Gap In Market Research Articles

Children and the Remaining Gender Gaps in the Labor Market

The past five decades have seen a remarkable convergence in the economic roles of men and women in society. Yet, persistently large gender gaps in terms of labor supply, earnings, and representation in top jobs remain. Moreover, in countries like the United States, convergence in labor market outcomes appears to have slowed in recent decades. In this article, we focus on the role of children and show that many potential explanations for the remaining gender disparities in labor market outcomes are related to the fact that children impose significantly larger penalties on the career trajectories of women relative to men. We document that, in the United States, more than two-thirds of the overall gender earnings gap can be accounted for by the differential impacts of children on women and men. We propose a simple model of household decision-making to motivate the link between children and gender gaps in the labor market, and to help rationalize how various factors potentially interact with parenthood to produce differential outcomes by gender. We discuss several forces that might make the road to gender equity even more challenging for modern cohorts of parents, and offer a critical discussion of public policies that seek to address the remaining gaps. (JEL D13, J12, J13, J16, J22, J31, J71)

Empowering Home Buyers: A Data-Ddriven Approach to Real Estate Pricing in Ames, Iowa

The demand for both housing and investment real estate has significantly increased due to rising urbanization and growing household savings. To address the need for operable real estate pricing models, this study explores potential variables affecting the sale prices of properties in Ames, Iowa, from 2006 to 2010. Utilizing data mining techniques and regression analysis, this study develops a model incorporating 12 independent variables that can be easily obtained during property visits. By offering an easily appliable tool, this research enables potential home buyers to estimate property sale prices, even without extensive expertise in Data Science, Investment, and Economics. The findings demonstrate that analyzing 12 variables directly related to the property itself such as interior finish of the garage, foundation material, and remodeling date can explain approximately 85.2% of the variance in sale prices. Empowering consumers with this knowledge can help reduce the information gap in the real estate market and promote informed decision-making in property purchases.

Does digital inclusive finance matter in sustainable tourism development at the county level? Evidence from the Wuling Mountain area in China

AbstractAs a new financial instrument under the strategy of digital economic development, digital inclusive finance has become an effective way to fill the market gap that exists in traditional finance. Inclusive financial resources are needed for tourism development and recovery in less‐developed regions, especially in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Understanding the impact of DIF on tourism development is the key to promoting high‐quality economic growth in China. Although previous studies have explored the factors influencing tourism development, the effect of DIF on sustainable tourism development is still at its earlier stage and is not well researched. Therefore, this study aims to explore the direct impact of DIF on tourism development and examines whether there is threshold effect. Based on panel data from 63 counties in the Wuling Mountain Area, China, from 2014 to 2019, this research applied a series of panel regression models to explore whether the DIF can promote sustainable tourism development. The results indicate that the DIF plays a positive role in improving sustainable tourism development. Considering regions, types of counties, and different dimensions of the DIF, there are differences in positive effects of DIF on sustainable tourism development. The impact of DIF on tourism development is dynamic and non‐linear. Finally, practical implications for enhancing the promotion and development of DIF and achieving sustainable tourism development are discussed, particularly for less‐developed regions.

Research on the data platform needs of university faculty and students

In todays world, big data permeates every industry, leading to a substantial increase in research data and driving the scientific paradigm towards data-intensive research. With the development of intensive research, the demand for data processing and analysis is growing, particularly pronounced in the fields of research and management in universities. Currently, education in China is transitioning from informatization to digitization to enhance the quality of education, research by faculty and students, and the overall operational quality of schools, thereby achieving high-quality development in higher education. Digitization has become a crucial innovative path for the modernization of education in China and is an important strategy for building a high-quality education system. However, many university teachers and students still face challenges such as time-consuming and labor-intensive data processing, lack of relevant technical expertise, and difficulty in seeking guidance from professional experts. At the same time, the number of professionals in the big data industry is gradually increasing, and they aspire to enhance their professional skills through practical experience, earn additional income, but lack suitable avenues. To address these market challenges and pain points, fill market gaps, promote the academic and research capabilities of university faculty and students, improve personnel management efficiency, and advance scientific research in China, this survey is conducted to propose practical and feasible suggestions and actively engage in implementation.

