Economic Strategy Research Articles

British economic strategy and regional institutions in Asia, 2016–2024

AbstractThis paper examines the British approach to Asia and its regional institutions from the Brexit vote in 2016 to the British general election of July 2024. The paper analyses official government statements and debates among political elites about Britain’s foreign policy posture in the region, from the broad ‘Indo-Pacific tilt’ and the Belt and Road Initiative to engagement with specific regional institutions such as ASEAN, BRI, AIIB, CPTPP and bilateral trade and investment agreements. It argues that approaches to regional institutions in and across Asia are driven by a combination of a dominant policy view that there is a need to engage with Asia which is becoming economically and strategically more important in a changing world, alongside a desire to decentre China in British strategic approaches to the region (partly in response to US-China strategic rivalry). However, given China’s centrality to regional economic growth in Asia, this approach creates contradictions which are rarely addressed in British policy debates. This paper will contribute not only to understanding British foreign policy, but also shed light on the evolving “new regionalism” and power dynamics across the Indo/Asia–Pacific, and how actors external to the region view and engage with the development of regional institutions in Asia.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Stock Market Investments: A Neomarxist Approach to Alternative Socioeconomic Funding Agendas for National State Revenue Accumulation

In the contemporary economic, sociological and political landscape, the successful integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer programs into the predicted behaviour of stock market value in the financial markets represents a profound burgeoning frontier in economics, with profound implications for both wealth generation and national budget resource allocation. This paper explores the potential sociopolitical economic strategy of using AI-driven stock market prediction predictions to cumulatively accumulate capital funded for by taxpayer sourced representative income. As the baseline return accumulates in the form of investment potential then as a means of revenue accumulation for the state then the burden of the national budget upon its citizens decreases then ceases. This is the theorisation of the establishment of a Marxist economic social superstructure for the funding of social institutions through the powerful potential of artificial intelligence. By leveraging a portion of the national budget on advanced AI technologies, this strategy could dramatically facilitate the financial sustenance of political budgets aimed at social equity and economic justice. Through a critical review of sociological and economic theories, this theoretical research delineates exactly how such an approach could potentially reconfigure the mode of production and contribute to the reformation of a sustainable socialist economy.

Cross-linking γ-Polyglutamic Acid as a Multifunctional Binder for High-Performance SiOx Anode in Lithium-Ion Batteries.

SiOx is a highly promising anode material for realizing high-capacity lithium-ion batteries owing to its high theoretical capacity. However, the large volume change during cycling limits its practical application. The development of a binder has been demonstrated as one of the most economical and efficient strategies for enhancing the SiOx anode's electrochemical performance. In this work, a multifunctional binder (T-PGA) is fabricated by cross-linking γ-polyglutamic acid (PGA) and tannic acid (TA) for SiOx anodes. The introduction of TA into PGA helps to buffer the volume changes of the SiOx anodes, facilitate diffusion of Li+, and construct stable SEI layers. Benefiting from this proposed binder, the SiOx anode maintains a reversible capacity of 973.0 mAh g-1 after 500 cycles at 500 mA g-1 and the full cell, pairing with LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 cathode, delivers a reversible capacity of 133 mA h g-1 (73.2% retention) after 100 cycles. This study offers valuable insights into advanced binders that are used in high-performance Li-ion batteries.

An AI-driven approach for modeling the compressive strength of sustainable concrete incorporating waste marble as an industrial by-product.

A key goal of environmental policies and circular economy strategies in the construction sector is to convert demolition and industrial wastes into reusable materials. As an industrial by-product,Waste marble (WM), has the potential to replace cement and fine aggregate in concrete which helps with saving natural resources and reducing environmental harm. While many studies have so far investigated the effect of WM on compressive strength (CS), it is undeniable that conducting experimental activities requires time, money, and re-testing with changing materials and conditions. Hence, this study seeks to move from traditional experimental approaches towards artificial intelligence-driven approaches by developing three models-artificial neural network (ANN) and hybrid ANN with ant colony optimization (ACO) and biogeography-based optimization (BBO) to predict the CS of WM concrete. For this purpose, a comprehensive dataset including 1135 data records is employed from the literature. The models' performance is assessed using statistical metrics and error histograms, and a K-fold cross-validation analysis is applied to avoid overfitting problems, emphasize the models' reliable predictive capabilities, and generalize them. The statistical metrics indicated that the ANN-BBO model performed best with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9950 and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 1.2017MPa. Besides, the error distribution results revealed that the ANN-BBO outperformed the ANN and ANN-ACO with a narrower range of errors so that 98% of the predicted data points in the training phase by the ANN-BBO model experienced errors in the range of [-10%, 10%], whereas for the ANN-ACO and ANN models, this percentage was 85% and 79%, respectively. Additionally, the study employed SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis to clarify the impact of input variables on prediction accuracy and found that the specimen's age is the most influential variable. Eventually, to validate the ANN-BBO, a comparison was performed with the results of previous studies' models.

