Favorable Market Research Articles

Exploring the Relationship Between Capital Structure and SME Profitability: A Case Study of Lusaka's Electronic Device Market

The capital structure decisions made by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within the electronic device market in Lusaka, Zambia, significantly impact their financial health and long-term sustainability. This study aims to understand how the allocation of financing through debt and equity affects SME profitability, filling a gap in empirical evidence specific to Zambia's electronic device market. Capital structure decisions play a pivotal role in determining firms' financing policies and overall performance. Through a descriptive research design and panel data analysis, this study investigates the relationship between capital structure and profitability. Findings reveal that while factors such as financial risk, market conditions, and access to financing options may influence SME profitability, the effects are not statistically significant. However, better access to financing options and favorable market conditions are associated with higher growth prospects. Recommendations include exploring additional factors affecting SME growth, adopting a comprehensive approach to financing, conducting market analysis, enhancing financial risk management, capacity building, and government support. Policymakers and SMEs can utilize these insights to optimize capital structure decisions, foster growth, and contribute to economic development in Zambia's electronic device market. Further research, including longitudinal studies, is recommended to deepen understanding and inform strategic decision-making in this dynamic sector.

Primary trader preferences for participating in high-value markets in Black Pepper- A choice analysis

Facilitating the integration of primary traders into modern agricultural value chains, known as high-value markets (HVMs), presents a promising avenue for improving the sustainability of black pepper value chains in Kerala. Due to increased price volatility and risk exposure in trading conditions, primary traders are hesitant to prioritize quality aspects in their procurement decisions. A Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) experiment was employed with traders in the Agro-ecological units (AEUs) 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20 and 21 of Kerala to comprehend their preferences regarding quality attributes that could promote sustained participation in HVMs. This study incorporates a unique aspect by examining the consistency of choices between the best and worst options, providing deeper insights into traders' decision-making processes and ensuring an accurate evaluation of preferences by minimizing biases. The choice experiment utilized fractional factorial and balanced incomplete block designs. The results indicate that traders predominantly favour a flexible, incentive-based pricing model and long-term formal relationships with buyers. Conversely, traders consistently rated premium payments and certification as the least favourable market attributes. Preference variations were influenced by traders' experience, income levels and location. The results reveal that primary traders possess the least understanding of factors that may facilitate their entry into HVMs. Our findings underscore the significance of educating traders on crucial market attributes that facilitate their participation in HVMs. Further research on their willingness to adapt to the requirements of HVMs to maximize the benefits to the system.

The Impact of Expanding the Middle-Income Group on the Transformation of Industrial Structure

Industrial restructuring is a trending topic in current research. To propel the high-level improvement of the economy and achieve common prosperity, building a modern industrial network is an effective measure. Upgrading the internal structure of the industry can transform the mode of economic improvement, adapt to the new economic situation, and meet the needs of the times. Some researchers have discovered that expanding intermediate level people has a fatal impact on industrial structure, but there are still research gaps in the underlying mechanisms and impact issues. Therefore, this article explores the relationship between enlarging the intermediate level people of income. In addition, industrial structural transformation by reviewing relevant literature and collecting data. Research has found that enlarging the intermediate level people of income are able to provide talent support though the optimizing industrial distribution types in production; Further stimulating production vitality through consumption; Creating a favorable market environment in the social-economic aspect is conducive to promoting industrial structural transformation and achieving effective upgrading of industries.

PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRADE AND ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN RUSSIA AND TURKEY IN THE NEW ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Introduction: The purpose of the article is to determine the prospects for the development of trade and economic relations between Russia and Turkey at the present stage. The relevance поставленной of this goal is due to the fact, that Turkey did not join the economic sanctions against Russia and took advantage of the favorable market conditions to increase the supply of priority goods to the Russian market, but the prospects for the development of these relations are currently not clearly defined, as a result of which the aspect requires further in-depth study. Methods: Research methods are analysis and systematization of information, as well as methods of generalization and analogy. Results: The results of the study show that Russia is one of the main suppliers of energy resources for Turkey, and Turkey occupies a unique position as the main supplier of consumer goods, such as textiles, clothing, food, household appliances and electronics. The study revealed significant fluctuations in the share of trade flows between countries depending on the foreign policy situation and economic sanctions, which reflects the high sensitivity of trade to political factors. Available data: The article presents data on trade turnover between Russia and Turkey for the period from 2015 to 2023. Discussion: It is concluded that the development of Russian-Turkish relations is based on mutual benefit, which allows us to judge their further development. Promising areas for the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries are: further development of parallel imports and Turkey's participation in supply chains, increasing the supply of Turkish-made consumer goods to the Russian market, as well as joint cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, including joint construction and commissioning of industrial facilities. In the current political and economic environment, new prospects for deepening Russian-Turkish relations have emerged, including currency cooperation and the development of the infrastructure of trade and economic ties. In the long term, both countries may consider cooperation opportunities in related areas, such as nuclear medicine, the production of isotopes and radioactive materials.

Influencer Marketing, Narrative Transportation, and Consumer Well‐Being: An Exploration of How Virtual Influencers Impact Followers' Well‐Being

ABSTRACTWith recent advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence and computer‐generated imagery, virtual influencers (VIs) have become prominent branding tools that command high engagement rates. Most extant research explores the marketing outcomes of using VIs in brand campaigns. However, little is known about how interacting with VIs on social media platforms may affect consumers' well‐being. This research takes a comprehensive approach, developing a nuanced understanding of whether (and how) human‐like VIs (HVIs) impact consumers' well‐being. We employ a conceptual development approach drawing on scholarship from influencer marketing, narrative transportation, and consumer well‐being and gather additional support for the conceptual framework from data collected by interviewing 25 followers of HVIs. The conceptual framework proposes that when interacting with influencers' social media posts, followers experience narrative transportation, which positively influences followers' hedonic and eudaimonic well‐being. However, the conceptual framework also proposes that these relationships are moderated by the type of influencer (human vs. virtual) sharing the post. Specifically, we suggest that interactions with HVIs provide followers with enjoyment (hedonic well‐being) and support their self‐acceptance, personal growth, relationships, and autonomy (eudaimonic well‐being). We also provide initial evidence of the favorable marketing outcomes of enhanced well‐being from engagement with HVIs, including contemplation of brand purchase. The study thus advances extant VI literature by proposing a theoretically and empirically informed conceptual model that examines HVIs' influence on consumer well‐being. Also, it contributes to addressing the broader calls for research on the impact of social media and influencer marketing on consumer well‐being.

Assessing the Performance of Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in Indian Stock Markets: A Longitudinal Study from 2014-2023

This research investigates the performance of Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in the Indian stock market over a decade (2014-2023). The study aims to assess both short-term and long-term IPO returns and the factors influencing their performance. Using a quantitative, longitudinal approach, data was collected from the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India, covering 500 IPOs. The analysis examines short-term listing day returns and long-term performance up to five years post-IPO, focusing on variables like firm size, market sentiment, and sector-specific dynamics. The findings reveal substantial variations in IPO performance, with average listing day returns ranging from 18.98% to 26.35%, particularly peaking during market volatility in 2020. However, long-term returns exhibit a decline, with many IPOs underperforming five years after listing. Regression analysis shows that firm size and market sentiment significantly affect IPO performance, with larger firms and favorable market conditions driving better outcomes. The technology and pharmaceutical sectors outperformed, while real estate IPOs lagged. The study highlights the importance of due diligence for investors and the need for continued regulatory reforms to improve market transparency and efficiency. This research fills a gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive, decade-long perspective on IPO performance in India.

Strategy Selection Using Multi-Armed Bandit Algorithms in Financial Markets

This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Multi-Armed Bandit (MAB) algorithms in choosing the optimal trading strategy among the sub optimal ones within financial markets. The research aims to addresses the challenge of adapting to dynamic market conditions. By introducing a Composite Trading Strategy that integrates trend-following, mean reversion, and momentum strategies, the study investigates whether increased trading frequency enhances the performance of profitability of various MAB algorithms, including UCB, Thompson Sampling, and epsilon-greedy. The experimental results indicate that while the introduction of complex strategies greatly improves returns in favorable market conditions, MAB algorithms still face limitations in adverse market environments. The findings highlight the potential of MAB algorithms in financial strategy selection and suggest directions for future research to enhance their adaptability in adverse markets.