Research on the data platform needs of university faculty and students

In todays world, big data permeates every industry, leading to a substantial increase in research data and driving the scientific paradigm towards data-intensive research. With the development of intensive research, the demand for data processing and analysis is growing, particularly pronounced in the fields of research and management in universities. Currently, education in China is transitioning from informatization to digitization to enhance the quality of education, research by faculty and students, and the overall operational quality of schools, thereby achieving high-quality development in higher education. Digitization has become a crucial innovative path for the modernization of education in China and is an important strategy for building a high-quality education system. However, many university teachers and students still face challenges such as time-consuming and labor-intensive data processing, lack of relevant technical expertise, and difficulty in seeking guidance from professional experts. At the same time, the number of professionals in the big data industry is gradually increasing, and they aspire to enhance their professional skills through practical experience, earn additional income, but lack suitable avenues. To address these market challenges and pain points, fill market gaps, promote the academic and research capabilities of university faculty and students, improve personnel management efficiency, and advance scientific research in China, this survey is conducted to propose practical and feasible suggestions and actively engage in implementation.

Demographic crisis in Japan

Demographic problems in the XXI century affect many modern states. In relation to each country, they have a certain character and have their own characteristics, based on the established traditions, the level and quality of life of the population, socio-economic indicators, social support of the population of the country from their governments. On the one hand, the problem of overpopulation is characteristic of the modern stage of human development. Individual States are characterized by a demographic explosion (India, countries of the African continent). Other states are experiencing a demographic crisis. This article examines the situation of the demographic crisis in Japan. Japan often attracts attention to itself by taking non-trivial decisions at the government level to solve problems of a socio-economic nature. In this regard, the purpose of the article was a comprehensive study of the demographic structure of the land of the rising sun, demographic trends, features of the demographic situation, as well as state policy measures to overcome the growth of demographic problems. The author investigates the main causes of the demographic crisis in Japan, the peculiarities of pension provision, the problems of population aging, poverty, and the peculiarities of the labor market in Japan. It is shown that the increase in the number of foreign labor did not fill the gap in the labor market. Therefore, the Japanese authorities plan to raise the retirement age and introduce a number of incentive measures for companies working with the elderly. The gradual aging of the population is just one of several unfavorable demographic trends in Japan. Another problem of no less concern to the authorities of this country is the phenomenon of «lone parasites». In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of crimes committed by elderly people. The data regularly published by the Japanese Statistical Office confirms the surprising trend of a very rapid increase in the number of prisoners of both sexes over 65 years of age. The article uses a variety of sources — media materials on the problem under study, scientific articles of researchers directly and indirectly devoted to the consideration of topical issues and problems of a demographic nature. The article makes extensive use of publicly available statistical data.

The role of information in the gender gap in the market for top managers: Evidence from a quasi‐experiment

AbstractResearch SummaryThis study examines the role of information in the gender gap in the executive labor market from the market frictions perspective. I ask whether increases in objective and reliable information about managerial quality close the gender gap in career advancements. To obtain exogenous variation in the availability of information, I exploit a natural experiment provided by the adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in 2005 by the European Union countries. I find that when reliable and objective information is more available, women executives are more likely to be hired away with promotion than men, especially from high‐performing firms. However, the gains in advancement rates are dampened in regions where societal views on women in the workplace are less favorable.Managerial SummaryBridging opportunity gaps for underrepresented groups remains a significant challenge for firms and policymakers. This research investigates the role of transparent financial disclosures by firms in closing the gender gap in executive promotions. Utilizing the adoption of the IFRS in EU countries, the study finds that women executives are more likely to be hired away with promotion than men, especially from high‐performing firms. However, less favorable societal views about working women weaken these effects. The study suggests that firms can leverage informational asymmetry in the labor market to access high‐quality managerial resources. Concurrently, firms must be cognizant of how financial regulations may affect their competitive edge in the executive talent market and adjust their internal retention policies accordingly.

