Profitable Strategy Research Articles

Valuation Strategies for Series A Startups

Tech startups are a vital part of today’s digital world. They represent innovation, transformation and a step towards a more advanced world. But securing external funding is as vital as building the right product. Series-A funding is one way of getting the required monetary help to keep a startup afloat during the initial times. The funding provides enough support to transform the minimum viable product into something scalable and fit for the use of a larger audience. Hence, the purpose of this research is to identify key factors that impacts the valuation of startups looking forward to raise series A funding. A comprehensive analysis was done on the factors like EBITDA, revenue growth, customer retention, operational efficiency, growth and profitability and management strategies. About 100 emerging Pakistani tech-startups were surveyed to make this research significant and more than half were aged between 1-3 years. The statistical results suggest that revenue and growth, high profitability and appropriate management strategy contributes in increasing the overall valuation of startups that are seeking Series-A funding whereas customer retention and operational efficiency does not guarantee a bigger cheque from the investors.

Farmer-supermarket direct purchase model: considering power asymmetry

PurposeFarmer-supermarket direct purchase (FSDP) is one of the significant innovative modes in the circulation of agricultural products. The previous studies on the FSDP mode were mainly premised on the assumption of power symmetry among cooperative players. Nevertheless, in reality, power asymmetry often exists among players because of restricted coalitions and diverse input resources. In this research, the influence of power asymmetry on profit distribution among various players in FSDP is explored.Design/methodology/approachThe power asymmetry within FSDP is explored in two aspects: the distinct status of coalition structure and the varying degrees of dependence among players. Since FSDP is a typical cooperative mode, an average tree solution (abbreviated as “A-T solution”) of a cooperative game with a restricted coalition structure and the tripartite mutual deterrence model with a dependency factor are analyzed. Subsequently, the corresponding profit distribution strategies of FSDP are provided.FindingsThis research demonstrates that the cooperative coalition structure and/or location and the degree of dependence on other players can affect their profit-earning capacity during the FSDP process. Furthermore, the players' ability to distribute profits is negatively associated with the degree of interdependence (dependency factor). It is shown by the fact that cooperatives are at the center of FSDP, as farmers in China are a dispersed and powerless group; in a word, the FSDP supply chain is a restricted coalition structure. Even in an arbitrary coalition structure, farmers still remain in a weak position and lack the power of speech in the distribution of profits. Therefore, enhancing the position of farmers is necessary to stabilize cooperative relationships in supply chains.Research limitations/implicationsThese methods have broad potential applications to research power asymmetry in supply chain management. However, it is only applicable in situations where significant information on alliance structure and the dependence degree is available.Originality/valueThis study concentrates on the factors of power asymmetry and investigates the influence of power asymmetry on the profit distribution among players, thereby expanding the depth and width of the research on FSDP. The key contribution of this paper lies in explaining the “unfair” profit distribution scheme in FSDP from coalition cooperative game and bargaining game theory (a mathematical perspective). It provides a decision-making basis for enhancing the overall position of farmers in the agricultural supply chain.

Impact of the Financial Shock by COVID-19 on Profitability and Sustainable Strategies of Chinese Commercial Banks

Impact of the Financial Shock by COVID-19 on Profitability and Sustainable Strategies of Chinese Commercial Banks

Strategic Priorities for Developing the Marketing of Pomelo Oranges (Citrus maxima Merr.): A Case Study in Magetan Regency, Indonesia

Magetan Regency is the main production center for pomelo in Indonesia with total production reaching 244,395 quintals per year. Despite the high output of pomelo oranges in Magetan Regency, they still need to improve their marketing process. The purpose of this research is to analyze the priority of choosing the best strategy to develop a marketing strategy for pomelo oranges in Magetan Regency. The analysis method uses the Analytic Network Process (ANP) with Super Decision Software. Data collection uses journal reference methods, observations, interviews, and questionnaires to people who are experts in the field of pomelo oranges to obtain data/information regarding criteria, sub-criteria, and alternative solutions that will be analyzed later. The experts are the Head of the Horticulture Division from the Food Crops, Horticulture, Plantation, and Food Security Department, Magetan Regency; pomelo orange farmers in Magetan Regency; and representatives of Field Agricultural Extension Officer Sukomoro District, Magetan Regency. The results of the analysis using the ANP method, lead to the right and best decision in terms of selecting a profitable marketing strategy for pomelo citrus farming in Magetan Regency, namely post-harvest quality improvement. These results can be used as the best alternative because they meet the criteria and sub-criteria above, namely managerial capabilities, customer linking capabilities, market innovation capabilities, human resources assets, and reputational assets.

