Economic Environment Research Articles

Flour blending can mitigate food insecurity and economic stress

Cereal flour blending can reduce food insecurity risks, as well as contribute to economic and nutrition goals. Yet, the potential for blending has not been realized, and new products have not become scalable commercial propositions. Numerous experiments have shown the potential to produce acceptable foods derived from blended flours of diverse crops including wheat. An important question is whether the incentives, capacities and needs of farmers, processors and consumers have been considered. We argue that technical solutions must be developed within a specific agroecological, commercial, economic, and political environment. Innovations must address the clearly defined objectives of a wheat flour blending policy, if the potential benefits of blending for addressing food insecurity and economic stress are to be achieved.

Research on Disposal of Non-Performing Assets of Listed Companies

China's economic development is affected by adverse factors such as cyclical and structural adjustment of the domestic economy, but also by the sudden impact of the international political and economic environment, and the complex economic environment at home and abroad has greatly challenged the development of Chinese enterprises. The problem of non-performing assets is a prominent problem facing the high-quality development of China's economy. It requires both enterprises to regulate their own risks and asset management companies to properly and reasonably dispose of non-performing assets to prevent these assets from having an impact on systemic risks and then affecting other economies. Solving the problem of non-performing assets in a reasonable way can effectively deal with the non-performing assets, and then promote and prevent the further spread of the non-performing assets crisis of enterprises. This paper analyzes that the asset disposal mode of "stock plus bond" provides a reference for other NPL disposal methods, and helps other enterprises to dispose NPL efficiently. When dealing with non-performing assets, there are risks from debtors and creditors. To prevent and address these problems, detailed and precise asset-liability analysis, a well-developed restructuring plan, and enhanced collaboration between departments are required." The "equity plus bond" model combines the centralized disposal method of non-performing assets, which can effectively deal with these non-performing assets, better reduce risks and improve operations.

Expected credit loss modeling

This article proposes a method for modeling the probability of default, describes the statistical evaluation of the model, and presents a model of the software implementation algorithm. The algorithm automatically selects from the group of regression models where the models are both linear regression and various modifications of semi-logarithmic models and lag models for macro factors Xi,t,Xi,t-1, ...,Xi,t-TStatistical analysis is carried out using the coefficient of determination R-squared, p-value, VIF (variance inflation factor).The relevance of this topic is determined by the need for banking organizations to comply with international standards, such as International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS 9) and the Agreement on Banking Supervision and Capital (Basel 3). These standards define credit risk assessment requirements and capital requirements. Adherence to these standards is important not only for ensuring the stability and reliability of the financial system, but also for maintaining the trust of clients and investors. Compliance with international standards also makes banks competitive in the global market and promotes investment inflows and the development of the financial sector.IFRS 9 can be presented in various mathematical models. The article proposes an approach to choosing the appropriate model for forecasting the probability of default. The described model selection method allows banks to choose the optimal default forecast assessment model within the framework of the given standard. This contributes to a more accurate and reliable assessment of credit risk, in accordance with regulatory requirements, which will provide banks with the means for better forecasting and management of financial resources, as well as risk reduction.The model selection methodology saves a significant amount of time and resources, since the search for the optimal model occurs automatically. This allows us to react more quickly to changes in the economic environment, improve decision-making strategies and manage credit risks, which is of great importance for financial institutions in a competitive environment.There is currently a war going on in Ukraine, and forecasting using current methods becomes a difficult task due to unpredictable stressful situations for the economy. In such conditions, standard models may not be sufficiently adapted to account for increased risk and volatility. The proposed approach allows finding more conservative forecasting models that can be useful in unstable periods and war.

