Financial Options Research Articles

A Comparative Perspective on Fee Policies Used in OECD Countries for Financing Higher Education

One of the biggest problems faced by countries globally is the financing of higher education. Especially in the face of increasing demand for higher education and limited public resources, countries are in need of reform in terms of financing higher education. In recent years, there has been a global trend towards the adoption of higher education financing strategies that focus on cost sharing. The purpose of this study is to examine the higher education financing policies of countries with different systems compared to Turkey, to address the financial challenges in Turkish higher education financing, to recognize alternative financing options and to suggest strategies for Türkiye to expand its financing sources. For this reason, the study is “descriptive” and the data on the countries are analyzed by using the “documentary scanning” method. A comparative perspective on higher education financing is presented by analyzing the current higher education financing policies in OECD countries and their current remuneration schemes. The study covers all OECD member countries. As a sample, the current state of financing models and fee structures in seven countries, including the United States, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Russia, the United States, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Japan and Russia, each with different higher education finance policies, are presented. In order to improve higher education financing in Türkiye, it is suggested that the “Income- Contingent Loan” method, which is offered to the student on an optional basis in the collection of debts in higher education financing systems, should be implemented as an alternative student borrowing method, even if it is not generally used in every country.

Are Shariah Banking Financing Patterns Procyclical?

The recent financial landscape has seen remarkable growth in Islamic banking and finance (IBF). This study investigates the impact of Shariah-compliant finance strategies on economic growth cycles in Asian & Gulf nations, specifically Indonesia, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait. Previous research on the relationship between Islamic financing and economic growth has yielded conflicting results. Data from 2013 to 2021 will be used, with GDP as dependent and various Shariah financing techniques as independent variables. Data is sourced from the IFSB database and the World Development Indicators. Regression analysis will assess the correlation between variables. Hausman test results indicate that the fixed effects model is the most appropriate choice for examining the pro-cyclicality of Shariah banking financing patterns in Asian countries. The findings suggest a significant influence of Islamic financing practices on Asian nations' economic growth cycles. The study emphasizes the importance of considering diverse funding options offered by Islamic banking to support economic growth and contributes to existing knowledge by shedding light on the effectiveness of specific funding strategies in stimulating economic growth. These insights can guide financial institutions and policymakers in leveraging Islamic finance to foster economic advancement.

Influence of Current Ratio, Net Profit Margin, Total Asset Turnover, And Debt to Equity Ratio on Share Prices in Manufacturing Companies in The Property and Real Estate Sector on The Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2021 Period

Numerous industries provide investors with various funding options in today's rapidly evolving business and technology landscape. One particularly intriguing area in this regard is investment. Investment refers to allocating cash into various assets for a specific duration to generate profits, such as income or capital appreciation. Infrastructure development has led to the management of several industries, including property and real estate. Property can stimulate other economic sectors by providing employment opportunities and enhancing overall societal well-being. This is further bolstered by the rapid growth of the property sector, driven by the consistent availability of land and the rising public demand for housing and office spaces. Based on the data results, it is evident that there was an upsurge in demand for property and real estate in 2019. In contrast, production was sluggish expansion across all industries during the Covid-19 pandemic. Share prices will rise with increased demand and fall with less demand. This is evident in the company's effective management of shareholders. Financial reports are crucial for the company's future. Financial report data can be utilized as a decisive factor in decision-making. By assessing the financial performance of PT. Alam Sutera Reality Tbk, PT. Bumi Serpong Tbk, and PT. Bekasi Fajar Industri Estate Tbk, investors can make well-informed investment decisions. The liquid or illiquid ratio, which is based on the company's debt-to-equity ratio, current ratio, net profit margin, and total asset turnover, can be calculated to complete this assessment.

