Perinatal depression policies in China: A three-dimensional analysis with implications for low- and middle-income countries health systems.

As Mobile Financial Services payment methods advance, the Palm Payment Method (PPM) demonstrates some commercial potential. However, this potential is still emerging, particularly in global adoption contexts. While previous studies have examined PPM from a technical performance perspective, this approach is not entirely realistic, as the consumer behavior perspective, specifically the simple view of the method is needed for PPM to occur. Therefore, this study includes users’ perceptions of simplicity of PPM into an extended mobile technology acceptance model for PPM context. An empirical investigation, based on WeChat voice and video call interviews with international students living in China, as potential users, supports the research model. The findings reveal that perceived simplicity has a strong positive effect on both acceptance of PPM and its key determinant. By incorporating this construct into mobile technology acceptance theory, this study enhances the understanding of PPM adoption and provides valuable insights for researchers and industry practitioners. • Perceived simplicity directly increases Palm Payment Method (PPM) acceptance. • Attitude and mobile usefulness directly drive PPM acceptance. • PPM represents the next advancement in MFS payment methods. • PPM's dual biometrics (palmprint + vein) provide better security.

The attrition of customers is a major problem in the financial services industry that has a significant impact on the institutional profitability and long run sustainability. Timely recognition of those customers that have high chances of abandoning the services allows the organizations to adopt proactive retention strategies and rational resource allocation. The classical statistical and machine learning models like the Logistic Regression and the Support Vector Machines have been extensively utilized in churn prediction, but cannot easily characterize non-linear relationships between variables in large customer data. The recent developments in the field of deep learning have shown better results on the high-dimensional behavioral data modeling owing to their capability to harness the complex interaction of features. This paper will suggest an intelligent predictive model which is Deep Neural Networks (DNN) with Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) to predict churn in banking settings. The model is conditioned on structured customer information such as demographic and transactional behavior, account tenure and financial metrics. To improve predictive reliability, preprocessing, like feature normalization and control of the imbalance of classes with SMOTE, is included.

The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 marked a significant reform in the Indian taxation system. GST replaced multiple indirect taxes levied by central and state governments and introduced a unified tax structure aimed at simplifying the tax regime, improving transparency, and creating a common national market. The reform has had a considerable impact on various sectors of the Indian economy, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and financial companies. MSMEs play a crucial role in economic development by contributing significantly to employment generation, industrial production, and exports. At the same time, financial institutions, including Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), play an important role in supporting MSME growth by providing credit and financial services. Therefore, understanding the effect of GST on both MSMEs and financial companies is essential for evaluating the broader economic impact of the reform. The main objective of this study is to compare the pre-GST and post-GST performance of MSMEs and financial companies in terms of profitability, compliance, and operational efficiency. The study also aims to evaluate the challenges and opportunities created by GST for MSMEs and financial institutions in India. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical research design and primarily relies on secondary data collected from annual reports, financial databases such as PROWESS and CMIE, government publications, and relevant academic literature. The period of study includes both pre-GST and post-GST years in order to assess the changes in business performance after the implementation of the new tax system. Various statistical tools such as descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were used to analyse the data. The analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicate that GST has improved tax transparency, increased compliance levels, and enhanced operational efficiency among businesses. Financial companies also benefited from improved documentation and financial reporting, which facilitated better credit assessment and lending decisions. However, the study also identifies certain challenges faced by MSMEs, including increased compliance costs, digital filing requirements, and working capital constraints during the transition period. Despite these challenges, the overall findings suggest that GST has contributed positively to the formalisation and growth of businesses in the long run. The study concludes that with appropriate policy support and simplified compliance mechanisms, GST can further strengthen MSME development and improve the performance of financial companies in India..

This paper examines loyalty ecosystems as distributed digital asset infrastructures whose balances, redemptions, and partner transfers generate exposure patterns comparable to those in financial services. A persistent security gap emerges when protections remain aligned with marketing-era assumptions while threat actors operationalize account takeover, API abuse, and coordinated fraud networks. The work proposes a financial-grade architectural framework that unifies identity assurance, transaction integrity, governance controls for privileged operations, telemetry-driven detection, and ecosystem-scale analytics. Analytical novelty rests on treating loyalty fraud as a custody problem with evidence-producing control loops, rather than a customer-service anomaly. The paper sets out to define a defensible reference architecture for loyalty platforms that interact with multiple partners, mobile channels, and high-velocity reward flows. The study uses comparative analysis of standards and incident findings, synthesis of risk-guideline structures, and security-architecture reasoning to derive control placement and measurable artifacts. The results support architects, security leaders, and program operators designing resilient loyalty value systems.