Determinants of bank efficiency in developed (G7) and developing (E7) countries: role of regulatory and economic environment

Determinants of bank efficiency in developed (G7) and developing (E7) countries: role of regulatory and economic environment

Research on The Spatial Heterogeneity of National Physical and Mental Health in China Based on Numerical Simulation

Studying the spatial interactions between socio-economic and natural (SEN) factors and physical health (PF) can help improve national physical and mental health and develop health policies. In order to deeply analyze the relationship between social and economic environment, sports activities, and national physical and mental health, and improve the level of national physical and mental health, this study used mathematical numerical analysis methods using MATLAB and ArcGIS software to determine the determining factors of PF differences in China. The reported National Fitness Composite Index (NFCI) in China was extracted from the National Physical and Mental Health Fitness Monitoring Bulletin in 2015. The SEN factors were gathered from the China Statistical Yearbook in 2015. The OLS model and GWR model were then utilized to investigate the SEN factors of the NFCI. We found that the NFCI of each province had a strong relationship with the natural environment. The NFCI of the eastern coastal regions was higher but also similar to that of the central and western regions. It was also found that the impact of the natural environment on national physical and mental health fitness was greater than that of social and economic factors. Temperature and hours of sunshine were major environmental factors. Annual hours of sunshine (ANNsun, hours), health care expenditure (HEAexpe, Chinese yuan), annual temperature (ANNtem, °C), road distance (ROAdis, kilometers) and annual rainfall (ANNrai, millimeters)are socioeconomic and natural (SEN) determinants of factors and physical fitness (PF). We should increase physical exercise, change our concepts of health, develop a healthy lifestyle and improve our physical fitness in accordance with the national fitness strategy. The regression coefficients obtained by the GWR model show significant differences, indicating that the degree of influence of social, economic, and natural factors on national physical fitness varies significantly with geographical regions..

Family socioeconomic status and adolescent substance use: The role of parent-adolescent brain similarity and parental monitoring.

Greater neural similarity between parents and adolescents may reduce adolescent substance use. Among 70 parent-adolescent dyads, we tested a longitudinal path model in which family economic environment is related to adolescent substance use, directly and indirectly through parent-adolescent neural similarity and parental monitoring. Neural similarity was measured as parent-adolescent pattern similarity in functional brain connectivity at Time 1. Parents reported socioeconomic status and parental monitoring at Time 1. Adolescents reported parental monitoring at Time 1 and substance use at Time 2. Higher family socioeconomic status was associated with greater neural similarity. Greater neural similarity was associated with lower adolescent substance use, mediated through greater adolescent-perceived parental monitoring. Parent-adolescent neural similarity may attenuate adolescent substance use by bolstering parental monitoring. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Economic policy uncertainty, risk perception and stock price crash risk: Evidence from China

This paper investigates the moderating role of the macroeconomic environment in the crash risk-policy uncertainty sensitivity. We find that managers have lower risk perception and crash risk is less sensitive to policy uncertainty during periods of economic expansion. Managers’ risk perception is the critical channel through which the macroeconomic environment affects the relationship between crash risk and policy uncertainty. Consequently, when firms’ managers have an accurate understanding of the future economic environment, the moderating effect of economic growth is lower. This manifests in the weaker moderating effect of economic growth for SOEs and firms with stronger managerial ability, lower managerial ownership, and high media attention, which further supports the risk perception channel.

The Impact of Different Types of Government Public Service on Economic Development

This paper summarizes the interaction between government and economy and deeply discusses the relationship between government public service and economic development at the quantitative level. In the current economic environment, how to classify public services effectively and put this classification into the process of government policymaking is further discussed. Based on the existing literature, this paper divides the types of public service into three categories: Developmental Public Service, Development-oriented Public Service, and Society-developing Public Service. Based on the discussion of government expenditure and economic development in the existing literature, this paper further extends the significant effect of different types of public services on economic development. In addition, on the basis of data analysis, this paper also explores the regulating role of social variables between government and economic development. All in all, this paper explores the different categories of public services and economic development and finds that the social environment plays an indispensable role in the process of government policymaking.