LEVERAGING INTERNET OF THINGS IN 21ST CENTURY EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: GAINS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE DIRECTION

This paper examined the need to integrate Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into Nigeria's education system to help close digital divides between Nigeria and her advanced counterpart countries. The benefits, opportunities and challenges for integration of IoT were explored through the lenses of constructionism, connectivism and activity models. Possible technical, pedagogical, financial and social barriers that would face large-scale IoT adoption in schools were examined. To overcome these obstacles, the paper also examined the blended strategies including specialized learning hubs, cloud-sourcing models, mentorship networks, and crowd-computing. Collectively, these approaches could empower leveraging IoT for transformative, project-based connected learning through participatory knowledge-building. Potential navigational tactics were reviewed like contextualized training, activity groups for continual connections, and public-private partnerships to share infrastructure costs. The paper concluded that by guiding implementation with established theoretical models while pursuing innovative technical, economic and social strategies tailored to the local context, noting that Nigeria can successfully overcome barriers to leveraging Internet of Things for advancing 21st century teaching and learning outcomes. However, the paper also acknowledged the need for further research. Areas suggested for future exploration included longitudinal case studies evaluating impact of different infrastructure deployment and financing options. Large-scale surveys were proposed to understand evolving teacher perception and ongoing support needs. Finally, comparative analyses with other developing economies’ IoT integration pathways and best practices could provide valuable insights for optimizing Nigeria’s approach.

Financial assistance and payment plans for underinsured patients shopping for "shoppable" hospital services.

Recent price transparency laws are designed to better inform patients as they compare hospital options and "shop" for health care services. In addition to prices, underinsured patients seeking care need information on financial assistance, discounts, payment plans, and upfront payment requirements to compare the affordability of care across hospitals. Little is known about the availability of this information and the experience of prospective patients seeking it. We contacted a random sample of 10% of general short-term hospitals across the United States in this "secret shopper" telephone study to assess financial options and navigation challenges faced by underinsured patients in need of a non-emergency procedure. The administrative friction was substantial. Most hospitals have 3 siloed offices for (1) financial assistance, (2) payment plans and discounts, and (3) upfront payment requirements. All relevant offices were unreachable in 3 attempted calls at 18.1% of hospitals. Among hospitals with available information, the majority have financial options for patients: 86.7% of hospitals offer financial assistance and 97.0% of hospitals offer payment plans to underinsured patients for non-emergency care. The length and terms of payments plans varied widely for hospital-administered and third-party financing arrangements. Upfront payments were sometimes required, potentially posing barriers for patients without cash or credit access.

Abstract PS04-09: Patient-Reported Benefit of Resources Designed to Assist with the Financial Toxicity of Breast Cancer