Does Current Account Balance Affect Economic Growth? Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

This study aimed to provide an econometric analysis of the impact of current account balances on economic growth in various subregions of Africa. It utilized the cross-sectional autoregressive distributive lags (CS-ARDL) technique and analyzed data from 1994 to 2022. The result showed that inflation has had an adverse effect on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in three specific regions. While the short-run influence of inflation on GDP may not be statistically significant, its long-term impact is notably negative. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has a negative effect on GDP in the short run; however, this effect is not statistically significant across the different economies. Over time, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has a negligible effect on the GDP in North Africa, but it has a negative and statistically significant influence in Central Africa. These findings emphasize the different regional dynamics in Africa and illustrate the intricate interplay between current account balances and economic growth. In conclusion this study affirmed the necessity for targeted economic strategies to combat inflation and utilize FDI for long-term growth.

Implementing regional blue economy research and innovation strategies: a case study for the Black Sea

The Black Sea is a vital resource with vast potential to boost the societal value of the Blue Economy for its surrounding countries. Improved knowledge and enhanced infrastructure together with better coordination and alignment of research and innovation efforts are critical for the better management of the deteriorated Black Sea ecosystem to help restore and maintain its resilience and enable sustainable use of natural resources. In 2019, the Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (Black Sea SRIA), was developed by the Black Sea experts, in cooperation with European marine institutes and organizations, with the support of the European Commission. Black Sea SRIA presents the priorities and ecosystem-based management options needed for a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Black Sea. Since 2019, efforts focused on developing concrete actions under the Black Sea SRIA Implementation Plan (IP) to contribute to the national blue economy strategies, better structuring of the relevant funding mechanisms for solution-oriented implementation and the international and regional strategies, supporting the co-funding mechanisms. In this study, we present a transnational process that has led to the development of the IP which utilized a bottom-up, co-design and co-creation-based approach. The SRIA and its IP support better governance of the blue economy principles towards sustainable development and conservation of unique Black Sea ecosystems. The Black Sea SRIA and IP address the fundamental research challenges of the region, promote the blue economy, and also build vital support systems and innovative research infrastructure and capacity together with academia, funding organizations, industry, policy, civil society and local communities. The IP is a long-lasting guide to catalyze new ideas and innovations towards and with the Black Sea community with strong implications for other sea basins.

Economic Strategies and Efficiency of Power Plants in Indonesia to Achieve Net Zero Emissions

Economic Strategies and Efficiency of Power Plants in Indonesia to Achieve Net Zero Emissions

Coupling of leaf economic and hydraulic strategy spectra facilitates desert restoration: a 70-year chronosequence study of Korshinks peashrub (Caragana korshinskii)

Coupling of leaf economic and hydraulic strategy spectra facilitates desert restoration: a 70-year chronosequence study of Korshinks peashrub (Caragana korshinskii)

Saline-alkaline conditions altered Bolboschoenus planiculmis carbon and nitrogen allocation tradeoffs

Soil salinization is an important factor that limits global agricultural production, specifically limiting the effectiveness of nitrogen-carbon resources and inhibiting plant growth. However, previous observations have focused on resource allocation, and there is little information about the coordination of carbon-nitrogen acquisition, allocation, and regulatory processes.We performed glasshouse pot experiments under different saline-alkaline conditions, and we measured 66 above- and belowground functional traits of Bolboschoenus planiculmis, to examine carbon-nitrogen resource acquisition and allocation strategies and their driving processes.Saline-alkaline conditions shifted B. planiculmis root-leaf functional traits toward a more acquisitive phenotype. Under low saline-alkaline conditions, although the root-leaf economic strategy inhibited resource acquisition efficiency, the opportunistic carbon-nitrogen capture and allocation strategy contributed to the maintenance of normal growth. However, highly saline-alkaline conditions led to the early enrichment of carbon-nitrogen resources in the corm. Additionally, saline-alkaline conditions altered the importance of physiological and biochemical processes in the carbon and nitrogen allocation regulatory network.In summary, B. planiculmis uses an opportunistic resource acquisition strategy under saline-alkaline conditions and a salt-avoidance allocation strategy under highly saline-alkaline conditions. This approach enables the maintenance of growth dominance under saline-alkaline conditions via gradient resource utilization.