Globalization of Automobile Supply Chain: A Case Study Based on BYD’s Globalization strategy

With the development of global trade and the acceleration of economic globalization, it has become normal for automobile manufacturers to expand their production and sales to transnational markets. BYD is famous for its innovation in hybrid and pure electric vehicles. The company’s example provides a useful reference for studying the application and landing of new energy vehicle technology on a global scale. Through the analysis of BYD case, we can understand the role and influence of new energy technology in the globalization of automobile supply chain, which is of positive significance to promoting sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions. The globalization of automobile supply chain not only involves market demand and technological innovation, but also is influenced by national and regional economic development and policy support. Through the case study of BYD, we can analyze the role of national policies and economic environment in the globalization of automobile supply chain, and provide reference for formulating relevant policies and strategies.

Asymmetric Performance Evaluation Under Quantity and Price Competition with Managerial Delegation

Abstract In this paper, we consider asymmetric performance evaluation contracts under different product market configurations with managerial delegation and specify the optimal decision-making by the social and relative performance evaluation firms. We present a reversal result on the owner’s choice of the social performance and relative performance evaluation contract as the product market competition type changes from quantity to price competition. Surprisingly, results indicate that the consumer surplus increases as the degree of product substitution increases under quantity competition in a specific economic environment. A firm that considers social performance evaluation produces less, charges a higher price, and earns a lower profit than a firm that uses relative performance evaluation. We also endogenize the choice of performance evaluation systems. While relative performance emerges as the endogenous choice under both modes of product market competition, it leads to lower consumer surplus and social welfare in comparison to an asymmetric performance evaluation system.

An Assessment of Guest Satisfaction of Service Quality in Selected 2-Star Hotels in Takoradi

In today’s economic environment, client expectations are continually increasing and both small and large hotel businesses are required to become more efficient to participate in a competitive global market. In this new reality, quality is critical for success. The main purpose of this study was to assess guest satisfaction with service quality in selected 2-star hotels in Takoradi. The objectives of the study were to find out whether guests are satisfied with services provided in the hotels, ascertain the main dimensions of service quality that lead to guest satisfaction and evaluate measures that can be put in place to help implement quality service in hotels. This study followed a non-experimental research approach and specifically used a descriptive survey. The targeted populations for this study were employees, guests and managers of nine 2-star hotels in Takoradi with a sample size of ninety (90). It consisted of ten (10) respondents from each hotel, thus, four (4) operational staff (one from housekeeping, front office, restaurant and kitchen department), five (5) guests and a manager (1) from each of the selected hotels.
 Convenience and purposive sampling techniques were used for the study to select respondents and questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents. The data obtained was analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics namely frequencies, percentages, and charts with the aid of Microsoft Excel 2021. The study found out that though some aspect of service quality needs a step up, customers are satisfied with the services provided in the hotels. The study concluded that more customers become more satisfied with what they see or touch during the service.

Psychic TV: The Paranormal as Popular Culture in Japanese Television of the 1990s

NIGHT HEAD was a science fiction drama that aired on Japan’s Fuji TV between 1992 and 1993. The series arrived during a wave of interest in the paranormal, a trend that was embraced by commercial television in both dramatic programs and variety/infotainment talk shows. This boom of interest in the paranormal happened within the thriving economic and cultural environment of Japan’s Bubble Era, a period that saw a rapid expansion of television in addition to the prosperity of markets in real estate and industry. NIGHT HEAD portrays a darker vision of 90s Japan, using visual effects and moody, intense images and sounds to conjure a desperate sensibility. This article will offer an analysis of the “attractive” paranormal turn in Japan during the 1990s, using NIGHT HEAD as a case for considering the intersection of youth, visual effects, and the desire for an alternative way of understanding the world beyond rationality.