Endogenous Labor Supply in an Estimated New-Keynesian Model: Nominal versus Real Rigidities

The deep deterioration in the labor market during the Great Recession, the subsequent slow recovery, and the missing disinflation are hard to reconcile for standard macroeconomic models. We develop and estimate a New-Keynesian model with financial frictions, search and matching frictions in the labor market, and endogenous intensive and extensive labor supply decisions. We conclude that the estimated combination of the low degree of nominal wage rigidities and high degree of real wage rigidities, together with the small role of pre-match costs relative to post-match costs, are key in successfully forecasting the slow recovery in unemployment and the missing disinflation in the aftermath of the Great Recession. We find that endogenous labor supply data are very informative about the relative degree of nominal and real wage rigidities and the slope of the Phillips curve. We also find that none of the model-based labor market gaps are a sufficient statistic of labor market slack, but all contain relevant information about the state of the economy summarized in a new indicator for labor market slack we put forward.

Operation Principles of the Industrial Facility Infrastructures Using Building Information Modeling (BIM) Technology in Conjunction with Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE)

The current industrial facility market necessitates the digitization of both production and infrastructure to ensure compatibility. This digitization is presently accomplished using Building Information Modeling and digital twin technologies, as well as their integrated usage, which enhances convergence and adds further value to facility assets. However, these technologies primarily focus on the physical components of industrial facilities, neglecting processes, requirements, and functions. To address these gaps, the inclusion of the Model-Based System Engineering approach, a proven benchmark in systems engineering, is essential. This inclusion is the main objective of this research. This article outlines methods and principles for integrating Model-Based System Engineering into the informational modeling of existing industrial facilities to address current market gaps. It offers practical steps for such integration and compares it to other methods, positioning Model-Based System Engineering as a pivotal tool for enhancing the value of industrial facility digital assets. The main findings include the proposal of BIM and MBSE integration, which aims to create a competitive advantage for industrial facilities by improving customer service and operational efficiency, requiring collaboration from various stakeholders.

Impact of social media influencers' credibility on millennial consumers' green purchasing behavior: a concept paper on personal and social identities

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide the theoretical insights with regard to the green purchasing intention–behavior gap and the role played by social media influences in abating this gap. This paper takes into consideration a wider aspect with regard to the antecedents of behavioral intention through personal and social identities in place of the antecedents presented in the theory of planned behavior and social-identity theory. Furthermore, as the theories lack an explanation of how to reduce the intention–behavior gap, this paper also argues the source credibility model (SCM) in explaining the impact that social media influences can have on the behavioral gap. Design/methodology/approach Hypothetical deductive method is proposed for this concept paper under the positivism research paradigm. Findings Not applicable as this is a concept paper. However, the paper discusses the theoretical and managerial implications. Research limitations/implications This is a concept paper. Yes this paper discusses the theoretical, managerial, and social/ecological implications. Practical implications This paper highlights the relevance of consumers' personal and social identities when consumers make purchasing decisions regarding green products. How managers can make marketing strategies, based on credibility model, involving social media influences as product endorsers and ambassadors, as well as the policy makers to design products, earmark consumer behavior and to conduct marketing campaigns in time to come. Social implications As to how policies can be designed and adopted for bio-based economies where sustainability and circularity are given priority and to increase the attention of businesses moving toward sustainable practices. Originality/value Original thought developed based on research, theoretical and market gaps.

Addressing soft skill gaps in the digital employment market: the case of Spanish students in a technology-based university

PurposeIn today's ever-evolving digital job market, soft skills are increasingly important for university students to succeed in their future careers. This study identifies the soft skills that universities should prioritize the most due to their significance in the digital employment market.Design/methodology/approachUsing natural language processing (NLP) techniques, this study analyzed 226 student writings that described their experiences of failure in academic, personal and professional settings. Zero-shot classification was utilized to identify the presence of soft skills and sentiment analysis was used to determine the expressed sentiment toward these skills.FindingsThe findings suggest that students are most deficient in social intelligence, stress management and self-intelligence skills, which are essential soft skills for success in academic and professional environments and for the transition to the digital employment market.Research limitations/implicationsThe article acknowledges limitations related to the writing proficiency of resumes from a few non-English speaking students and the potential influence of students' emotional states on the content of their writings.Practical implicationsThe study provides valuable insights into the soft skills that are mostly lacking among university students and their significance in the digital employment market.Originality/valueThe study highlights the importance of universities in promoting and practicing essential soft skills and sheds light on the issue of soft skill deficiency among university students. Educators can use these insights to develop strategic proposals aimed at promoting the acquisition of key soft skills among students. The study provides valuable insights into the soft skills that are mostly lacking among university students and their significance in the digital employment market.