A Financial Analysis and Valuation of Shell

In todays era of global energy transition, the strategic choices made by energy giants like Shell carry immense significance, shaping not only their own future blueprint but also profoundly influencing the overall energy sectors trends. The article provides a comprehensive analysis of Shell plc with liquidity, solvency, profitability, and valuation analysis of 2023 with its main competitors in the oil and gas industry. Despite facing challenges from fluctuating commodity prices and regulatory changes, Shell maintains a competitive advantage and favorable market position. The company demonstrates robust financial health, with strong liquidity, solvency, and profitability ratios compared to industry peers. Nevertheless, the analysis reveals the companys profitability ratios lag behind competitors, indicating room for improvement. Although facing uncertainties in future commodity prices and regulatory environments, the analysis highlights Shells commitment to balancing environmental goals with shareholder value, as evidenced by its energy transition strategy. Shells stock is still fairly valued according to the analysis, presenting a compelling investment opportunity with its well-constructed financial framework. Overall, Shells strategic plans and adjustments aim to ensure resilience and adaptability, promising investors sustainable development amidst evolving market dynamics.

The role of distribution centres in the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan

Distribution centres play a key role in the supply chain and their insufficient number will entail supply chain disruptions —supply delays and problems, as well as lost profits. Currently, distribution centres in Kazakhstan are located only in large cities. However, the growth of e-commerce (from 11729.9 billion tenge to 15763.7 billion tenge in 2022 compared to 2020) determines the need to solve this problem. Our study establishes the dependence between the areas of distribution centres and the e-commerce volume. This analysis, unlike the existing ones, examines the effect of the growth of e-commerce volumes on the increasing number of distribution centres as a prerequisite for the development of the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan against the background of the increase in the volume of goods supplied from China in transit to Europe. The aim of the study was to analyse the role of distribution centres in the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan. We justify the need to increase the number of distribution centres due to the increase in both turnover in goods transit, wholesale, and retail trade. The introduction of distribution centres ensures the continuous movement of goods and strengthens the connection between suppliers and consumers. The emergence of new technologies and innovations, combined with favourable market conditions and political support, creates favourable conditions for the development of reliable distribution centres that can improve logistics efficiency and contribute to the overall economic development of Kazakhstan.

Features of the Development of International Trade in Tourist Services

Introduction. The relevance of studying the peculiarities of the development of international trade in tourist services is determined by the significant role of world tourism in the structure of the global economy. In the conditions of a complex international political situation, which is dynamically changing, it is crucial to identify the vectors of the development of the tourism industry to determine the future structure of the macro-regional distribution of tourist flows. Aim and tasks. The purpose of this study is to identify the dominant factors and prospects for the development of international tourism business in the conditions of modern global economic and political instability to determine the most favourable marketing strategies for interaction in the international market of tourist services by extrapolating the results to the possibilities of post-war recovery of the tourism industry in Ukraine. Results. An analysis of international tourism arrivals showed that the average annual growth rate of the industry from 1995 to 2020 average annual growth of international tourist arrivals was more than 4 per cent. Over the estimated period from 1995 to 2023, the average arrival rate decreased to 2.46 per cent. Macro-regions are considered the most promising for the scaling of international tourism, as well as the factors that will contribute to this and can inhibit economic processes. Special attention is paid to the positioning of Ukraine during the post-war recovery of the tourism industry. Forecast indicators indicate that international tourist arrivals to Ukraine could reach 61 million people in the tenth year of the post-war period. An alternative strategy for promoting national tourist products and brands in the target markets of Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East was proposed, and the feasibility of continuing the promotion of Ukraine as a tourist brand was substantiated. Conclusions. This study confirms the vector of the shift in global tourist flows under the influence of a number of factors that deepen the contradictions between the Global South and the North, revealing key trends in the growth and displacement of international tourist flows among countries belonging to two opposite camps. The directions of institutional and structural changes required to restore international tourism in Ukraine in the post-war period to strengthen Ukraine's position in the global tourism market are proposed.

