bank capital ratios in developing countries that have bank-based financial systems.

Factors influencing enterprise performance of small and medium size enterprises (smes) in malaysia

Abstract: In this research, SME business owners, top management, shareholders and financial managers are recommended and additionally implicit that they have direct involvement in the financial decision making of the respective enterprise, specifically in selecting debt or equity financing options. The design of the sampling technique is depicted trailed by the discussion of research instrument development. The sample size of a total of 210 respondents who met the predefined characteristics to contribute the insightful information related to corporate finance among SMEs in Malaysia. The findings revealed that a positive relationship exists between productivity and enterprise performance, as well as between enterprise size and enterprise performance. Likewise, there is a positive relationship between enterprise expansion and enterprise performance, as well as enterprise age and enterprise performance. Finally, a positive relationship has been identified between asset tangibility and enterprise performance. This study implies a new research framework consists of enterprise productivity, enterprise age and growth, working capital, enterprise size and asset tangibility as the determinant of capital structure decisions towards enterprise performance. JEL: L10, L20, P12, D24 Article visualizations:

Manager’s leadership styles and job performance of company rank and file employees

Abstract: In company management, several leadership styles are inherent and utilised by a manager or a leader. This study assessed the leadership styles of a manufacturing company manager and how the styles of leadership influence rank and file employees’ performance. In particular, it evaluated the manager’s leadership styles as affirmed by the rank and file employees, and how these leadership styles influence the performance of said employees from the viewpoint of work quality, work quantity, job innovativeness, customer service and team spirit. The study was carried out through a descriptive survey research design utilising a standardised survey questionnaire. Findings revealed that the branch Manager highly utilised transactional and transformational leadership styles in managing the manufacturing company. The Laissez-faire leadership style was only moderately utilised while the autocratic leadership was the least utilised style also at the moderate level. These utilised leadership styles manifested strong influence on the performance and productivity of rank and file employees of the manufacturing company under study. Accordingly, the employees exhibited outstanding performance towards the delivery of their works. It is concluded that managing the human capital of any company elicits full utilisation of good leadership styles supportive to the attainment of the company’s set goals and objectives and employees’ desired outputs and productivity. The company under study should continuously utilise and sustain the use of transactional and transformational leadership styles to keep employees’ productive performance, although there is always room for improvement. Other related studies may be pursued considering other variables or attributes of leadership styles not covered in this study. Article visualizations:

Online store brand experience impacting on online brand trust and online repurchase intention: the moderating role of online brand attachment

Abstract: The scope of this research is to examine the impact of online store brand experience on online brand trust and online repurchase intention. Additionally, the study tests whether online brand attachment moderates these influences. Data was gathered in two cites in Pakistan and path relationships in the theoretical model were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The study results confirm that online brand attachment and online brand experience have a direct relationship with online brand trust and online repurchase intention. Conclusively, online brand attachment significantly moderates the two relationships between a) online brand experiences and online brand trust and b) online brand experiences and online repurchase intention. The study provides insights for online retail store managers to focus on improving the online experience for its customers in order to promote online brand trust and online repurchase intentions. JEL : C12; L81; M31 Article visualizations:

Building reputation through sustainable supplier selection: the case of an emerging economy

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to examine the drivers of sustainable supplier selection (SSS) and investigate the extent to which it is associated with a buyer's financial performance within an emerging economy context.,The data were collected from 235 supply chain and procurement professionals in Thailand. The structural relationship was tested using partial least squares based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and PROCESS tool.,Based on the empirical findings, firms that pursue sustainability initiatives during supplier selection process enjoy better financial performance than their competitors. The analysis suggests six hypothetical paths explain SSS. Suppliers' human rights and safety focus are the most powerful determinants of SSS. Significantly, positive support was found for the SSS and buyers' financial performance relationship. Finally, there is a significant moderating effect of resource investment on sustainability efforts.,Data for the study were collected from a single industry, so the findings are indicative but not representative of all supply chains. Due to this limitation, the findings cannot be generalized across other countries and industries. This study is a starting point in understanding the role of SSS in creating a sustainable supply chain. Future research may develop a comprehensive understanding of the nature and magnitude of the impact of SSS on sustainable supply chains.,This paper contributes toward an understanding of the determinants of SSS and its consequences for sustainable supply chains.,本研究旨在探究選擇可持續供應商的驅動因素，及探討在新興經濟的環境下選擇可持續供應商與買方的財務表現之間有多大的關係。,數據取自235名在泰國的供應鏈及採購專業人士。研究人員使用基於偏最小二乘為基礎的結構方程模型 (PLS-SEM) 及流程 (PROCESS) 工具 測試了結構的關係。,基於實證結果，在選擇供應商的程序中、奉行持續性措施的公司的財務表現會較其對手更好。分析顯示有六個假設性的途徑可闡釋可持續供應商的選擇。供應商的人權及以安全為焦點是選擇可持續供應商的最有力的決定因素。明顯地、選擇可持續供應商及買方財務表現之間的關係已找到支持的證據。最後，資源的投資對可持續性方面的努力產生重大的調節效果。,由於用來研究的數據取自單一行業，故研究結果是指示性的、而非代表所有供應鏈。因為這個局限，所以研究結果不能概括其它國家或行業。唯本研究就了解選擇可持續供應商在創造一個可持續的供應鏈上所扮演的角色方面踏出了第一步。未來的研究或會就選擇可持續供應商對可持續供應鏈予以何種影響及多大的影響提供更全面的解說。