Can network analysis identify market problems in quasi‐markets? A proof‐of‐concept study on the National Disability Insurance Scheme

AbstractThe use of markets has a long history in the delivery of social services. Market‐based arrangements are used worldwide with the goal of increasing choice, efficiency, and cost effectiveness in public service delivery. However, government‐run markets or ‘quasi‐markets’ do not behave as regular markets and therefore require interventions and stewardship in order to function efficiently and meet the social goals they aim to achieve. We assess the usefulness of functional network analysis (FNA) (a form of social network analysis) for identifying market gaps and market failure in quasi‐markets to assist governments in their stewardship roles. We test the utility of this approach within an Australian quasi‐market for disability services, where data were collected via surveys with disability providers in two case study sites. In this proof‐of‐concept study, data were analysed using FNA techniques. We find that FNA techniques can generate insights to identify quasi‐market problems. We find that FNA can be augmented with organisational characteristics such as size, profit margin, and ‘for profit’ status, enabling evaluation of the potential risks occurring within a particular quasi‐market structure.Points for practitioners Functional network analysis provides a method for identifying thin markets in quasi‐market systems such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Authorities have not made data available regarding NDIS thin markets, so this research conducts a survey to replace data; however, the survey is incomplete and so must only be used as a proof of concept for the functional network analysis method. Functional network analysis provides promise for identifying thin markets in the NDIS.

Gender Wage Gap in Indian labour Market and Role of Government Policies: A Theoretical Perspective with an Empirical Overhaul

"The long-lasting practice of wage gap against female labour forces in the Indian labour market has been dealt with in this paper by the help of building up a general equilibrium framework along with capturing the issue by econometric analysis. It is the women labour force associated with informal sector as casual labour who suffer the most from this problem. The recent statistics even show a falling trend of female labour force participation in these sectors also. Our study traces through the causes behind such wage discrimination and the possible ways of coming out of it. We have found that investment in female human capital development actually helps women to forego present employment opportunities in low-skilled, low-wage sectors, rather encourages the to be more productive and efficient by means of more human capital and enter the labour market in future with no such wage discrimination, in practice. Such trends, observed in India actually glorifies the success of several Government Policies, such as “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao”, implemented for female human capital development. Falling trend of female labour force in informal economy is actually enabling them to enter the formal economy at par with their male counterparts. Our theoretical findings have been supported by our econometric analysis based on the application of Oaxaca-Blinder model and PLFS unit level data of 2021-22. It suggests the higher women are educated as well as skilled, the lower is wage gap they face and more equal is the pay-structure even in the informal economy. Hence, it is the success of government policies directed for development of human capital in women that we have started to observe. The study strongly recommends implementation of many more such women-centric programme that would strengthen the women socially as well as ensure equality for them at the workplaces."

The Mediating Effect of Financial Distress on the Relationship between Profitability and Value of Listed Non-Financial Firms in Nigeria

This study examined mediating effect of financial distress on the relationship between profitability and firm value. The prior studies have focused on the FND and firm value, individually. To date, relatively little research has been conducted in this area, the current study would like to investigate this issue and fill such a research gap in Nigerian capital market. The study used listed non-financial services firms in the Nigerian Exchange Group for the period 2011 to 2020. Purposive sampling technique was used in the study. The study used 72 firms out of the 113 non-financial services firms that were listed for the period under study. The descriptive statistics, correlation and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were used as techniques for data analysis while Monte Carlo model was used to determine the level of significance of the indirect effects. The study found that profitability has positive and significant effect on value, as well as financial distress of listed non-financial services firms in Nigeria. Financial distress has negative and significant effect on firm value. Finally, financial distress partially mediates the relationship between profitability and value of listed non-financial service firms in Nigeria. Hence, the study recommends among others that listed non-financial service firms in Nigeria should put profitability into consideration as it may the effect of profitability reduce financial distress and increase the value of their firms.