Nexus among Economic Uncertainty, Geopolitical Risk, Oil Price Volatility and Economic Complexity in Saudi Arabia: Fresh Insights from Wavelet Local Multiple Correlations

Enhancing future economic growth through higher economic complexity is vital for sustainable growth strategies. Even though most studies are concerned with the key factors governing the economic complexity process, there needs to be more studies about the impact of risk factors on economic sophistication evolvement, particularly for oil-rentier economies. The present paper intends to delve into the dynamic connectedness between some risk factors, such as economic, political, and geopolitical risks and oil price volatility and the progress of economic complexity. We utilized quarterly data (1995Q1-2021Q4) for Saudi Arabia as a heavy oil-rich economy. As the first study to delve into the short-long term connections at various time scales and frequencies within a multivariable setting, we contribute to the literature by offering a spotless picture of economic complexity risk factors. In doing so, we resort to a novel wavelet local multiple correlation method, which can explore the varying patterns of time periods in the interconnections between the variables. Our findings disclose that oil volatility, geopolitical risk, and global uncertainties are positively connected to economic complexity over the long run. In contrast, their short-term effect is weak and mostly insignificant. These results indicate the resiliency of the Saudi economy to external to oil volatility shocks and intensification of global and local uncertainties. These outcomes offer policymakers new insights and prominent policy recommendations when designing economic strategies to achieve higher economic sophistication and sustainable growth.

Hydrate management strategies for CO2 injection into depleted gas reservoirs

Sequestering CO2 in depleted gas reservoirs using carbon capture, utilization, and storage technologies has emerged as a viable strategy for mitigating global carbon emissions. However, CO2 hydrate formation during injection processes is challenging and poses a risk to the operational integrity and efficiency of sequestration projects. This study investigated CO2 hydrate formation dynamics within silica gel environments that closely mimicked the median pore size of natural sandstone reservoirs, particularly targeting depleted gas fields in the East Sea of Korea. Integrating kinetic insights into experimental hydrate formation assessments and molecular dynamics simulations provided a comprehensive understanding of the CO2 hydrate formation mechanisms, as well as the formation dynamics and stability of the CO2 hydrates. For example, the hydrate formation kinetics were significantly reduced in the small pores, suggesting the feasibility of implementing more economical hydrate inhibitor injection strategies during CO2 injection. Moreover, this study evaluated the inhibitory effects of NaCl and methanol on CO2 hydrate stability by accurately measuring the three-phase (H-Lw-V) equilibria and employing silica gels (6 nm pore size). The presence of methanol and amorphous silica significantly impacted hydrate formation, with methanol potentially influencing the local structure around the hydrate phase and silica hindering hydrate growth through dynamic interactions with CO2 molecules. In addition, we elucidated the complex interplay between CO2, water, and methanol (hydrate inhibitor) within the constrained environments of porous media, offering strategic insights for the development of effective CO2 injection and sequestration strategies. Integrating molecular-level observations with real-world geological modeling presents a novel methodology for enhancing the safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of carbon capture and storage operations. The findings of this study provide critical insights into hydrate phase behavior, highlighting the importance of precise equilibrium determination under simulated reservoir conditions to effectively anticipate and mitigate hydrate formation challenges.

Durian Agribusiness Development Strategy in Boven Digoel Regency

The agricultural sector, which includes forestry, fisheries, animal husbandry, hunting, and farming services, is the main contributor to forming Boven Digoel Regency's GRDP. The largest commodity contributing to GRDP comes from the plantation crop subsector, not the horticulture subsector, such as durian, even though the subsector has considerable production potential. This is due to suboptimal post-harvest management and limited knowledge of durian cultivation technology among local farmers. Most farmers still use less efficient traditional methods, so the yield could be more optimal. This study aims to analyze internal and external factors and formulate local economic development strategies based on durian agribusiness. The data used included primary and secondary data, and the analysis was conducted using descriptive methods, IFE, EFE, IE Matrix, SWOT Analysis, and QSPM. The results showed that the durian agribusiness economy in Boven Digoel Regency based on the IE matrix is in quadrant I (growth and investment) with internal factors 3.13 and external factors 3.08. SWOT analysis resulted in three main strategies: market expansion, diversification of durian processed products, and restructuring the production system. Diversification of processed products, such as dodol and ice cream, proved to be the most effective strategy based on QSPM analysis, with a score of 6.32.