Techno-economic feasibility of CO2 utilization for production of green urea by Indian cement industries

The cement industry contributes substantially to global carbon emissions, necessitating urgent adoption of mitigation pathways aligned with climate goals. This study investigates the technical and economic viability of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from cement plants in India and using that captured CO2 to produce green urea. The research aims to determine the feasibility of the CCUS approach as a practical way to reduce CO2 emissions from cement production while also boosting India's self-sufficiency in producing urea, a crucial fertilizer. The research uses a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) framework to assess various factors, including the technological readiness of CCUS technologies, the capital and operating costs of setting up and running such a system, the market demand for green urea, and the potential reduction in CO2 emissions. The study focused on 32 major cement plants in India, using data from their annual reports to inform the MCA model with an assumption of a post-combustion Monoethanolamine (MEA) scrubbing capacity CO2 capture capacity of 0.5 million tonnes per year per plant and used existing data and modeling techniques to analyze the feasibility of converting the captured CO2 into urea. The key findings indicate that this approach is promising and projects a 12.4% reduction in CO2 emissions from the cement industry if these 32 plants implement the CCUS technology. Additionally, it highlights a favorable market for the green urea produced, with an estimated output of 21.82 million tonnes per year, enough to offset a significant portion of India's reliance on urea imports. Financially, the study projects a six-year payback period and a 16.7% return on investment. It concludes that implementing CCUS technology to create green urea in Indian cement plants is technically and economically feasible. The approach has the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions while also supporting India's goal of self-sufficiency in urea production. However, further investigation and pilot-scale projects are recommended to validate the model's findings and optimize various aspects, such as managing flue gas impurities and leveraging waste heat for energy efficiency.

Big-Data Technology in Finance: Quality of Stock-Trading Information in Vietnamese Stock Market

Quantitative finance is a field of applied research where the data is important information investors’ profitability and financial risk of financial assets in the processes of decision-making. And financial institutions and securities have applied big-data technologies in stock market to exploit useful information for investors using mobile stock-trading apps. The standardization of database from the raw data of companies’ financial statements, statistical reports and stock-trading data support to enhance data mining analysis by predictive patterns with high feasibility for useful information for investors’ decision-making. And quantitative tools of predictive patterns for financial advanced indexes test expected market return and favourable market timing for buying or selling stocks in stages of market cycle and prediction of market risk before market-trend crash. On the development of securities’ mobile stock-trading apps, the addition of new advanced indexes increases the quality of stock-trading information in Vietnamese stock market generally, seeks competitive advantages of market segments for securities particularly when they change big-data technology in mobile stock-trading apps. This contribution has a better using FinTech combined with stock-trading algorithms to provide more useful and confident information of optimal profitability and financial risk management that individual and institutional investors catch up the trend of big-data technology.

Drivers of housing developers’ perception on future construction reuse material premium for wood

The construction sector has significant environmental footprints due to its extensive con-sumption of resources, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation. Strategies like ex-panding the reuse of construction materials may contribute towards the sector's environmen-tal objectives. Enhancing the reuse of wood, a material associated with low environmental impacts, may further improve the sector's environmental outcomes. However, at this point, reuse of wood materials is marginal. Understanding the willingness of market agents to embark on such use will aid in policy and market development. This study examines the behavioral and institutional factors that affect the premium of housing developers for the use of reused wood materials in the construction of future residential and leisure buildings. It is based on a novel concept known as the construction reuse material premium (CRP). A conceptual model is developed from a comprehensive theoretical framework based on both theory of planned behavior and institutional theory. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey in fall 2022, targeting Norwegian housing development companies. Survey data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that housing developers' attitudes, regulatory and market conditions, and company size negatively influence expected CRP, suggesting developers foresee a greater shift in their willingness to accept costs for reused materials compared to consumer willingness to pay. In contrast, stakeholder influence and positive subjective norms toward reuse are associated with a more favorable market outlook for buildings using reused materials.