A profitable currency portfolio strategy: learning from connectedness

A profitable currency portfolio strategy: learning from connectedness

Evaluating Technical Trading Strategies in US Stocks: Insights From Data-Snooping Test

Our comprehensive evaluation examines the in-sample and out-of-sample effectiveness of technical trading strategies for Apple Computer Inc (AAPL), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), and Nvidia Corp (NVDA) over the period from January 2000 to December 2022. Utilizing advanced methods such as reality checks and stepwise tests, we address the potential data-snooping bias—a scenario where apparently profitable strategies might arise by chance rather than through genuine predictive accuracy. Despite rigorous analytical techniques, our findings indicate an inability to identify any technical trading strategies that yield consistent profits in both the in-sample and out-of-sample periods. Further analysis, with a specific cutoff established in February 2016 and incorporating corrections for data snooping, consistently demonstrates the unprofitability of these strategies. This highlights a significant challenge in financial markets: the intrinsic difficulty in identifying technical trading strategies that can consistently produce profitable outcomes over time. Our conclusions underscore the complexities inherent in technical analysis and the substantial obstacles in deriving actionable insights for stock market trading based on technical trading frameworks.

Training on Beverage Cost Calculation at Class 2 Correctional Facility Batam

This Community Service Program (PKM) aims to enhance the skills of inmates at Lapas Class II Batam in calculating the production costs of beverages. These skills are essential to prepare them for entering the workforce or starting small businesses in the beverage sector after completing their sentences. The training involved lecturers from Politeknik Pariwisata Batam who provided practical knowledge on various components of production costs, such as raw material costs, labor costs, and operational expenses. Inmates were also taught how to determine profitable selling prices and strategies for efficient business management. The training methods included theoretical sessions, practical simulations, and interactive discussions to ensure a deep understanding among participants. The results of the training showed a significant improvement in the inmates’ understanding of production cost management. They were not only able to accurately calculate costs but also grasped financial management concepts that support small business operations. The sustainability of this program is supported by strong collaboration between Politeknik Pariwisata Batam and Lapas Class II Batam, as well as the provision of adequate facilities for training. With the integration of this program into the correctional facility's activities, it is expected that the training will continue and provide long-term positive impacts. In conclusion, this beverage production cost training plays an important role in empowering inmates with relevant skills, helping them adapt to the workforce, and opening up future business opportunities.

PREDICTING INDONESIAN CONSUMERS ACCEPTANCE AND USAGE TOWARD AR/VR IN LIVE COMMERCE OF BEAUTY PRODUCTS

This research aims to address the challenges associated with the application of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in live commerce for cosmetic products, focusing on the perception of consumers in Indonesia who are still very early or still in the awareness stage of the acceptance and/or application of AR/VR technology in online shopping. The study employs a positivist scientific method to systematically investigate the external variables influencing the adoption of AR and VR technologies in the live commerce beauty industry, identifying five significant determinants: Content Relevance, Performance Expectancy, Hedonic Motivation, Personal Innovativeness, Social Media Influence, and Trust. Effort Expectancy and Trust did not significantly affect Behavioral Intention, while Consumer Readiness (CR) positively affected Behavior Intention (BI), indicating that informed consumers are more likely to adopt AR/ VR technologies when exposed to social media influence. The findings suggest several strategies for businesses to enhance consumer adoption, with the goal of converting viewers into buyers. Additionally, developing frameworks to measure the return on investment (ROI) of AR integration in e-commerce could provide valuable insights for businesses, justifying investments and refining strategies for sustainable profitability.