The exponential growth of digital financial services and blockchain technologies has reshaped the structure of modern economies. This study investigates the relationship between digital transactions, blockchain technology, and the growth of the digital economy in Nepal using time-series data obtained from Nepal Rastra Bank and the World Bank. The analysis employs summary statistics, correlation analysis, and the Ordinary Least Squares method. Given heteroskedasticity and serial correlation, heteroskedasticity- and autocorrelation-consistent (HAC) standard errors based on the Newey–West estimator are used. Blockchain readiness shows a positive but marginally significant influence, suggesting economic impact remains limited. In contrast, internet usage shows a negative and significant relationship with the digital economy. Overall, the findings suggest that Nepal’s digital economy is primarily transaction-driven rather than innovation-driven. The study offers valuable insights for building financial infrastructure and improving institutional readiness to accelerate digital technologies for sustainable economic growth.

Financial institutions play a significant role in supporting individuals and businesses by providing various financial services such as loans, credit facilities, and financial assistance. The present study titled “A Study on Financial Services Provided by Keerthana Finance in Jammalamadugu” aims to analyze the different financial services offered by the organization and to evaluate the level of customer satisfaction with those services.The main objective of the study is to understand the types of financial services provided by Keerthana Finance and to examine how effectively these services meet the financial needs of customers. The study also focuses on analyzing customer awareness, satisfaction with loan facilities, repayment structures, and the overall service experience.The research is based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire from customers who have utilized the services of Keerthana Finance in Jammalamadugu. Secondary data was collected from company records, books, journals, and relevant online sources related to financial services. A sample of 50 respondents was selected for the study.The collected data was analyzed using simple percentage methods and presented in tabular form for better understanding. The findings of the study indicate that most customers are aware of the financial services offered and are generally satisfied with the loan facilities and repayment options. However, some customers suggested improvements such as faster loan processing and competitive interest rates. The study concludes that improving service efficiency and maintaining strong customer relationships can further enhance customer satisfaction and organizational growth.

Purpose This study aims to explore paradox of in-existence in Islamic banking in Muslim-majority economies using Indonesia as a case study. The focus is on the situation where institutions exist formally but exhibit limited functionality, accessibility and socioeconomic impact. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-method exploratory sequential design was adopted by integrating Financial Services Authority financial data (2020–2024) with thematic analysis of 15 interviews and 12 media discourses using Gioia methodology. Findings The analyses showed three interrelated forms of in-existence which included institutional in-existence where physical structures and branch networks existed without ensuring equitable access, perceptual in-existence marked by weak brand differentiation and public skepticism regarding Shariah authenticity and digital in-existence characterized by slow financial technology (fintech) adoption and limited digital service integration. These dimensions collectively showed that the stagnation of Islamic banking originated from institutional inertia rather than theological constraints. Practical implications The improvement of Islamic banking legitimacy requires integrated efforts among regulators, industry leaders and society through digital transformation, financial literacy programs and governance reform to convert symbolic presence into functional performance. Originality/value This study introduces in-existence as a three-dimensional framework bridging institutional theory and Islamic marketing. The combination of financial indicators and interpretive insights bridges institutional theory and Islamic marketing scholarship in understanding legitimacy and inclusion gaps in Muslim-majority economies.

The digital payments adoption trends among customers of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and analyzes the factors influencing their usage of digital financial services. The research focuses on understanding customer awareness, accessibility, convenience, security perceptions, and satisfaction with digital payment platforms offered by IPPB. It also explores how demographic factors such as age, education, and income level affect the adoption and usage patterns of digital transactions among customers, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. The study highlights the role of digital payment systems in promoting financial inclusion and reducing dependence on cash transactions. It identifies key challenges such as lack of digital literacy, security concerns, and technological barriers that limit the effective use of digital payment services. The findings aim to provide insights for improving digital banking services, enhancing customer awareness, and strengthening policy measures to support the growth of digital payments under the guidance of Reserve Bank of India. Overall, the research contributes to understanding customer behavior and supports the development of efficient and inclusive digital payment systems. The rapid growth of digital payment systems has transformed the Indian banking and financial services sector. India post payments bank (IPPB), established with the objective of financial inclusion, plays a crucial role in promoting digital payments among rural and semi-urban populations