Determinants of labor market resilience

It is noted that the resilience of the labor market is an important category of social and economic development in conditions of perma­nent shocks and uncertainty. Global challenges, the unpredictability of cyclical fluctuations of the economy, information asymmetry of the mar­ket, the influence of behavioral factors often determine the dynamics and movement vectors of various types of markets, including the labor market, raising the question of strengthening its fundamental foundations and effective func­tioning despite numerical limitations and risks. Hence the need to study all the multifaceted factors and challenges to the functioning of the labor market and to substantiate on this basis the paradigm of resilience of the labor market in conditions of systemic uncertainty. It is substan­tiated that the determinants of the labor market resilience are cyclical and struc­tural factors that determine the ability of the labor market to avoid, withstand or recover from shock effects. Significant demographic changes in the number, gender-age composition of the population, changes in technological patterns, and introduc­tion of technological innovations, often repeated cyclical economic downturns; military and poli­tical conflicts change the sphere of employment of the population in various countries of the world and demonstrate the general internal sensitivity of the labor market to shock effects. It is emphasized that the task of the state and business is to ensure macroeconomic stability, develop human capital, social protec­tion of the population, increase the level of employment, stable and predictable economic growth, and promote the flexibility of the labor market through the development of various forms of employment, such as remote or part-time. As a result, a favorable market environ­ment will serve as an indicator of the develop­ment of innovations, the successful functioning of small and medium-sized enterprises, which will form innovative workplaces in the future and increase the resilience of the labor market as a whole

Quantitative Assessment of Market Conditions and Marketing Strategies in the Financial Products Sector: A Case Study of XX Insurance Company, Beijing

The financial products sector in China has undergone significant transformation, driven by economic reforms, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. This study provides a quantitative assessment of market conditions and marketing strategies within this sector, with a specific focus on XX Insurance Company, Beijing. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey of 200 respondents in Beijing, the research examines key factors influencing market dynamics, evaluates the effectiveness of XX Insurance Company’s marketing strategies, and identifies the main drivers of consumer behavior. The findings reveal a generally favorable market environment, with economic growth, regulatory changes, and competitive dynamics as primary influencers. Notably, product features, competitive pricing, strong brand reputation, and excellent customer service emerged as significant factors affecting consumer decisions. The study highlights the importance of digital presence, customer service, and innovative product offerings in enhancing marketing effectiveness. Based on the insights gained, several recommendations are proposed to optimize the company’s marketing strategies and improve its market positioning. This research contributes valuable knowledge to both the academic community and industry practitioners, offering practical guidance for navigating the competitive landscape of China's insurance market.

Do Adverse Opinions on Internal Control over Financial Reporting Lead to Changes in Reporting Format?

SYNOPSIS This study examines whether the format of audit reports on financial statements and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) changes in response to the disclosure of one or more material weaknesses in ICFR. The results indicate that (1) reporting format changes are more likely when adverse opinions are issued on ICFR and (2) formats are more likely to change from a combined report to separate reports than vice versa. Supplemental analysis reveals that format changes to separate reports do not result in more favorable market perceptions but do result in marginally lower levels of auditor dismissal/change. These findings indicate that auditors have incentives to acquiesce to client requests to change reporting formats, even though such changes do not result in more favorable market perceptions. Data Availability: Data are available from public resources noted in the text. JEL Classifications: M41; M42.

Современные тенденции и направления развития овощеводства в целях обеспечения продовольственной безопасности страны

Abstract. The relevance and necessity of ensuring food security and independence of the Russian Federation in modern geopolitical and foreign economic conditions is beyond doubt. The purpose of the study is to analyze the trends in the development of the vegetable growing sector in Russia, to assess its contribution to the process of ensuring the country's food security and accessibility for citizens of all food products necessary for an active and healthy lifestyle. Research methods: to achieve the set research goal, general scientific methods of systematic, logical and comparative analysis, analytical generalizations and systematization, economic and statistical and expert assessments were used. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the development of practical recommendations for improving agricultural policy in the field of effective management and functioning of the vegetable growing sector of the agro-industrial complex of Russia. Results. The key conclusion of the study: increasing nutrition culture encourages producers to expand the range and assortment of vegetable crops, the current favorable market situation in the domestic market, plus the large export potential of the industry and state interest in ensuring food security of the country give Russian farmers a good chance for successful development.