Statistical analysis of the impact of profitability in the manufacturing and service sectors on the UK Economy’s Growth

The UK economy's performance is closely tied to the profitability of its Manufacturing Sector (MS) and Service Sector (SS). Understanding these sectors' dynamics is crucial for effective policymaking. Integrating sustainable practices in both sectors enhances profitability and operational efficiency while contributing to economic growth and reducing environmental impact. This study investigates the relationship between UK economic growth and profitability in the MS and SS from 1998 to 2022. The primary objective is to examine how profitability influences the UK's growth trajectory. Employing various statistical methods, including correlation, regression, cointegration, and variance decomposition analyses, the study aims to provide insights into the interplay between GDP and sector profitability. A quantitative approach using secondary data on GDP and profitability from reliable sources is adopted. Correlation analysis explores relationships between these variables, while regression analysis assesses the impact of MS and SS profitability on GDP. Cointegration tests identify long-term equilibrium relationships, and variance decomposition analysis reveals the variability of GDP and sector profitability over time. The correlation matrix indicates positive associations between GDP and both sectors, with the SS showing a stronger correlation. Regression analysis confirms significant effects of both sectors on GDP, with the SS exerting a positive influence and the MS a negative impact. Cointegration tests highlight long-term stability, and variance decomposition analysis emphasizes the dynamic nature of these relationships. This study elucidates the intricate link between UK economic growth and sector profitability, underscoring the SS's critical role in driving expansion while addressing challenges in the MS. Policy recommendations include enhancing productivity and innovation in both sectors, informed by evidence-based decision-making. Overall, the study contributes valuable insights into the UK economy's growth dynamics, guiding sustainable economic development strategies.

Cost minimization analysis of chronic kidney disease management: Evaluating economic strategies for early intervention and treatment optimization

Chronic kidney disease is a common global health condition characterized by progressive loss of kidney function and significant cost burden on the healthcare system worldwide. The disease often coexists with conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, further complicates its management and increasing associated costs. Effective economic management, particularly in the early stages of CKD, is crucial for reducing long-term healthcare expenses and improving patient outcomes. This review examines the utility of cost minimization analysis (CMA) as a strategic tool for evaluating economic options in CKD management. CMA is an economic evaluation method that compares the costs of different therapeutic interventions that have demonstrated equivalent clinical effectiveness, thereby aiding healthcare providers and policymakers in identifying the most cost-efficient options to optimize resource utilization. This review highlights the economic impact of CKD, focusing on the increasing costs linked to advanced disease management and the essential role of early diagnosis and intervention in reducing these costs and explores various cost-effective strategies for CKD management, including pharmacological treatments, lifestyle modifications, and patient education, to identify approaches that are both clinically and economically advantageous. Additionally, the broader implications of cost minimization for healthcare policy, clinical decision-making, and resource allocation are discussed for their significance in a resource-limited healthcare setting. Evidence indicates that prioritizing cost-effective CKD management through early intervention and preventive care can significantly lower healthcare expenditures, slow the disease progression, and enhance patient’s quality of life. By adopting such strategies, healthcare systems can achieve better clinical outcomes and ensure financial sustainability.

Sudan's catastrophe: the role of changing dynamics of food and power in the Gezira agricultural scheme.

This article explores the role of historical, political, and economic processes in understanding war and famine in Sudan after 2023. The focus is on Al-Gezira, the site of Sudan's largest agricultural scheme. Using ethnography, interviews, and document reviews, the study analyses the Gezira irrigation project in three phases. First, the 1980s and 1990s, when patronage politics dominated its management. Second, the neoliberal strategies of the Gezira Scheme Act of 2005, which enabled Islamist profiteering while increasing vulnerability among farmers and labourers and tensions between them. Third, post 2018, when political movements used evidence of the scheme's deterioration to call for revolution, but once achieved, previous tensions grew and have been manipulated during the war. Sudan provides an example of how decades of war and neoliberal economic strategies have led to a deeply-rooted, violent, and extractive political economy. This has been to the benefit of business and elites, leaving many to a life of precarity, exploitation, and hunger.