Purpose This study investigates the influence of digital entrepreneurship on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) development in South East Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive survey design was used. The sample size was determined based on the Borg & Gall formula, resulting in a total of 1,377 respondents. A structured questionnaire was developed and administered to 1,377 small- and medium-scale businesses cut across the States. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations, were utilized to summarize survey responses. The study also used multiple regression analysis for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Findings Findings revealed that e-commerce transactions and digital business model adoption significantly and positively impact SME development, while digital skills show a modest effect. Access to digital financial services is not statistically significant, indicating persistent barriers to financial inclusion. Human capital variables, particularly education, work experience and managerial competence, also emerge as critical enablers. The findings underscore the need for integrated digital and human capital strategies to enhance SME resilience and growth. These relationships are interpreted through social network, social capital and institutional theory to explain how digital tools interact with embedded SME systems in South East Nigeria. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature on digital entrepreneurship in emerging economies by disaggregating it into four key dimensions of e-commerce transactions, adoption of digital business models, extent of digital skill acquisition as well as determining the extent of access to digital financial services and empirically assessing their effects on SME development in South East Nigeria. The study offers actionable insights for policymakers, SME support institutions, fintech firms and digital skills providers by identifying which digital components most effectively drive SME growth in institutionally constrained environments.

ABSTRACT Neuromarketing is an emerging interdisciplinary field that combines neuroscience, psychology, and marketing to understand how consumers make decisions at a subconscious level. Traditional marketing research methods such as surveys and interviews often fail to capture the hidden emotional drivers that influence consumer behaviour. Neuromarketing overcomes these limitations by using scientific techniques such as Electroencephalography (EEG), Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), eye-tracking, and biometric measurements to study brain activity and emotional responses to marketing stimuli. Emotions such as trust, fear, happiness, excitement, and security play a crucial role in shaping consumer choices, especially in service-oriented sectors like banking and financial services. In India, leading banks such as State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank actively use emotional branding strategies to influence customer perception and loyalty. Keywords: Neuromarketing, Consumer Emotions, Banking Sector, Brand Trust, Emotional Branding, Customer Decision-Making

Employee retention and morale remain critical challenges for organisations in both public and private sectors globally. This study examines the role of Staff Solidarity Funds (SSFs) as innovative employee welfare mechanisms in enhancing organisational commitment and reducing turnover intentions. Drawing on evidence from successful implementations at major Rwandan institutions, including the Rwanda Military Hospital (RMH), Rwanda Energy Group (REG), Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC), University of Rwanda (UR), Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), and various government ministries. This research investigates how solidarity funds contribute to employee retention and workplace morale. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory and Organisational Support Theory, the study employs a qualitative case study approach, utilising document analysis and synthesis of institutional practices. Findings reveal that SSFs provide crucial financial support through low-interest loans, emergency assistance, and mutual aid systems, thereby creating reciprocal relationships between employees and organisations. The analysis demonstrates that these funds significantly enhance perceived organisational support, foster workplace solidarity, improve financial wellness, and strengthen organisational commitment. Key success factors identified include transparent governance structures, employee ownership and participation, accessible financial services, and integration with broader human resource management strategies. The study contributes to the literature on employee retention by providing empirical evidence of how solidarity-based welfare systems can address both economic and social needs of employees in developing country contexts. Practical implications suggest that organisations seeking to improve retention should consider implementing SSFs as part of comprehensive employee value propositions, particularly in environments where traditional benefits may be limited. The research proposes a framework for SSF implementation and recommends policy interventions to support the establishment and sustainability of such funds across public and private institutions.

This community service initiative was motivated by the rapid growth of Chinese investment in Lampung Province, which has generated new job opportunities in the financial services sector. However, this development has not been matched by the availability of human resources with basic Mandarin language skills. Responding to this need, a team of lecturers from the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Lampung, in collaboration with PT Maybank Sekuritas Indonesia, Lampung Branch, organized a Mandarin for Career training program for students and alumni of the Development Economics Department. The training was conducted through a one day in-person workshop followed by two weeks of online mentoring. The program covered theoretical foundations, practical conversation exercises, CV preparation, and mock job interviews in Mandarin. Evaluation was carried out using a pre-test, post-test, and participant reflections. The results show a substantial improvement in participants’ abilities, with the average score rising from 39 to 79. A total of 85% of participants were able to introduce themselves in Mandarin, and 70% could engage in simple workplace-related conversations. Beyond language competence, this activity also strengthened collaboration between the university and the industry while creating a talent pool of job-ready graduates. The training proved effective in enhancing graduates’ competitiveness and supporting regional economic resilience in an increasingly globalized era.