Abstract Background: A breast cancer (BC) diagnosis can cause financial stress, which may worsen disease outcomes and create financial instability. Tailored interventions are urgently needed, but the patient perspective on the utility of financial resource options is limited. Methods: From 6-7/2022, Breastcancer.org community members consented to an online survey in English or Spanish. Eligibility included:US resident, age ³ 18, and BC diagnosis within 10 years. Survey assessed burden of out-of-pocket expenses and perceived benefit of available (1 “Not at all” to 5 “Very much”) and potential (ranked choice) resources. Results: 1,437 participated. Mean age and time since diagnosis was 46 and 2 years, respectively; 75% were in active treatment for non-metastatic (89%) or metastatic (11%) disease. Patients were 60% White, 27% Hispanic, 8% Black, and 4% other race; 94% were women. 47% had either “significant” or “catastrophic” financial burden due to BC, with higher burdens in those with metastatic disease (61% vs 45%, p< 0.001). Direct assistance programs (e.g., reduced cost medications, grants, transportation) were rated the most helpful to respondents (Table). A grant list, a provider question checklist, and access to professional advice were most often ranked as 1st choice for potential resources. There were significant differences by race/ethnicity and disease status. Conclusions: Almost one-half of surveyed patients had significant financial burden due to BC. Patient-centered solutions to lessen financial burdens and optimize patient outcomes should consider direct assistance and patient education to improve knowledge, communication, and self-advocacy. How helpful were/are each of these resources in helping you cope with the financial burdens of BC? Overall Mean Disease Status Race/Ethnicity Non-metastatic Metastatic White Black Hispanic Other Patient assistance programs offered by pharma or medical test companies 2.9 2.9 3.1* 2.9* 2.6 3.1* 2.6 (n=1,107) (n=975) (n=132) (n=618) (n=94) (n=357) (n=38) Nonprofits that provide grants to help cover expenses of people with cancer 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.8 2.6 3.1* 2.4 (n=1,113) (n=991) (n=122) (n=611) (n=100) (n=358) (n=44) Financial assistance department at the cancer center or hospital 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.7* 2.7 3.1* 2.2 (n=1,176) (n=1,046) (n=130) (n=669) (n=103) (n=362) (n=42) Coupons and savings cards to reduce the cost of prescription drugs 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.7 2.5 3.0* 2.5 (n=1,140) (n=1,008) (n=132) (n=648) (n=92) (n=358) (n=42) Programs that provide free or low-cost transportation to medical appointments 2.7 2.8* 2.4 2.6 2.5 3.0* 2.3 (n=1,042) (n=934) (n=108) (n=556) (n=93) (n=356) (n=37) Clinical trials 2.7 2.7* 2.5 2.6* 2.3 3.0* 2.1 (n=1,032) (n=928) (n=104) (n=557) (n=84) (n=357) (n=34) Professional medical billing advocates 2.7 2.7* 2.3 2.5* 2.4 3.0* 2.1 (n=1,105) (n=994) (n=111) (n=612) (n=94) (n=358) (n=41) Social worker or case manager 2.7 2.7 2.6 2.6* 2.3 2.9* 2.4 (n=1,146) (n=1,027) (n=119) (n=644) (n=99) (n=360) (n=43) Nonprofits that provide advice and education about financial issues 2.7 2.7 2.5 2.6* 2.3 3.0* 2.0 (n=1,100) (n=983) (n=117) (n=607) (n=96) (n=359) (n=38) Financial navigator 2.6 2.6 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.9* 2.1 (n=1,087) (n=976) (n=111) (n=598) (n=94) (n=356) (n=39) Which of the following programs and resources would have been (or would be) most useful to you in navigating the financial burdens of BC? Total Non-metastatic Metastatic White Black Hispanic Other (n=1,282) (n=155) (n=686) (n=121) (n=384) (n=64) A list of financial grants people diagnosed with BC can apply for 18% 18% 19% 19%* 24%* 14% 25%* A checklist of questions to ask your healthcare team to help you minimize the financial burdens of BC 15% 16% 12% 16% 17% 15% 9% Access to free or reduced-price professionals to help with medical billing, financial, benefits, and/or legal issues 13% 13% 8% 11% 8% 15%* 20%* * p< 0.001 Citation Format: Fumiko Chino, Sam Meske, Muath Giaddui, Donna-Marie Manasseh, Bridgette Thom, Marisa Weiss. Patient-Reported Benefit of Resources Designed to Assist with the Financial Toxicity of Breast Cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PS04-09.

Deterrents to the IoT for smart buildings and infrastructure development: A partial least square modeling approach

Implementing Internet of things (IoT) technology in the context of intelligent buildings and infrastructure development has garnered significant attention within the construction sector. Nonetheless, the implementation of IoT could be improved by assessing various barriers. The purpose of this study was to examine the obstacles related to the adaptation of IoT techniques within the construction sector, as well as the effects on the advancement of intelligent building and infrastructure systems. The study employed a mixed-method approach involving exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to determine six types of barriers: knowledge, technical, standardization, creativity, complexity, and economics. The study revealed that the implementation of IoT for developing smart construction and infrastructure in the construction sector was significantly influenced by all six constructs. The results of this study offer significant ramifications for the field. The study underscores the necessity for heightened consciousness and instruction regarding the advantages of implementing IoT. The study posits that the technical barriers, including interoperability, modernization of legacy infrastructure, and coordination and collaboration difficulties, require attention from the industry. The study highlights the significance of establishing industry-wide standards and protocols for implementing IoT and regulatory and legal frameworks. Finally, the study underscores the necessity for augmented funding and financing options for IoT endeavors. Subsequent study endeavors may expand upon the present findings by delving into the barriers encountered by alternative sectors and nations and assessing the efficacy of the suggested measures in this investigation.