Fabrication and characterization of SiC-based transparent passivating contacts for enhanced photovoltaic performance

Silicon Carbide (SiC) passivating contacts are thought to be an emerging solution to bridge the existing gap in the silicon-based solar market. Passivating contacts directly tackle the intrinsic metal-semiconductor interfaces issues like recombination losses and Fermi-level pinning. Considering this approach, SiC-based Transparent Passivating Contacts (TPC) are fabricated on n-Si <100> using RF magnetron sputtering at multiple RF powers for enhanced solar cell performance. All said contacts were convolved through a variety of optical, and electrical techniques. It is confirmed that the passivating contacts grown by higher RF power have an enhanced provision for both transmission and contact passivation. Additionally, it has been found that a sufficient amount of oxygen vacancies (VO) are located at the SiC/Si interface and are mainly responsible for limiting of the contact passivation. This issue might be resolved by opting for larger RF power during the SiC growth that may suppress VO impact. Further, purely optical and electro-optical parameters and their dependence on VO have been readily studied. Most importantly the extent of contact passivation has been readily measured by the transient of photo voltages and Q-DLTS techniques and cross-verified by current kinetics studies. It is found by the current-voltage and energy band picture that the SiC grown at higher RF would provide better contact passivation with surface resistance of ∼109 Ω and positive trap centers, respectively.

Reformen bei Elterngeld und Ehegattensplitting könnten gleichstellungspolitische Impulse setzen

Abstract Germany is characterised by large gender gaps in the labour market. Both the gender pay gap as well as the gender gap in working hours are among the highest in Europe. Family policy reforms such as increasing the parental leave period that is ear-marked for fathers as well as reducing the high marginal tax rates for secondary earners resulting from the joint taxation of married couples with full income splitting (“Ehegattensplitting”) could help to mitigate the existing gender gaps in the labour market. These reforms are also paramount due to the increasing labour scarcity stemming from the demographic change.

Shecession: The Downfall of Colombian Women During the Covid-19 Pandemic

This article explores the short-term effects of the COVID-19 crisis on gender gaps in the Colombian labor market. Colombia offers an interesting case for analysis because, as with most countries in the Global South, its combination of formal and informal labor in the labor market complicates the pandemic’s aftermath. This analysis highlights the differences between men’s and women’s labor outcomes in terms of the effects of the crisis. Specifically, the study documents a phenomenon that the authors call a “female fall,” by which, in comparison to men, women lost status in the labor market. This article also shows a downgrade in the condition of women who remained employed via lower wages, especially in the informal sector. As a result of the pandemic, increasing numbers of women were relegated to domestic work. Finally, the article discusses how women’s burden of unpaid care increased. HIGHLIGHTS In Colombia, COVID-19 hit women workers harder than men due to sectoral differences and domestic duties. Lockdown imposed a high caregiving burden that mostly fell on women. Women were more likely to drop out of the labor force to devote themselves to care work, reversing progress toward gender equality. Women were more vulnerable to precarious work conditions and lower wages. Ongoing recovery needs to better address the gendered impact of pandemic.