The Sustainable Fashion Value Proposition of Companies Identifying with the Zero Waste Movement

Characterized by inexpensive and readily available products, fast fashion has increased the consumption and disposal of clothing, for which criticism has been significant due to its negative environmental and social impact. Therefore, transitioning to sustainable business models (SBMs) that balance profit with corporate social responsibility (CSR) is critical. This study explores sustainable value propositions in Polish Zero Waste fashion businesses, addressing the gap in research on SBMs. It also employs the theory of organizational paradoxes to examine tensions between profit maximization and CSR. Data were collected from 249 Polish Zero Waste companies listed on mapazerowaste.pl and analyzed through content analysis and statistical methods. Additionally, 21 YouTube videos from 2020 to 2022 were examined to study sustainable fashion promotion. Multiple coding and categorization schemes were used to identify themes, followed by frequency analysis and correspondence analysis. Second-hand clothing emerged as the most common value proposition (120 companies), reflecting consumer trends in resale. The repair sector with cobbler and leather repair services (55 companies) also showed a strong presence, highlighting demand for tailoring and upcycling services Rental services (2 companies) remain niche due to limited consumer acceptance. Promotion efforts on YouTube focus on building awareness of fast fashion’s impacts and teaching sustainable behaviors. Sustainable value propositions, exemplified by Polish Zero Waste businesses, synthesize profit and CSR strategies, addressing organizational paradoxes. These findings inform strategies to balance financial and socio-environmental goals, with implications for policy and practice in advancing sustainable fashion.

The economic optimum mob size at lambing for triplet-bearing Maternal and Merino ewes across southern Australia

Context Lambing triplet-bearing ewes in smaller mobs significantly increases lamb survival. Aims This paper reports economic analysis to assess the optimum mob size for triplet-bearing ewes during lambing. Methods The analyses considered scenarios for Merino and non-Merino (Maternal) flocks where producers subdivided lambing paddocks using permanent fencing or where ewes were re-allocated within existing paddocks on the basis of pregnancy status. Key results The optimum mob sizes for triplet-bearing ewes during lambing were affected by ewe breed, stocking rate, lamb price and the target return-on-investment if subdividing paddocks. The optimum mob size for triplet-bearing Maternal and Merino ewes was between 27% and 40% of the optimum for twin-bearing ewes and this was similar for scenarios where paddocks were subdivided, or where ewes were re-allocated within existing paddocks. At the standard lamb price of AUD$7/kg carcass weight, the economic return from adjusting the relative mob size of triplet-bearing ewes was AUD$2.05 per multiple-bearing or AUD$14.20 per triplet-bearing Maternal ewe and AUD$0.54 per multiple-bearing ewe or AUD$5.70 per triplet-bearing Merino ewe. Conclusions Overall, these analyses demonstrated that reducing mob size at lambing can be a profitable strategy for improving survival of triplet-born lambs, depending on the current size of lambing mobs. Implications As reported previously for single- and twin-bearing ewes, it is difficult to provide generic recommendations to producers for the optimum mob size of triplet-bearing ewes at lambing because optimum mob size was dependent on several enterprise-specific factors.

Financial Risk Management in Global Supply Chains: Strategies for Resilience and Profitability

Supply chains of the global economy are wedded to financial risks such as exchange risk, political risk, risk of variation in regulation, and risk of economic cycles. Mitigating of these risks is very crucial so as to guarantee the organization’s stability and its ability of making profits. This research paper analyses the measures that organizations have taken towards buffer financial threats in international supply systems. It explores the risk identification, risk evaluation and risk mitigation measures; that include, financial risk management, supplier diversification, application of IT and jointly managed risk-bearing structures. Importantly, the study also includes the discussion of the use of innovations, including blockchain and predictive analytics, in increasing positive financial reporting and better predicting necessary decisions. Examples of supply chain risk management solutions are discussed through various company examples and best practices. The case study lends credence to managing the financial risks in supply chain planning and realistic, responsive approaches to perpetuating profit margin in the unstable global economy. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper adds value to existing literature by offering specific recommendations that can be implemented by practitioners and policymakers to enhance supply chain manageability and affordability.