Is it my fault and how will I react? A phenomenology of perceived causes and consequences of workplace ostracism

Abstract: Purpose – This exploratory inquiry sheds light on the nature of victim (i.e. provocative and passive) and specific work context in shaping the perceived causes and outcomes of felt workplace ostracism in teaching faculty of Pakistani higher educational institutions (HEIs) based on target-centric victimization framework. Design/methodology/approach – This phenomenological research is based on data gathered from 30 ostracized teaching faculty members working in Pakistani public and private HEIs through in-depth semistructured interviews. The interviews were tape-recorded, and transcription was entered in NVivo 12 Plus software to conduct thematic analysis. Findings – This study found that provocative and submissive victim status, as well as the specific contextual factors in Pakistani HEIs (i.e. negative competition, cronyism, egoism and poor interpersonal relationships), is responsible for fostering workplace ostracism and yielding unique outcomes in each case. Originality/value – This study has taken the scantly used target-centric victimization framework to distinguish the causes and consequences of workplace ostracism based on the nature of victim and work context in Pakistani HEIs .

Organizational toughness facing new economic crisis

Abstract: Organizations are increasingly facing great changes in their external environment, like is the case of current pandemic. Theoretical reflection and scientific literature review led us to develop a new concept – organizational toughness - and a new model that may help explaining the variables underlying an effective response to environmental changes, contributing to the organization's survival. This model also includes the concepts of organizational plasticity and organizational strength as crucial factors to face new market threats and opportunities. Other second order latent variables – staff preparation and structure adapted to change – and manifest variables, such as the quality level of competencies, motivation, flexibility, strategic planning processes, leadership behaviours, organizational learning market oriented, the amount of resources holt by an organization, and external access to these resources are also presented, as well as clues for future research. This paper aims at contributing to the development of strategic management theory in relation to market changes even when not expected. JEL: D20; D23; M11 Article visualizations:

Assessment of the practices of direct marketing tools on customer awareness and business performance: a case of konka group company ltd.

Abstract: The nerve centre of this study is to investigate the impact of the direct marketing tools on customer awareness and business performance. This is because, there is a lack of enough research on the impact of promotional tools mainly the direct marketing ones in creating awareness and growth of the business. The specific objectives of this study are to find out the direct marketing tools used by Konka Group Company Ltd. towards its customers’ awareness and business performance, to evaluate the impact of direct marketing tools used by Konka Group Company Ltd. on its customers’ awareness and business performance and to assess the challenges encountered by Konka Group Company Ltd. in its direct marketing activities. The findings are expected to play an important role on different parties including researchers in acquiring practical skills out of the theory learnt at school, to Konka Group Company Ltd. in exploring how customers appreciate their promotional tools and knowing the gaps which needs to be addressed. It is expected to help future researchers who want to carry out the study in the similar field. The study relies on existing literature in the area of marketing mainly in relationship marketing. The study was conducted at the shops of Konka Group Company Ltd. within Kigali City centre. The research design was descriptive in nature. The study was a census survey and 60 respondents participated in this research. Data were collected using the questionnaire and interview schedules. Data from 60 respondents were analysed using descriptive statistics, presented in tables with percentage and frequency and processed with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings show that the direct response marketing is the mostly used tool by Konka Group Company Ltd., as shown by 98.3% of the respondents. The findings also indicate that the direct marketing tools used by Konka Group Company Ltd. improve its customers awareness and business performance through encouraging the repeated purchases and enhancing the sales volume as revealed by 63.3% and 71.7% of the respondents respectively. However, the company faces the problems including the lack of proper follow up of e-mails sent to the customers, lack of attention of customers on the short messages received from Konka Group Company Ltd. and stiff competition. It is recommended to the management of Konka Group Company Ltd. to make a proper follow up on messages sent to customers and to devise the different competitive strategies. The customers are advised not to ignore all short messages addressed to them before reading as they may be beneficial. JEL: M10; M31; M37 Article visualizations:

Conflicts on team trust and team performance at the university scientific research teams in jiangsu province, china: structural equation modeling approach

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to assess the conflicts on team trust and team performance at the university scientific research teams in Jiangsu Province, China utilizing structural equation modeling approach. This report focuses on the scientific education of university scientific research teams in Jiangsu Province, China. Team Success has been described as one of the major concerns. The final sample size was set at 140. This research contributes to the current assemblage of information in the understanding of Team Success, since this is the primary study in the arrangement of such variables. As it has been, this study seeks to broaden understanding of the links between task and relationship conflict, learning ability, information accessibility, process conflict, team confidence, workforce optimization and team performance in the University Scientific Research Teams of Jiangsu Province, China In the light of past studies, a research show has been produced from which speculation has been detailed. As a rule, the model has been provided with experimental support, which strengthens our hypothetical understanding. Research by and wide has made commitments as follows. Article visualizations:

Causative effects of motivation to transfer learning among relational dyads: the test of a model

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to validate multiplicative cycle that exists between the job readiness and satisfaction model explored by Matthews et al (2018), the satisfaction and performance paradigmatic nuances analyzed by Judge et al (2001) and Gu and Chi (2009), in addition to the expectancy model theorized by Vroom (1964) The motivation to transfer learning serves as a conveyable variable transmitted within a learning continuum that sustains cyclical outputs,An archetype to explore the connection between the three hypothesized theories is created through a neural network program Exploring this connection develops deeper understandings of the derivatives of employee motivation as it pertains to its effect on readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyads A detailed analysis of the literature leads to the hypothesis that the motivation to transfer learning creates a multiplicative effect among hypothesized relationships,The neural network program scaffolds the proposed general belief that positive effects of transfer motives cause a cyclical effect that continues to perpetuate among hypothesized dyads Conversely, if this motivation decreases or ceases among one or more dyads, the cyclical effect will retract and, eventually stop,Based on the neurologic outcome, one central theme emerged: managers must offer opportunities to acquire knowledge through assistive mechanisms (ie training) by providing external stability through controlled channels that activates the motivation to transfer learning into new opportunities The transference of this knowledge produces reconstructive growth opportunities through continuous learning thus increasing performance,本研究的目的、除了驗證弗魯姆 (Vroom) (1964) 建立的「期望模型」理論外，也去驗證存在於工作準備就緒與馬修斯等人 (Matthews et al) (2018) 所探索的滿足感模型之間的倍增週期，及質治等人 (Judge et al) (2001) 和古與池 (Gu & Chi) (2009) 所分析的滿足感及表現之範式細微差別。學習轉移的動機作為一個被傳送至學習漸變體內的可輸送變量而運作，而這個學習漸變體是會維持週期性的輸出的。,透過神經網絡程序，創造一個用以探索這三個假設性理論之間的關係的原型。探究這些關係，會使我們更能深入了解僱員動機的衍生品，因這涉及僱員動機對準備就緒、滿足感、表現及功績二元體的影響。仔細分析文獻帶出了一個假設，就是: 學習轉移的動機會在各假設的關係裏創造一個倍增的效果。,這個神經網絡程序續步闡釋了一個被倡議的普遍觀念，那就是轉移動機的正面影響會帶來一個在假設性的二元體中會繼續持續下去的週期性效應。相反地，如果這動機在一個或多個二元體中減弱或停止，這週期性效應將會撤回及最終停止。,基於神經病學的結果，一個核心主題浮現了， 就是：管理人員必須提供透過輔助機制 (就是說：培訓) 而獲取知識的機會。方法是給會引發把學習轉為新機會的動機之受控渠道、提供外在穩定性。這知識的轉移，透過不斷學習而創造重建的成長，表現因而得以提升。

Leaders’ behaviour and situational factors on the organizational performance at abu dhabi national oil company (adnoc)