Circularity assessment of product-service systems using system dynamics modeling

Product-Service Systems (PSS) show the potential to implement the principles of a circular economy based on their characteristics, such as the use of an extended value network or the access of the PSS provider after distribution. PSS research shows that PSS are not inherently circular but must be designed specifically towards circularity. This requires an assessment method that can quantify the dimensions of circularity.In this paper, an assessment method based on system dynamics (SD) modeling is presented that allows the use of raw materials and the generation of waste to be evaluated in the context of PSS. The SD model is based on a conceptual integration of circular economy strategies into the lifecycle of PSS. The model formulation is described in detail and validated with several tests. The capabilities of the assessment approach are presented in an application scenario. The results show that SD modeling can be used for circularity assessment and can possibly serve as a starting point to enhance circularity.

Study on High-quality Development Strategy of Rural Economy Under the Strategy of Agriculture, Rural Areas and Farmers

With the in-depth implementation of the "three rural" strategy, the high-quality development of rural economy has become an important goal to achieve rural revitalization. This paper starts with the current situation of rural economic development, analyzes the main challenges facing rural economy, including infrastructure construction lag, unreasonable industrial structure and brain drain and innovation ability. On this basis, the core strategy of high-quality development of rural economy is put forward from three aspects: industrial revitalization, ecological revitalization and talent revitalization. By optimizing the industrial structure and promoting the integration of the primary, secondary and tertiary industries, the agricultural production efficiency is improved; Emphasizing green agriculture and environmental governance to promote sustainable development; Attention should be paid to attracting high-quality talents and improving rural education and training systems to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in rural areas. Through comprehensive measures, we will strive to provide systematic support for the high-quality development of the rural economy and help the smooth implementation of the rural revitalization strategy.

Power Equalizing Model for Financial Equity in Education Based on Islamic Values

This research explores how the power-equalizing model in educational financial management can increase fund allocation efficiency and transparency by integrating key elements, including stakeholder participation, the use of technology, and innovative economic management strategies. The research method involved interviews with participants, educators, educational managers, and technology developers to identify best practices and challenges faced in implementing this model. The findings show that the power equalizing model in financial management can improve transparency and accountability in fund management. Still, stakeholder coordination and technology adaptation challenges need to be addressed further. The conclusions of this research emphasize the importance of integrating innovative elements in educational and financial management to achieve better efficiency and fair allocation of funds.

Evaluation of sustainable hydrogen production technologies by fuzzy AHP analysis with bootstrapping

The concept of a hydrogen economy has received increasing attention worldwide. Hydrogen is a promising energy carrier that contributes to the development of a sustainable and reliable energy sector. Selection of the most sustainable hydrogen production technology (HPT) plays a significant role in promoting a hydrogen economy. However, it is regarded as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem with several incompatible evaluation criteria. In this study, we develop an MCDM approach based on Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) for prioritizing HPT alternatives, focusing on Egypt as a case study. Our contributions are twofold. First, to combat the issue of a small number of subject matter experts, a bootstrap method is employed to validate the main criteria weights in FAHP. Second, we conduct a comparative FAHP analysis from a broad perspective of the national experts from a developing country and the international experts from developed countries. Our results show that PV electrolysis is the most preferable technology option from the perspectives of both the national and international experts. Since the FAHP approach proposed is a flexible framework that can be applied to countries other than Egypt, it will support global policymakers and industry stakeholders in their decision making toward a sustainable and efficient hydrogen economy strategy.

Action research on circular economy strategies in fashion retail

PurposeThe aim of this study is to explore the role and impact of action research in the adoption of circular economy strategies by a fashion retail brand. This exploration is motivated by the need to address the underutilization of action research in management studies, despite its potential to foster a deep understanding of organizational processes and to drive positive transformations. The study seeks to illustrate how action research can contribute to the practical implementation of sustainability initiatives, specifically within the context of new environmental legislation and growing demands for sustainable practices in retailing.Design/methodology/approachThis research employs an action research methodology, particularly suited to the retail field, where understanding and influencing organizational processes are key. Through a detailed case study of a fashion retail brand, the study illustrates how action research facilitates the adoption of circular economy strategies.FindingsThe findings of this study underscore the effectiveness of action research in implementing circular economy strategies within the fashion retail industry. Specifically, it highlights how this approach has led to the successful reduction of waste and reintegration of products into their lifecycle.Originality/valueThe originality of this study lies in its thorough application of action research to measure and refine the outcomes of circular economy strategies in retailing. This novel approach provides substantial insights into the potential of the circular economy to drive practical innovations in business practices within retail.