Financial stability strategies for oil companies amidst high volatility in the global oil products market

The increasing instability within the global oil sector poses a challenge for contemporary companies to devise and implement effective financial stability strategies. The aim of this study is to analyse the financial stability strategies employed by oil companies, explore alternative approaches amidst the global volatility of the oil market, and develop a methodological framework for evaluating financial strategies, utilising an alternative options matrix. The author's methodological approach is proposed: a matrix of the company's alternative financial strategies is created. In this study, data from the top 10 largest oil companies in the world for the years 2015–2019 were utilised. Exxon Mobil and CNPC exhibit the lowest level of financial stability. A sustainable growth strategy is necessary for Aramco, Rosneft, and ADNOK. Kazmunaigas should adopt a strategy focused on ensuring financial stability in the event of adverse external conditions. For Exxon Mobil, maintaining financial stability is a relevant strategy. CNPC should consider implementing a financial stabilisation strategy contingent upon favourable market dynamics. The practical significance of the research results lies in providing specific conclusions and recommendations regarding optimal financial stability strategies for oil companies and stakeholders amidst global market volatility conditions. The analysis of the alternative financial strategies matrix may serve as a foundation for managerial decision-making aimed at ensuring company resilience in fluctuating economic environments and enhancing their competitiveness.

Mobile handling units in advanced material handling systems

To fulfil the increasing requirements of the social and economic environments, the equipment used in material handling processes have to be developed. The machines fitted exactly to certain manufacturing procedures some decades ago, cannot be found in the advanced version, they role are acted by other, earlier rarely used computer-controlled devices. The traditional method for the material handling is the using of mobile handling units, where the goods are moving on the machines, so the characteristics of the transportation are based on the parameters of the handling equipment. Suited to the new requirements, the structure and operation of the mobile handling units are changing but their application have similar conditions. There are many handling machines belonging to this category, this paper gives an overview about their most popular variations and their usability in advanced material handling systems.

Research issues of the region as an adaptive socio-economic system

Aim. To consider the issues of regional management in the modern conditions of the country’s economic development, which are characterized, on the one hand, by objective factors of the world economy development, such as dynamism, complexity, instability of the foreign economic environment, on the other hand, by the unfriendly attitude of a number of Western countries, which is expressed primarily in the application of economic sanctions to Russia.Objectives. To identify the main directions and peculiarities of the positions of various domestic and foreign authors regarding the issues of the study of the region as an adaptive socio[1]economic system; to formulate the functions and properties of the region as a system.Methods. The authors used empirical and analytical methods of research, defined the region from the position of the system approach.Results. The author’s vision of key properties of the region as a socio-economic system is presented, their description from the position of regional management is given. The existing approaches are analyzed and the peculiarities of the organizational and economic structure of management of the region as a system are defined, and the directions of its development in the conditions of unstable market environment are highlighted.Conclusions. There is an obvious need to form a new methodology of regional management on the basis of the system approach, taking into account the peculiarities of modern economic realities. The first step to this is the substantiation of the region as an open socio-economic system. The idea of expediency of further improvement of the mechanism of regional management on the basis of the principles of adaptation and self-organization is put forward.

Проблемы и перспективы реализации проектного финансирования в России в условиях нарастающих экономических санкций

Relevance: In recent years, Russia has faced a number of economic sanctions that have had a significant impact on its economy. These sanctions have restricted access to international financial markets, making it difficult to attract investment and realise projects. Project finance plays a key role in economic development, enabling companies to raise the necessary resources to realise major investment projects. However, in the context of sanctions, the effective use of this instrument is becoming a challenge. In a changing economic environment, companies and organisations need to adapt and seek new approaches to financing their projects. Researching this topic can help in finding effective solutions, as well as understanding how sanctions affect project finance and what strategies can be used to overcome these challenges. The purpose of this article is to analyse the current state of project finance in Russia and the world and to determine its prospects in the context of growing economic sanctions. Research methods: Statistical, economic and comparative analyses were used to identify trends in the global and Russian project finance market, as well as to determine the main problems and potential areas of development, The results of the article are based on the analysis of works of domestic and foreign economists and professional organisations in the field of project finance and economics in general. The results obtained can be used to identify further directions of project finance development, as well as to study the experience of work and organisation of project finance under sanctions.

An Analysis of The Economic Impact Potential of The Art Music Scene in Kosovo: Is It a Burden or An Additional Value for Society?