Abstract: In both public and private businesses, to capacity building and sustenance of competitive advantage, the necessity of effective leadership has remained critical. Yet, leadership effectiveness has continued to be a multi-dimensional construct, and not many efforts have been done to conceptualise models in this level. In view of the case of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), to attain a more reliable model that is suitable for modern organisations, the major objective of the current study was to update and empirically support the traditional Contingency Model of Leadership Effectiveness. Leader characteristics and hierarchy structure are not suitable factors of leadership behaviour in the organisation. To validate the Contingency Model of Leadership Effectiveness through the assistance of data collected in the current study, a final effort was made. Data validates the traditional model of leadership to a large degree; this is particularly factual for task-oriented leadership behaviour as contrasting to relationship-oriented leadership behaviour. Future researchers should consider activity-based constructs for the measurement of variables to find more significant and validate critical relationships in the model. Furthermore, the ADNOC and other corporations are recommended in the region stretch equal attention to male and female employees and leaders. Where leader-subordinate relationships are critical for complete organisational accomplishment, females would predominantly endeavour in positions. JEL : L20; L22; L72 Article visualizations:

Does teaching experience moderate team structure and optimize the faculty? empirical evidence from guizhou university in china

Abstract: Establishing a well-structured faculty is not only the focus of the construction of college faculty but also the only way for the survival and development of the university. The current research is based on quantitative research methods through a measurement model and tries to gain further understanding. After that, the primary data required is collected according to the survey strategy by providing self-administered questionnaires and interviews. Full-time lecturers who teach at Guizhou University in China were selected as the sampling frame for this study. Using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), moderating effects were observed to test the hypotheses. The results indicate that there are moderating effects of lecturers’ teaching experience on team structure towards optimizing the faculty. Optimizing the structure of the faculty of Guizhou University not only requires Guizhou University to introduce policies that are conducive to the construction of faculty but also requires the government to give team structure support to the faculty of the university. Finally, this research brings some implications to the policymakers and regulators as well. JEL: I20, I23, J24 Article visualizations:

The influence of shopping motivation on fashion retailers, with mediating role of fashion innovativeness and fashion consciousness

Abstract: Adjusting and stimulating the fashion purchases within fashion stores the challenging situation of market strength to discover the new ways in fashion industry for introducing the new products. The study is based on four determinants of shopping motivation which are Sexual Attraction, Shopping for Recreation, Recognition Enhancement, Aesthetic Expression. Fashion consciousness and fashion innovativeness have strategic position in this challenge. In the setting of fashion retailing this study inspects how fashion consciousness and fashion innovativeness relates with factors of shopping motivation and actual fashion purchasing. It also examines the construct of shopping motivation on the association among fashion innovativeness, fashion consciousness and fashion purchases. The study executed through a consumer survey, data were obtained and analyzed using structural equation modelling. The consequences show that shopping motivation is positively affected by fashion innovativeness and fashion consciousness, and positively influences fashion purchase intention of customers. The direct link between shopping motivation and fashion purchase intention shows insignificant result. By using the concept of fashion innovativeness and fashion consciousness this study delivers recommendations for fashion retailers on increasing fashion purchases in their stores. JEL : L80; L81 Article visualizations:

Strategic risk management towards information technology project environment: an empirical study in the united arab emirates (uae)

Abstract: The strategic risk management of IT projects towards a precise definition of the role of top management has been investigated and conceptualized in this research. The study contributes to the body of knowledge in the area of strategic management in IT projects as there is a shortage of literatures in the area. The study shapes on known theories towards the formation of unknown theories which can serve as grounds for future researches in the area of strategic management of IT projects. The population of the research includes all IT professionals and senior management officials of institutions in UAE with a dedicated IT department and the sample size was determined as 384 respondents, and finally collected 371 altogether. Through a careful analysis of findings, results revealed significant and positive predictive effects of both strategic planning processes and strategic risk integration on IT project environment. JEL : G30; G32 Article visualizations:

Solvency controlling and return on asset of industrial organizations in nigeria

Abstract: The study focused on solvency controlling and return on asset of industrial organizations in Nigeria. The purpose was to assess how credit management influence return on asset of the organizations that were considered. Data were collected from published financial reports of these organizations. Data collected were analyzed using multiple regression model. Results of the analysis revealed that solvency controlling did not affect return on asset significantly; and insolvents’ turnover has insignificant though positive effect on return on asset of the studied organizations. Based on the findings, the major recommendation was that of industrial organizations in Nigeria should institute active and proficient credit policy that can take into consideration credit worthiness of clienteles which would in turn influence their return on asset. JEL : L10; L16; G10 Article visualizations:

External environment transformation of Ukraine's tourist enterprises during the crisis