Left Behind: Funding Climate Action in the Global South

Global clean energy transition envisions zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, as set by the United Nations. Consequentially, developed economies have made giant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving full decarbonization. However, the opposite remains true in the Global South, lagging in financing its climate action. Despite being disproportionately impacted by climate change, financial efforts by developed economies and the Global South have failed in placing the latter’s countries at par with clean energy investments of developed countries. Absent adequate financing of climate action in the Global South, the net zero goal will be nothing but a mirage. This Article contends that financial incapacity to finance climate change has left the Global South behind in the global energy transition movement and, if left unchecked, will sabotage global energy transition efforts. Using Africa as a case study, this Article explores the need to develop realistic financing options for global energy transition in the region. This Article recognizes that financing climate change is expensive and much more strenuous on African economies that barely have the fiscal infrastructure to finance the transition. It unpacks the extant climate financing avenues and the inherent challenges in attracting climate finance in Africa and argues for improvements.

EXAMINING THE DETERMINANTS OF VENTURE CAPITAL INVESTMENT SUCCESS IN START UP COMPANIES

The Indian startup scene has witnessed an unparalleled upsurge in recent times, garnering interest from both local and global quarters. The plethora of creative concepts, in conjunction with a favorable legislative framework and heightened accessibility to venture capital (VC) funds, has driven India to the forefront of the global startup investment landscape. In this ever-changing environment, it is imperative that researchers, practitioners, and policymakers alike focus on understanding the factors that influence venture capital investment success in Indian businesses. Especially in its early phases of development, venture capital, a type of private equity funding, is essential to the development and expansion of startups. In contrast to conventional funding options like public ownership or bank loans, venture capital offers not just cash but also industry contacts, mentorship, and strategic advice—all of which are crucial tools for start-up companies navigating the cutthroat business world. As such, the success or failure of venture capital investments has important ramifications for wider economic growth and innovation ecosystems, in addition to investors and entrepreneurs. With initiatives covering a wide range of industries, including technology, e-commerce, healthcare, finance, and agriculture, among others, India's startup environment is distinguished by its diversity and energy. The Indian startup scene is characterized by a diverse range of innovative and ambitious ventures, ranging from social enterprises tackling urgent societal concerns to disruptive technology firms upending conventional wisdom. But below all of this excitement are intricate dynamics and difficulties that influence how venture capital investments turn out. A variety of internal and external factors that interact in complex ways make up the multiple and multifactorial drivers of venture capital investment success in Indian businesses. The attractiveness of investment prospects and their potential for yielding returns are influenced by market factors, such as market size, growth potential, and competitive environment. Investors consider the caliber and competencies of the management team, which consists of executives, founders, and other important individuals, while determining the feasibility and expandability of businesses.

Assessing the Influence of Cost on the Implementation of Tetfund Projects in Selected Public Universities in Nigeria

The Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) strike in Nigeria has highlighted the need for improved funding options for public institutions, particularly in the education sector. A study on TETFUND projects in the Southeast found that project success and cost performance are crucial for building projects. The study used a census technique, questionnaires, and content validity to confirm the instrument's inclusivity and relevance to strategic leadership and project management sustainability. The study reveals that the cost of every project is important, regardless of funding, and that cost availability has hindered any TETfund project at State universities in South-East, Nigeria.The majority of respondents strongly agreed that cost determines whether a TETfund project is completed with or without a supervisor, and that cost gives contractors more chance of income during the TETfund project period. Furthermore, the cost of the project motivates workers to complete it within an appropriate period. The analysis shows that TETfund cost has a positive effect on the completion rate of projects across State Universities in SouthEast, Nigeria, with an average mean value of 3.65>3.00. The test of hypotheses showed that TETfund cost has no significant positive effect on the completion rate of projects across State Universities in South-East, Nigeria. The results showed that the model in this table has a statistically significant positive effect, and the alternate conclusion is accepted, as TETfund cost had a significant positive effect on the completion rate of the project across State Universities.