Ensuring the stability of the ruble is the Bank of Russia's primary function. However, its implementation is not backed by legal accountability measures. The Bank of Russia cannot be held legally or practically liable under civil or public law; its employees are not considered subjects of official misconduct; and the application of organizational and personnel measures (appointment and dismissal of Bank of Russia management) is politicized. This article proposes several solutions to these problems. It proposes replacing the absolute immunity of Bank of Russia employees and management with relative immunity - a more complex procedure for criminal prosecution. It also proposes creating a tripartite commission consisting of representatives of the state, the professional financial community, and consumers of financial services, which would have the authority to appoint and dismiss Bank of Russia management.

This case study examines Industrial Bank's innovative collaboration with Honor, a global tech company, to enhance green competitiveness through ESG-focused finance. Industrial Bank provided "financial + non-financial" services, including an internationally-aligned ESG governance framework and Shenzhen's first sustainability-linked loan. This loan incentivized Honor's clean energy and social accessibility targets via interest rate mechanisms. An empirical study of Chinese banks (2009-2023) confirms strong ESG performance positively correlates with financial outcomes. This model demonstrates how integrating green financial products with consulting services helps enterprises navigate global trade barriers, lower costs, and achieve sustainable growth, offering a replicable framework for the industry.

Financial inclusion remains a major challenge in developing countries, especially for women who often face barriers in accessing formal financial services. The rapid growth of digital payment systems such as electronic money (e-money) provides new opportunities for women's empowerment, but the level of adoption and sustainability of its use is not yet guaranteed. This study examines the role of local cultural values, particularly Tri Kaya Parisudha (Balinese Hindu philosophy regarding harmony between thoughts, words, and actions), in shaping women's intentions to reuse e-money in Bali, Indonesia. A survey was conducted on 400 female respondents in the Sarbagita region (Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, Tabanan) and analyzed using Partial Least Squares-based Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-PLS). The results show that Tri Kaya Parisudha does not have a direct effect on reuse intention, but it has a significant indirect effect through brand image. Religiosity was not proven to be a moderating variable. These findings emphasize the importance of brand image as a mechanism for translating local cultural values into consumer behavior in the context of digital finance. This study contributes to theory development through the integration of local wisdom with technology adoption models (TPB, TAM) and provides practical recommendations for policymakers, financial service providers, and women's empowerment programs.

This research paper discusses the interlink between digital transformation and sustained management practices in the services sector, with particular emphasis on the Indian financial system. It explores the way in which highly advanced digital technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Big Data Analytics, facilitate the aims of Environmental, Social, & Governance (ESG) criteria in emerging countries. The analysis adopted in the research paper involves a mixed research methodology to conduct a systematic review of current literature (2020-2025), with a complementation of the analysis with the data collected from ESG disclosure statement analysis among major financial institutions in the Indian context. The analysis also involves an analysis of the BRSR statement with support from thematic analysis derived from preparatory regulatory statements released by RBI, SEBI. Results clearly show that technological advancements have considerably improved the operational sustainability, financial sustainability, and transparency in Indian financial services. Digital Public Infrastructure, namely UPI & AA, has resulted in improving the social dimension of sustainability. New emerging failures, like digital pollution, cyber risk, and algorithmic bias, challenge the sustainability gap. From the findings, it is apparent that consideration among management paradigms to incorporate cyber sustainability is essential to achieve robust, sustained financial sustainability in the Indian context.