Study on the Progress of Profitability Strategy and Innovation of Traditional Radio Stations in the New Media Era

With the rapid development of new media, traditional radio stations are facing many challenges such as audience loss, increased competition for content, and changes in profit models. This study reviews the progress of profitability strategies and innovation of traditional radio stations in the new media environment, and analyses the conceptual framework of media convergence and its impact on radio stations. In today's era of rapid development and emergence of new media technologies, radio stations are facing a number of challenges, especially in the control of content quality, regulatory issues, changes in profitability models, as well as content innovation and technology application, radio stations have to actively seek a variety of coping strategies. To effectively adapt to these changes, broadcasters must make necessary adjustments and improvements to remain resilient in an increasingly competitive environment. In addition, this paper does not only discuss the current situation, it actually mentions some potential directions for future research, which may include the study of how radio stations can carry out effective transformation strategies in different cultural contexts, as well as the various applications that new technologies can play in radio stations

Penny-Wise Acumen in Costonomics: Transforming Costs into Entrepreneurial Gold Through Smart Financial Management

This research demonstrates that penny-wise acumen in costonomics can lead to significant financial gains, transforming costs into entrepreneurial gold for enterprises. The study aims to explore how effective financial management, through the application of cost management factors, can convert costs into entrepreneurial opportunities and drive long-term business sustainability. The research utilized exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA), along with reliability analysis (Cronbach’s alpha), employing SPSS and AMOS software to examine the relationships between critical cost management factors. The findings reveal strong correlations among these factors, each playing a vital role in optimizing cost efficiency and enhancing business performance. Cost Management Effectiveness (CME) emphasizes clear cost structures, supplier evaluations, and overall cost control. Strategic Cost Management (SCM) focuses on identifying cost drivers and benchmarking against industry standards to uncover cost reduction opportunities. Cost Optimization Mastery (COM) involves monitoring production costs and assessing cost quality to ensure financial stability, while Cost Management Policy (CMP) stresses the importance of robust policies and employee engagement in controlling costs. Lastly, Cost Management Vigilance (CMV) highlights the need for the active monitoring of variable and overhead costs to maintain financial discipline. This research underscores that businesses in the manufacturing, hospitality, and commercial sectors can successfully leverage these cost management practices to foster competitive entrepreneurship and sustainable growth. Future studies should explore the role of emerging technologies in cost management to uncover new strategies for profitability and sustainability.

Pengaruh Profitabilitas, Leverage, dan Ukuran Perusahaan Terhadap Nilai Perusahaan

This study aims to analyze the effect of profitability, leverage, and company size on company value, focusing on companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Using data from 2023, this study applies a quantitative method with multiple linear regression analysis. The results of the analysis show that profitability as measured by Return Of Equity (ROE) has a positive and significant effect on company value, which means that companies with high profitability tend to have better market value. Conversely, leverage as measured by Debt to Equity Ratio (DER) shows varying results; although in some cases it has a positive effect, there are also findings that indicate that leverage does not always increase company value significantly. Company size, as measured by total assets, does not show a significant effect on company value in this context. This indicates that although company size can provide greater access to capital, other factors such as profitability and debt management strategies are more important in increasing company value. This study provides important insights for investors and company managers to understand the key factors that affect company value, and highlights the importance of focusing on profitability and wise debt management in their business strategies.

The performance of equity funds-of-funds in Brazil

This study aims to evaluate the performance of equity funds of funds (FOFs) in Brazil. First, panel regressions were used to identify the determinants of returns and value creation associated with FOFs. We then estimate the probability of FOFs outperforming mirror and master funds and their corresponding determinants. Finally, FOF indices are constructed and their performance is analyzed against the backdrop of the BOVA11 exchange-traded fund (ETF). The results of this research indicate that the determinants of returns are aligned with the Fama-French ‒Carhart factors, all of which have positive coefficients. However, equity FOFs exhibit lower returns than other equity funds and destroy value relative to mirror and master funds. FOFs are associated with lower risks owing to diversification effects. In terms of probability, equity FOFs are not more likely to achieve superior returns than other funds. During the 2015 economic crisis in Brazil, FOFs were associated with higher probability. Finally, the FOF indices suggest profitable strategies that focus on factors such as size, growth, and liquidity.