COVID 19 Vaccination implementation among preparatory school students in Akaki Kality Sub city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a global pandemic that has affected 229 countries and territories. Vaccines are one of the best ways to prevent and slow down transmission of COVID 19. Since students in school setting share teaching rooms, sport facilities, and other facilities like toilet and cafeteria, and have a higher number of social contacts, this study aimed to assess implementation of Vaccination against COVID 19 among preparatory school selected secondary preparatory schools in Akaki Kality Sub city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Descriptive cross sectional study design using multistage random sampling technique was conducted among secondary school students in Akaki Kality sub city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from March 01 – 25, 2023. A total of 349 students proportionally allocated to five schools in Akaki Kality sub city were interviewed and focus group discussion were conducted with five catchment health center immunization focal persons. In this study, preparatory students had 44.6% knowledge and 17.5% practice regarding COVID 19 vaccination. Religion, residence, and the educational level of students’ parent were found associated with students’ knowledge on vaccination against COVID 19. Previous COVID 19 illness and knowledge of students were found to be associated with students’ vaccination practice against COVID 19. In comparison to other studies, relatively limited knowledge and poor practice were observed. Knowledge was found to be associated with students’ practices indicating the need for strengthening behavioral, risk communication and community engagement activities using religious leaders and different communication platforms. Additionally, to address vaccine related shortages, partnerships should be strengthened at different levels to enable direct purchases, utilization of group financing and donation options.

Effects of Deposit Mobilization on Financial Performance (Profitability) of Microfinance Banks in Nigeria

The study examined the effects of deposit mobilization on the financial performance of microfinance banks in Nigeria between 2012 and 2021. The study employed real interest rate and gross capital formation as control variables. This study utilized the exploratory research design and the population of the study consisted of all the microfinance banks in Cross River State and Abia State. A purposive/judgment sampling technique was used. Data for the study were obtained from the annual reports of various microfinance banks in the selected states in Nigeria. Regression models were estimated and analyzed using panel random-effects, and fixed effects. From the result of these analyses, the findings of the research were summarized as follows: there was a positive and significant effect of the demand deposit variable on the financial performance of microfinance banks in Nigeria; there was a negative and significant effect of savings deposit variable on the financial performance of microfinance banks in Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that Commercial banks, and Microfinance banks in particular, should intensify efforts on deposit mobilization as one of their main financing options in the Nigerian financial system, as the study has confirmed that microfinance banks largely depended on deposits for financing their operations. Besides, banks should implement effective strategies promoting prize-linked-savings such as to mobilize more deposits from both the formal and informal sectors of the economy. Both strategies would enhance their profitability rating in the Nigerian banking environment in the years ahead.

Consumer-driven evaluation of assistive technology usage and perceived value in people with myositis in Australia.

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (known as 'myositis') are a group of rare sporadic inflammatory muscle disorders that significantly impact function and quality of life. There are no standardised approaches in the use of assistive technologies in myositis. This study was initiated to investigate current use and perceived value of assistive technology (AT) by people with myositis. A cross-sectional online questionnaire (Qualtrics) was designed to capture information regarding AT use and perceived value and demographic information from people with myositis across Australia. The questionnaire was distributed via the Myositis Association of Australia and specialist myositis clinics. Participants were asked to identify which AT items they owned and how frequently the item was used and to rate the 'usefulness' of those items. Information was also collected on participants' engagement with health professionals regarding assistive technologies. Consumer involvement via the Myositis Research Consumer Panel identified a knowledge gap regarding AT. The questionnaire was designed with consumer input and review. One hundred two people (102) with myositis completed the questionnaire. One hundred (100) participants owned at least one AT device, with a median of 12.5 items and a maximum of 65 items. The most used devices were associated with toileting, personal care and mobility. Participants rated AT devices relating to environmental support, sleeping, seating and body support as most useful. There was a positive correlation between disease duration and number of devices used (r2= 0.248, p= 0.012). Majority of participants (75.5%) were interested in talking to health professionals about AT; however, only 50% had done so. AT device usage is high among people with myositis, with most items deemed to be useful. Greater occupational therapy input into recommendations and potential funding options may improve knowledge and access to AT.