The art and music sector in Kosovo possesses considerable potential for growth and development. These institutions are essential in shaping Kosovo's cultural and economic environment by providing employment possibilities for composers, performers, and industry specialists, contributing to the expansion of the music industry, and aiding in post-conflict recovery. In recent years, Kosovo's music sector has undergone substantial growth and development, driven by technological advancements, globalization, and changing consumer preferences. This progress contrasts with the underdeveloped state of the sector in the past, a result of economic, social, and political factors that this paper will further discuss. Kosovo's music scene is characterized by a wide variety of genres, ranging from traditional folk music to modern styles including pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic dance music (EDM). This diversified range of styles and influences caters to a broad spectrum of preferences and attracts listeners both within Kosovo and globally. The art music genre of the scene garners significant attention due to its growing popularity, diverse activities, extensive outreach, cultural enrichment, cultural diplomacy efforts, and possible economic influence. This study seeks to analyze the economic influence of the art music sector in Kosovo within the wider music business. It will conduct a thorough and systematic assessment of the sector's contributions to the country's economy, society, and cultural identity.

Household Environments and Functional Decline Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults in China: Variations by Gender, Age, and Residence.

This study examined the associations between household social, economic, and physical environments and the trajectory of functional limitations over time among middle-aged and older adults in China, and how this relationship differs by gender, age, and residence. Linear growth curve models were applied to a sample of 13,564 respondents aged 45 years and older from four waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS 2011-2018). Living alone, particularly for rural, female, and older respondents, was associated with a faster functional decline when compared to living with a spouse and without children. Improved housing quality was associated with a slower functional decline. Living with young descendants and without adult children for urban residents and a lower expenditure per capita for younger respondents were associated with a faster functional decline. These findings suggest that policies aimed at enhancing living conditions have the potential to improve physical functioning of older adults.

CEO overconfidence and investor sentiment in M&A decisions

This study investigates the interactive impact of CEO overconfidence and investor sentiment on merger behavior in U.S. firms. We find that the influence of CEO overconfidence on merger frequency is stronger during periods of high investor sentiment, diminishing in low sentiment times. It suggests that investor sentiment is a more dominant determinant than CEO overconfidence in shaping merger frequency. Furthermore, a bullish market trend motivates overconfident CEOs to pursue diversifying mergers, while a bearish market trend encourages cash payments. Overall, overconfident CEOs adapt their merger behavior based on the economic environment, with investor sentiment playing a dominant role in decision-making.

Trick or treat? A bibliometric literature review of corporate social responsibility and earnings management

AbstractResearch QuestionThis study seeks to examine and synthesize the extant literature to summarize whether the essence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) genuinely stems from an authentic social commitment, or if it primarily serves as a tactic to obscure earnings management (EM) practices.Research MethodologyA systematic literature review methodology is employed to thoroughly assess 75 articles selected from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, integrating bibliometric techniques, and following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.Research FindingsAmid evolving economic and social landscapes, the research of the CSR‐EM relationship increases, particularly in Asian contexts. Further research found that ESG (environmental, social, and governance) was gradually introduced into the theoretical framework of CSR‐EM. However, most of the research does not study the impact of the three dimensions of ESG, respectively. The study concludes the four varied CSR‐EM relationships: positive, negative, mixed (depending on EM type), and no correlation, and suggests that this should be determined by both macro (e.g., political and economic environment) and micro determinants (e.g., industries and governance). Therefore, the CSR‐EM relationship cannot be simply generalized. At present, most studies study CSR as a whole, and some literature uses CSR disclosure and performance to measure CSR respectively. However, distinctions between CSR disclosure and performance, namely CSR decoupling, remain underexplored.Theoretical and Practical ImplicationsThis review synthesizes four key findings and summarizes seven relevant theories from existing literature, thus enriching the theoretical contributions of CSR‐EM research. It underscores the significance of both macro and micro factors on the CSR‐EM relationship, introduces the concept of CSR decoupling, and outlines directions for future studies. The review offers insights for policymakers on CSR‐EM dynamics and suggests strategies for companies to enhance CSR practices and reporting consistency.