PASS: Portfolio Analysis of Selecting Strategies on quantitative trading via NSGA-II

Quantitative trading, driven by technological advancements, utilizes machine learning and mathematical models to develop trading strategies. Evaluating strategy performance through backtesting is common, but ensuring sufficient funding and stability is crucial. Portfolio construction mitigates risk and promotes sustained profit growth. This article introduces the portfolio analysis of selecting strategies (PASS) model, integrating a stability indicator, ‘drawdown duration’ (DDD) and multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs). Results demonstrate that PASS reduces DDD risk by 73.9% and increases profit by 4.1% compared to other MOEAs. The model is applied successfully to trading markets like the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and the Mini Dow Jones Industrial Average (YM), aiding investors in crafting profitable strategies and managing risk in leveraged trades.

More cost-effective strategy for 3D printing: technology upgrading or material recycling?

PurposeThis study addresses the challenge of generating material waste from support structures in 3D printing manufacturing and aims to explore more cost-effective manufacturing strategies for 3D printing manufacturers by considering two strategies: technology upgrading and material recycling.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines the optimal decisions for manufacturers under each scenario (including a benchmark model and models for the two strategies) and explores the most profitable strategy by comparing the optimal profits of the manufacturer and analyzing the impact of key factors.FindingsThis study reveals that the choice of the optimal manufacturing strategy depends on the cost coefficient of technological effort and the fixed cost associated with introducing material recycling. In addition, it finds that material recycling is particularly effective in enhancing consumer surplus.Practical implicationsThe analysis provides an important basis for decision-making for 3D printing manufacturers considering technology upgrading and material recycling, which can not only enhance economic benefits but also contribute to the sustainable advancement of 3D printing technology.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to focus on the adverse effects of support structures in 3D printing manufacturing and systematically explore the economic feasibility of improving this issue through both technology upgrading and material recycling.

Insider filings as trading signals — Does it pay to be fast?

Insider filings as trading signals — Does it pay to be fast?

Influence and Predictive Value of Seeking Alpha Articles

We find that recommendations issued by Seeking Alpha authors can affect trading activity substantially, which makes them an interesting source of information for retail and professional traders alike. A recommendation’s chances to become influential in this sense are greater for more accessible articles and depend on characteristics that are observable without reading the text. This result is in line with the existence of processing costs, as Seeking Alpha community members might be unwilling to spend much effort reading full articles and instead use superficial criteria to decide which articles to follow. Article features that are consistent with a detailed, in-depth analysis provide more valuable mid- to long-term investment advice. However, the immediate reaction from readers to such articles appears to be less pronounced. We provide evidence for potentially profitable investment strategies based on those article features.

THE EFFECT OF TANGIBLE ASSETS AND GREEN INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL ON PROFITABILITY: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF ESG PERFORMANCE (STUDY ON GO PUBLIC COMPANIES IN INDONESIA)

Integrating sustainable practices into business strategies is essential for enhancing economic performance and mitigating environmental impacts. In Indonesia, where economic growth and environmental sustainability are critical, this study examines the impact of tangible assets (TA) and green intellectual capital (GIC) on the profitability of publicly listed companies. The research investigates how tangible assets and green intellectual capital influence company profitability through the mediating role of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) performance. The study uses a dataset of 363 observations from 122 companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2020 to 2023. Path analysis is employed using RStudio to examine the relationships between tangible assets, green intellectual capital, ESG performance, and profitability (measured by ROA). The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between tangible assets and ESG performance, indicating that companies with substantial tangible assets are better equipped to implement sustainable practices. However, GIC does not show a significant direct impact on ESG performance or profitability (ROA). The mediation analysis underscores the critical role of ESG performance in enhancing profitability, demonstrating a significant positive effect on ROA. This suggests that ESG practices are essential in translating tangible and intellectual resources into financial gains. Despite the non-significant direct effects of GIC, its contribution through improved ESG performance highlights the importance of integrating green intellectual capital into corporate strategies for long-term profitability and sustainability. These findings offer valuable insights for corporate managers and policymakers, emphasizing the need for investments in tangible assets and green intellectual capital to foster sustainable practices and improve financial outcomes. The research underscores the importance for companies to focus on corporate social responsibility, environmental, and governance practices. Implementing ESG concepts helps companies build a good reputation, attract investors, achieve operational efficiency, and ensure long-term sustainability. This study supports the implementation of robust ESG frameworks to achieve both economic and environmental goals.