Purpose This study aims to reconceptualize digital financial inclusion as a dynamic, converging and inclusive transition rather than a static measure of access. Using comparative foresight evidence from Thailand and Vietnam, it investigates how digital finance, human capital and policy frameworks coevolve in shaping sustainable financial ecosystems. By analyzing post-pandemic and post-recovery data, the study seeks to identify distinct diffusion pathways and structural constraints influencing digital financial engagement. The purpose is to generate forward-looking insights for designing resilient, equitable and human-centered digital financial systems in emerging Southeast Asian economies. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a quantitative research design using two waves of microdata from the World Bank Global Findex Database (2021 / 2022 and 2024). Binary logistic regression is applied to examine the determinants of financial access and digital financial service usage. A comparative framework is adopted to evaluate Thailand’s bank-led digital evolution against Vietnam’s human capital–driven leapfrogging trajectory. The methodological approach integrates structural, behavioral and technological dimensions to generate forward-looking insights into the dynamics of digital financial transformation across both contexts. Findings The results reveal two divergent yet complementary pathways. Thailand has transitioned into a “post-access phase,” where account ownership is nearly universal, and the core challenges lie in improving service quality, efficiency and digital financial capability among vulnerable groups. Vietnam is in an “expansion and diffusion phase,” driven by younger cohorts and women who are increasingly bypassing traditional banking through mobile money. These trajectories illustrate a “converging inclusive digital transition,” reflecting the interplay of technological infrastructure, human capital and policy design in driving digital financial inclusion. Research limitations/implications The analysis relies on cross-sectional survey data, which limits causal inference and the ability to track individual behavioral trajectories over time. Country-level institutional nuances and policy interventions may not be fully captured through microdata alone. Nevertheless, the findings highlight structural and behavioral determinants that warrant deeper longitudinal and qualitative exploration. The study highlights the importance of future research examining the dynamic interplay between digital capability, human capital and institutional design in shaping inclusive financial ecosystems across emerging economies. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers seeking to strengthen digital financial inclusion. Thailand should prioritize enhancing digital capability among older adults and low-income populations while improving the quality and trustworthiness of digital services. Vietnam should continue leveraging its strong human capital base by expanding Mobile Money infrastructure and reducing access barriers for underserved groups. Both countries can benefit from integrating digital finance into broader development strategies, ensuring that technology diffusion aligns with human-centered financial empowerment. Social implications Digital finance holds transformative potential for reducing exclusion and enabling equitable participation in the economy. In Thailand, empowering marginalized groups through deeper engagement with financial services can enhance social mobility and resilience. In Vietnam, ensuring quality and sustainable usage can improve household security and well-being. Comparative insights demonstrate that inclusion is shaped not only by technology but also by cultural, behavioral and social contexts, underscoring the importance of tailored interventions. Originality/value This study delivers one of the earliest cross-country foresight analyses of digital financial inclusion in Thailand and Vietnam using post-pandemic Global Findex data. It introduces the concept of a converging inclusive digital transition, offering a forward-looking lens that integrates human capital, technology diffusion and institutional design. By moving beyond single-country approaches, the study contributes original theoretical insight and regionally relevant policy guidance. Its comparative framework advances understanding of how emerging ASEAN economies may chart inclusive digital futures, positioning digital finance as a transformative structural driver of economic participation and social equity.

The objective of this study is to analyze the factors that contribute to bank bankruptcy in Indonesia. The research utilizes data sourced from the financial statements of Indonesian banking institutions and applies the discriminant method to 43 banks over the period 2020–2024, as published by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and Bank Indonesia (BI). The findings of this study are expected to assist in preventing bankruptcy within the Indonesian banking sector by identifying factors that potentially lead to financial distress. Furthermore, this research is anticipated to provide valuable insights for bank managers, investors, and regulators. Financial ratios are employed to determine significant differences between bankrupt and healthy banks. Based on the results of this study and prior research, it can be concluded that the Altman model serves as an effective tool for banks to develop models that can predict their potential future operational risks.

Financial technology (FinTech) has emerged as an important force in advancing financial inclusion by providing services to individuals who were formerly outside the formal financial sector. In Nigeria, FinTech is anticipated to improve access, affordability, and the utilization of financial services among different socio-economic groups. This study evaluated the effectiveness of financial technology in fostering financial inclusion in Jos, Plateau State. The specific objectives were to analyze the influence of FinTech on access to credit, determine its impact on the utilization of financial services, and examine its effect on the cost of accessing financial services in Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were gathered from 400 FinTech users drawn from a population of 159,600 active users of mobile banking, agency banking, USSD services, and digital wallets in Jos North Local Government Area. Information collected through a structured questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including simple linear regression analysis. The findings showed that FinTech exerted a significant influence on access to credit, the utilization of financial services, and the cost of access. These results suggest that FinTech innovations have streamlined borrowing procedures, increased engagement with financial services, and lowered transaction expenses relative to conventional banking systems. The study concludes that FinTech plays a significant role in strengthening financial inclusion in Nigeria and recommends expanding digital infrastructure, enhancing financial literacy, and reinforcing consumer protection measures to support sustained growth in inclusive digital finance.