Probabilistic earthquake-tsunami financial risk evaluation for the District of Tofino, British Columbia, Canada

ABSTRACT Southwestern British Columbia in Canada has a high likelihood of facing significant earthquake threats in the future. It is exposed to significant seismic and tsunami hazards, originating from the Cascadia subduction zone and shallow crustal and deep inslab earthquakes. This study presents a new probabilistic earthquake-tsunami loss model for the Cascadia subduction zone by focusing on the District of Tofino, British Columbia. The earthquake occurrence and rupture models for the Cascadia subduction zone are developed by incorporating the time-dependency of earthquake occurrence and by adopting a stochastic source modelling approach, which allows for consideration of heterogeneous earthquake slip distributions. The results produce single-hazard and multi-hazard exceedance probability loss curves for earthquakes and tsunamis from the Cascadia subduction zone. In addition, earthquake risks due to other seismic sources are integrated with the multi-hazard loss curves due to the Cascadia events. In this way, a complete financial exposure from all major seismic and tsunami sources is evaluated. These loss curves can be used for determining the insurance rates for multi-hazard and multi-source risk coverage. The results are beneficial for providing more risk financing options via insurance against the future Cascadia and other seismic events.

Childhood disabilities and the cost of developmental therapies: the service provider perspective

ABSTRACT Purpose For children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (CWNDs), early diagnosis that leads to early intervention with regular targeted therapies is critical. In Qatar, private therapy centres that address this demand often have highly exclusive prices restricting families from availing them. This paper examines the challenges faced by families with CWNDs, as well as various financial and systemic obstacles, from the vantage point of these centres, all of which culminate in an extraordinarily high disability price tag for disability families in Qatar. Methods This study is based on qualitative, semi-structured, and in-depth interviews with private therapy centres and developmental paediatricians. Results Therapy centre representatives expressed common struggles in lengthy and cumbersome administration and licencing procedures, difficulty in hiring and retaining high quality staff, and expenses that need to be paid to the state. From their experience, families largely struggle with delayed diagnoses that significantly slow down intervention plans and therapies as well as staggeringly high financial costs with a dearth of funding options. Conclusions We recommend sincere engagement, dialogue, and cooperation between multiple stakeholders; a supportive ecosystem to balance and distribute the demand that includes schools and parents; as well more efficient administrative procedures and recruitment strategies.

Factors affecting financing of communal sanitation facilities by the public sector in Informal Settlements: A case of Nyalenda informal settlement, Kisumu City.

To close the current sanitation gap, public funding for sanitation has become increasingly insufficient, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. What is concerning in Kenya is not the large number of people who lack access to safe sanitation facilities, but the slow rate at which households can gain access to improved sanitation facilities. A sustainable financing strategy is required, one that will increase resource allocations to the sector, improve the efficiency and effectiveness of existing resources wherever they are found, and tap the potential of alternative financing mechanism. A critical review of policy documents like the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) shows that there is hardly any documentation on County sanitation plans. Once sanitation lacks in the CIDP, the county can hardly plan for the sector hence making the residents suffer. The study objectives are to examine different sanitation financing options for communal sanitation facilities in Nyalenda informal settlement, to assess factors affecting financing of communal sanitation facilities by public sector in Nyalenda informal settlement and to establish challenges of financing communal sanitation facilities in Nyalenda informal settlement. The study is a descriptive cross-section design. The study used closed and open-ended questionnaires and key informants’ interview in collection of data where n=400. The study established that the dominant communal sanitation financing option in Nyalenda informal settlement was personal contribution (56.0%), followed by NGO financing (40.3%), while the last was County Government financing (0.5%). Public-private partnerships played a crucial role in facilitating sustainable onsite financing for sanitation facilities as evidenced by majority of the respondents agreeing (35.75%). The study recommended the need for diverse financing sources, awareness of available options, and supportive policies to overcome financial challenges.
 

Ensuring Fairness: Strategies for Providing Affordable Housing for Low-Income Communities in Urban Indonesia

Indonesia's population growth has slowed, yet low-income people still require affordable urban housing. Land scarcity, limited financial options, and complicated home funding provide significant challenges. This study analyses existing literature to find ways to provide cheap housing to Indonesian middle-class residents. The study examines land use, financing, and cash availability. The findings show that MBR cannot get funding due to high costs and strict criteria, while the scarcity of urban land is hindering development. The analysis recommends using unused government land and promoting vertical housing to maximise land use, investigating microfinance and lease-purchase schemes, and simplifying housing fund access. These hurdles can be overcome to provide fair and affordable housing for all in Indonesia, promoting social stability and sustainable urban expansion.