Optimal Brassicaceae family microgreens from a phytochemical and sensory perspective

Microgreens, also called superfoods, emerge because of their high levels of nutrients, diverse flavour profiles, and sustainable cultivation methods, which make them culinary delights and valuable to a healthy and flavorful diet. The present study investigated Brassicaceae family microgreens, proposing a novel system (quality indices) that allows scoring among them. Fourteen Brassica microgreen species were morphological, phytochemical, and sensorial investigated. The morphological assessment revealed that radish microgreens exhibited the highest leaf area (p < 0.05), while red mizuna demonstrated superior yield. Cauliflower microgreens contained the highest concentrations of ascorbic acid (HPLC-DAD) and total phenolic content (p < 0.05). Phytochemical analysis using HPLC-MS/MS identified over 18 glucosinolates and phenolic compounds. Red mustard and red cabbage showed the highest glucosinolate content (p < 0.05). Watercress exhibited the highest phenolic compound content (p < 0.05), primarily flavonoids, while broccoli and radish contained the highest isothiocyanate levels. Cauliflower microgreens resulted in the most consumer-accepted variety. Appling quality indices scoring system identified radish, cauliflower, and broccoli microgreens as the most promising species. This study underscores the potential of Brassica microgreens as an excellent source of health-promoting phytochemicals with favorable market acceptance, providing valuable insights for both nutritional research and commercial applications.

Design of Cashew Marketing Strategy Through Evaluation of Export Potential to Enter the Global Market (Case Study of Mrs. Tini's MSMEs in Ciputat)

This study aims to identify market expansion opportunities and address the administrative barriers MSMEs Kacang Mete Bu Tini face in exporting fresh or dried shelled cashew nuts with HS Code 080132 to Malaysia and Thailand. MSMEs Kacang Mete Bu Tini encounter significant administrative obstacles due to the lack of essential export documents such as quality certificates, certificates of origin, etc. These obstacles slow the market expansion and reduce the product's competitiveness in international markets. The research conducted through Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) analysis shows that Indonesian cashew nuts have significant comparative advantages in the Malaysian and Thai markets, with RCA values reaching 3.318911 in Malaysia and 2.556656 in Thailand. An RCA value greater than one indicates a comparative advantage in both markets. Regarding competitive advantage, Malaysia holds a "Rising Star" position with an annual export market share growth of 0.281030 percent and a cashew market growth of 0.180204 percent per year. In contrast, Thailand is in a "Retreat" position with an annual export market share growth of -0.509915 percent and a cashew market growth of -0.009638 percent per year, indicating a decline in demand and less satisfactory export performance. The conclusion is that Malaysia is a more suitable export destination for Cashew Nut Bu Tini MSMEs, given the higher RCA value and more favorable market position. MSMEs Kacang Cashew Bu Tini needs to promptly complete the necessary administrative documents to enhance product competitiveness and expand export markets.

Job training in polarizing job markets: A longitudinal analysis using administrative microdata

AbstractDeveloped nations have experienced a longstanding trend of reshaping the labour market's occupational structure. This trend, named job market polarization, describes how middle‐level jobs have decreased their relative share of the labour market in favour of high‐ and low‐complexity jobs. The literature has pointed to technological change as the main factor in setting this configuration, which accompanied the transition to a knowledge economy as a source of competitive advantages. Still, the narratives of technological change are anchored to specific technologies and times that do not fit the emerging challenges of the fourth industrial revolution and the increasing relevance of the digital economy. In this paper, I explore how job polarization dynamics have interacted with active labour market policies' effectiveness by focusing on job training skill premiums. I use nationally representative data to evaluate cross‐sectionally and longitudinally the relationship between job training access, job polarization, and wages. The results show that polarization poses a wage penalty while it increases the relative value of training skill premium. I discuss how the setting of a polarized market could be considered for future skill‐based interventions concerning digital technologies.