Entrepreneurial Opportunity Recognition: A Study on Theoretical Exploration

Entrepreneurial opportunity recognition, a critical precursor to the startup process, is a complex phenomenon influenced by a multitude of factors. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the theoretical frameworks that underpin entrepreneurial opportunity recognition. Drawing on cognitive, resource-based, effectuation, and network theories, we examine the intricate interplay of cognitive processes, resource leveraging, decision-making principles, and social networks in shaping how entrepreneurs identify and capitalize on opportunities. The cognitive approach highlights the role of perception and intuition, showcasing how entrepreneurs draw connections between disparate information to identify market gaps. The resource-based view emphasizes the strategic deployment of unique resources and capabilities, illuminating the link between competitive advantage and opportunity recognition. Effectuation theory introduces a dynamic perspective, where entrepreneurs use their existing means to co-create opportunities amidst uncertainty. Network theory underscores the significance of social networks in uncovering novel opportunities, revealing the importance of weak ties and network structures. The factors influencing entrepreneurial opportunity recognition span individual traits and characteristics, environmental cues, cognitive biases, and heuristics. We delve into how personality traits, risk tolerance, and expertise shape an entrepreneur's lens. Environmental factors, including industry trends and regulatory contexts, create windows of opportunity that entrepreneurs can leverage. Additionally, cognitive biases such as overconfidence and confirmation bias either aid or hinder the recognition process. Practical implications emerge for aspiring entrepreneurs and ecosystem supporters. Tailoring education and training to enhance creativity, risk assessment, and cognitive awareness can foster more effective opportunity recognition. Moreover, vigilance in monitoring industry trends, anticipating market gaps, and understanding economic and cultural contexts can enhance an entrepreneur's ability to spot emerging opportunities. This exploration prompts future research inquiries into the interplay between multiple theoretical perspectives and the evolving nature of opportunity recognition. As entrepreneurial landscapes continue to evolve, understanding these theoretical frameworks equips entrepreneurs with a comprehensive toolkit to navigate the intricate terrain of opportunity recognition and seize the untapped potential within the business landscape.

Research as A Veritable Tool for Enhancing Students' Job Creation in the 21st Century University Education

This study explores the role of research as a tool for enhancing students' job creation in the context of 21st-century university education. The survey research design was the approach used for this investigation. The researcher created a questionnaire to collect pertinent data for the study from 200 respondents. The questionnaire was duly validated by 3 experts. The internal reliability of the instrument was examined in this study using Cronbach's alpha (α). Cronbach's alpha method is able to determine the correlation between the outcomes of each test item and the test's total score. Google Forms was used to deliver the survey to the respondents electronically. A statistical package was used to calculate the mean and standard deviation. The study hypotheses were also investigated using inferential statistics (t-test) with 198 degrees of freedom and a 0.05 threshold of significance. To determine whether to accept or reject the null hypothesis, the critical value and estimated t-value are compared. Findings suggest that research-oriented education positively impacts students' ability to create job opportunities in the 21st century. Engaging in research projects fosters critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability among students, enabling them to identify and capitalize on emerging trends and market gaps. Furthermore, the study reveals the significance of university-industry collaborations and mentorship programs in enhancing students' entrepreneurial skills and connecting them with practical resources and networks. The implications of this research are significant for educational policymakers, university administrators, and curriculum developers, as it underscores the importance of incorporating research as an integral component of 21st-century university education.

Design optimization and comparative analysis of hypoallergenic muffins to wheat muffins and nutritive improvement using Moringa leaves powder

PurposeGluten is a triggering factor for gluten-related disorders. However, the present market provides expensive, less varied and poor nutritional products. Therefore, this study aims to develop gluten-free muffins and improve their nutritional profile, as well as evaluate the physical, chemical and sensorial aspects of them.Design/methodology/approachA combination of pearl millet, buckwheat and amaranth was used to formulate gluten-free muffin using central composite rotatable design of response surface methodology for optimization of selected parameters (hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose [HPMC], baking temperature and baking time). The optimized muffins were incorporated with Moringa leaves powder. Finally, the final products were compared with the wheat muffins.FindingsThe optimization range of selected variables was 1% HPMC, 170°C baking temperature and 30.33 min baking time with a desirability function of 0.75. The incorporation of 5% Moringa leaves powder enhanced the nutritional profile of gluten-free muffins – increased protein (38%), fiber (208%), iron (224%) and calcium (25%) values. However, the overall acceptability reduced due to decrease in flavor and odor.Originality/valueNonetheless, the ease of accessibility of these convenience gluten-free muffins as well as the nutritional density can help the food research and nutritionists to bridge the gap in current gluten-free market. This puts focus on the use of underutilized crops such as millets and buckwheat which are nutritionally dense.