CSP Design Study for Sandia National Laboratories and Kirtland Air Force Base

This report provides a design study to produce 100% carbon-free electricity for Sandia NM and Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB) using concentrating solar power (CSP). CSP plant designs of 50 MW and 100 MW are assessed to meet the electricity needs of Sandia NM and/or KAFB. Probabilistic modeling is performed to evaluate inherent uncertainties in performance and cost parameters on total construction costs and the levelized cost of electricity. Estimated annual electricity production was ~200 – 300 GWh for the 50 MW plant and ~400 – 700 GWh for the 100 MW plant. The overnight construction costs ranged between ~$300M - $400M for the 50 MW CSP plant and between ~$500M - $800M for the 100 MW CSP plant. The heliostat field was the most significant subsystem cost, followed by the thermal energy storage, power cycle, and fixed operation and maintenance costs. Other considerations such as land availability and permitting, funding options, and interconnections are discussed.

SME FINANCING THROUGH FINTECH: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF TRENDS IN NIGERIA AND THE USA

In this comprehensive review, we examine the burgeoning influence of Financial Technology (FinTech) on Small and Medium Enterprises' (SMEs) financing, with a focus on comparative trends between Nigeria and the USA. The paper aims to dissect how FinTech innovations have redefined the landscape of SME financing, facilitating enhanced accessibility and efficiency in financial services. Through an extensive literature review that spans academic journals, industry reports, and case studies, this study synthesizes current knowledge on the subject, offering a panoramic view of the FinTech ecosystem and its implications for SMEs in both developed and developing economies. Our analysis reveals that in the USA, FinTech has dramatically transformed SME financing by introducing alternative lending platforms, which provide more agile and less cumbersome financing options than traditional banks. This shift has not only improved the speed of funding but also expanded the availability of capital to a broader range of businesses. Conversely, in Nigeria, FinTech's impact is seen in the democratization of financial services, where mobile money and digital banking platforms have significantly increased SMEs' access to financial resources, overcoming historical barriers such as lack of collateral and banking infrastructure. The paper identifies key factors driving FinTech adoption in SME financing, including regulatory environments, technological advancements, and SMEs' growing demand for flexible financial solutions. It also highlights the challenges and opportunities inherent in leveraging FinTech for economic development and SME growth in both countries.
 Conclusively, the study underscores the transformative potential of FinTech in bridging the financing gap faced by SMEs, while also pointing out the necessity for supportive policies, digital literacy, and infrastructure development to fully harness FinTech's benefits. This review contributes to the ongoing dialogue on FinTech's role in economic empowerment, offering insights that could inform policymakers, practitioners, and researchers interested in the nexus between technology and small business financing.
 Keywords: Internet of Things (IoT), oil industry, efficiency, innovation, sustainability, challenges, strategies, emerging trends, cross-country collaboration, USA, Nigeria..

Adapting fiscal strategies to energy and food price shocks in Portugal

Economies that are dependent on imported inputs are vulnerable to external shocks affecting international prices. Although the effects of these shocks have been widely documented in the literature, strategies to effectively mitigate them remain underexplored. Using a recursive-dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, we examined the impact of global energy and food price shocks on the Portuguese economy. Moreover, we evaluated fiscal policies aimed at mitigating these impacts by boosting consumption through wage increases, cash transfers, consumption subsidies, and revitalizing economic activities with reduction in production tax. The findings suggest that reduction in production tax is the best mitigation option, as it directly improves sectoral competitiveness, promotes employment, and stimulates consumption. In contrast, a consumption-focused fiscal strategy is costlier and exclusively enhances household purchasing power. Notwithstanding, raising wages inadvertently worsens persistent inflation due to increased production costs and demand. Exploring various financing options is necessary to assess policy effectiveness and consistency over time.