Abstract: Purpose – to identify trends in Ukraine's tourism enterprises' external environment to increase their competitiveness and stability in the relevant industry market. Design/Method/Approach of the research. Theoretical generalization, method of abstraction, expert assessments, PEST-analysis, factor analysis, graphical method. Findings. The research studies the changes in the external environment of tourist enterprises during the pandemic crisis. The critical factors of such enterprises' external environment are revealed based on considering their importance and the influence direction on the competitiveness of tourist business units. The paper covers the most significant negative and positive trends of changes in Ukraine's tourist enterprises' external environment. The authors provided recommendations for strategic planning of tourist business units' competitiveness. Practical implications. The research results allow identifying areas for increasing the competitiveness of national tourism enterprises and effectively adapting to the external environment's transformations during the crisis in the globalized social and economic space. Originality/Value. Based on the expert assessment, the authors proposed an expanded factors list of the external environment of national tourism enterprises, which, in contrast to the existing ones, consider the crisis's negative consequences. PEST-analysis clusters of environmental factors allowed to identify with a significant positive or negative impact on the competitiveness of tourism enterprises. Research limitations/Future research. The research results provide a basis for further study of the external macro- and micro-environment of tourism enterprises at the local, regional, and national levels. And for element-by-element SWOT-analysis of tourism enterprises during the pandemic crisis. Paper type – theoretical.

The impact of divestitures on shareholder wealth – The DACH case

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to study the impact of divestitures on shareholder wealth. This study covers selloffs of publicly traded companies in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH region) during the period 2002–2018. It aims to understand the overall effect of selloffs on shareholder wealth as well as the impact of important influencing factors. Design/methodology/approach – This study is part of capital market studies which investigate shareholder wealth effects (abnormal returns) using event study methodology. To determine the significance of abnormal returns, a standardized cross-sectional test as suggested by Boehmer et al. (1991) was applied. The sample consists of 393 selloffs of publicly traded companies with a deal value of at least EUR 10m. Findings – The findings confirm the overall positive impact of selloffs on shareholder wealth. The average abnormal return on the announcement day of the sample companies amounts to 1.33%. The type of buyer, the relative size of the transaction as well as the financial situation of the seller in particular seem to influence abnormal returns positively. Originality/value –This study investigates shareholder wealth creation through selloffs in the DACH region, a largely neglected region in divestiture research, but now very relevant due to increasing pressure of active foreign investors. Sophisticated statistical methods were used to generate robust findings, which are in line with the results of similar studies for the US and the UK.

Determinants of knowledge management strategies on organizational performance in libyan transportation industry

Abstract: The aim of this study is to identify the determinants of knowledge management strategies in the Libyan transportation industry for organizational performance. This study began to propose the research method through an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), after proposing a testable conceptual framework, where the items of further research can have some light to move forward. For this analysis, the sample size was 529 and simple random sampling was employed. The results of this research indicate that the main aspects of organizational performance in the Libyan Transportation Industry are the knowledge management system, knowledge management process, knowledge management strategy, organizational performance. Through proposing an empirically validated research model that could be an important implementation tool for the success of the performance of the Transportation Industry, this research has added to established knowledge. JEL: L10; L25; L91 Article visualizations:

The effect of individual characteristics and destination image on word of mouth through visitor satisfaction at pemandian alam gantang rani tourism objects in sibolangit subdistrict, indonesia

Abstract: The advancement of current technological requires each sector to follow market developments especially in the tourism industry. Local tourism objects have emerged to the surface and are demanded to be able to adjust their services to the desires and needs of visitors who are expected to be able to increase visitor satisfaction and a positive image of a tourist attraction and attract potential new tourists to visit. The purpose of this study was to look at the effect of individual characteristics and destination image on word of mouth through visitor satisfaction at the Pemandian Alam Gantang Rani Sembahe in Sibolangit sub-district. This type of research is associative with quantitative methods. The population of the study was visitors who used the services of the Pemandian Alam Gantang Rani in the designated research time. However, by using a predetermined formula, a total sample of 100 respondents was obtained. The sampling technique used in this study is nonprobability sampling with accidental sampling type. Data collection techniques used questionnaires and interviews. The results of the first sub structure test in this study shows that individual characteristics have a positive and significant effect on visitor satisfaction. Destination image has a positive and significant effect on visitor satisfaction. The results of the second sub-structure test show that individual characteristics have no positive and significant influence on word of mouth. Destination image has a positive and significant effect on word of mouth. Visitor satisfaction has a positive and significant impact on word of mouth. Furthermore, visitor satisfaction is able to mediate between individual characteristic variables with word of mouth. The last hypothesis shows that the visitor satisfaction variable is not able to mediate between destination image variables and word of mouth. Based on the results of this study, the Pemandian Alam Gantang Rani Sembahe has the potential to be the preeminent tourist attraction in the Sibolangit Region because it is able to follow trends and continue to innovate in accordance with the development of the situation. JEL : L80; L83; L89 Article visualizations: