Diversification Strategies Research Articles

Landscape metrics as predictors of water-related ecosystem services: Insights from hydrological modeling and data-based approaches applied on the Arno River Basin, Italy

The study addresses the challenge of integrating complex landscape-hydrological interactions into predictive models for improved water resource management. The aim is to investigate the effectiveness of landscape metrics—quantitative indices measuring landscape composition and configuration—as predictors of WES in the Arno River Basin, Italy. Utilizing two hydrological models alongside a random forest algorithm, we assessed spatial and temporal variations in water yield, runoff, and groundwater recharge. The findings indicate that landscape metrics derived from high-resolution land use data significantly impact WES outcomes. Specifically, the models demonstrated average landscape metric importances of 16.8 % for spatial and 17.8 % for temporal predictions concerning runoff. For water yield, these averages were 32.9 % spatially and 43.5 % temporally, while groundwater modeling showed importances of 14.09 % spatially and 33.8 % temporally. Key landscape metrics identified include the core area index for broad-leaved forests and the perimeter-to-area ratio for non-irrigated agricultural areas as critical spatial and temporal predictors of water yield and groundwater recharge. Thresholds were observed, indicating landscape configurations that minimize hydrological variability. For instance, runoff variation is minimal when the landscape exhibits high forest fragmentation (over 1000 coniferous patches), low aggregation (aggregation index <75), and reduced connectivity (cohesion index under 80). Similarly, groundwater variation is minimized with decreased boundary length of vegetation patches (perimeter-to-area ratio <0.8), agricultural lands (perimeter-to-area ratio under 1), and the presence of low core agricultural areas (core area index above 8). The identified thresholds could inform land-use policies, such as targeted afforestation or crop diversification strategies, to optimize WES provision.

Analysis of Financial Performance of Yunnan Baiyao Group Co.

Yunnan Baiyao Group Co., Ltd. has been actively expanding its business territory and product lines, led by its diversification strategy, thus achieving remarkable financial results. The company has also used scientific asset management strategies to optimize the allocation of resources and enhance the efficiency of asset utilization, while efficient operations have provided solid support for its diversified growth. However, the implementation of a diversification strategy also introduces specific financial risks and challenges. Increasing financial pressure and intensifying market competition have gradually emerged, which require Yunnan Baiyao Group Co., Ltd. to continuously improve its financial structure and strengthen risk management to ensure the durability and profitability of its strategy. This article not only comprehensively analyzes the financial performance of Yunnan Baiyao Group Co., Ltd. in implementing its diversification strategy, but also deeply discusses the challenges faced by the group and its corresponding response strategies, which provides valuable reference and far-reaching insights for other enterprises in adopting similar strategies.

DYNAMIC LINKS BETWEEN COMMODITY MARKETS &amp; PAKISTANI SECTORAL INDICES: IMPLICATIONS FOR PORTFOLIO DIVERSIFICATION

This research aimed to examine the inter-connections among international commodities markets and sectoral indices of Pakistan over the most recent period ranging from July 19, 2016, to December 29, 2023. This time period is selected based on recent important events of global significance including COVID-19 pandemics and recent geopolitical crisis emerged due to Russia-Ukraine war in Feb, 2022. This study is utilizing Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model for the deeper inquiry of interplay among the variables. The findings of the study indicate significant spillovers among variables with varying degrees of significance. The results show that various sectors of Pakistan economy showed asymmetric behavior indicating that some sectors were the risk transmitters while other were risk recipients. Moreover, volatility linkages are time-varying with heightened transmissions during turbulent periods. The results provide the significant information in reaching the desired conclusion and making decisions. The findings of study thus had important implications for investors (individual &amp; institutional), fund managers and policy makers while devising strategies for diversification and risk mitigation in the Pakistani context especially in stressful periods.

COVID-19 pandemic, household welfare and diversification strategies of smallholder farmers in Uganda

Agricultural activities in many sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries are subject to various risk factors that the COVID-19 compounds. Earlier studies on the effect of COVID-19 on smallholders neglect the issue of comparison with non-farm households. The study uses micro-level household datasets to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on household welfare, with a focus on farm households relative to their non-farm counterparts. We employed a binary probit model and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach and demonstrated that farm households witnessed important income reductions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda. The study contributes to the design of evidence-based approaches to reducing farmers’ vulnerabilities to agricultural risks and pandemic-related shocks.

Risk Management in Product Diversification: The Role of Managerial Overconfidence in Cost Stickiness—Evidence from Iran

Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between product diversification strategy and cost stickiness, focusing on managerial overconfidence as a moderating factor. It aims to address a critical gap in the literature by providing empirical insights grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, specifically examining firms listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange. Methodology: Utilizing a sample of 149 companies from the Tehran Stock Exchange in Iran spanning from 2015 to 2021, this study tests two hypotheses: (1) a positive relationship between product diversification and cost stickiness and (2) the amplification of this relationship by managerial overconfidence. Product diversification is quantified using the Herfindahl Index, while managerial overconfidence is measured through an investment-based index derived from capital expenditures. Cost stickiness is assessed by analysing the asymmetric behaviour of costs in response to changes in sales, focusing on how costs tend to remain high even when sales decrease. Findings: The empirical results substantiate both hypotheses, demonstrating a significant positive relationship between product diversification strategy and cost stickiness. Furthermore, managerial overconfidence amplifies this relationship, highlighting the role of internal resources and managerial perceptions in shaping cost behaviour. Originality: This study contributes substantially to the literature by being among the first to empirically examine the interplay between product diversification strategy, cost stickiness, and managerial overconfidence. Extending the RBV theory to cost behaviour and strategic management provides novel insights for scholars and practitioners in entrepreneurship, corporate strategy, and organizational behaviour. The findings underscore the importance of strategic choices and managerial traits in determining cost stickiness, offering valuable implications for financial analysts, auditors, and stakeholders.

An evaluation of the footprint of diversification strategy in the tourism sector: a global perspective

ABSTRACT For the first time, the relationship between tourism market diversification and a comprehensive measure of environmental degradation – ecological footprint, has been examined in this study. Using a Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) framework, additional explanatory variables have been recognised in the analysis. A recently introduced quantile regression approach has been used to investigate the differential impacts of tourism market diversification in 94 host countries, during 1995–2018. The findings suggest that tourism market diversification generates more ecological footprint in the countries. An examination of the relationship has been further conducted with the countries divided into different income clusters. It is shown that tourism market diversification generates a lower ecological footprint in low-income countries. In lower middle-income countries and upper middle-income countries, tourism market diversification generates a greater ecological footprint. Tourism market diversification does not significantly affect the ecological footprint in high-income countries.

Do planning practices hinder on-farm diversification in peri-urban Mediterranean France?

At the crossroads of spatial planning and agriculture, this article explores how planning practices impact on-farm diversification strategies in peri-urban Mediterranean France. It focuses on farm building permit applications, statistically analyzing a database of 860 buildings applied for and interviewing local authorities and farmers’ representatives. Results show the large proportion of applications related to reterritorialization of food systems, development of recreational activities, and production of green energy. These on-farm diversification trends highlight the transformation of peri-urban areas from a natural or agricultural landscape into a multifunctional landscape, posing several planning challenges. Planners don’t know how to assess whether a new building is really essential for farming, or to find the right trade-offs to support farming dynamics while limiting soil sealing. Their assessment criteria generally favor large, full-time, and economically viable farms. Comparing two provinces’ planning practices, we observe significant differences in interpretation of national law, with incoherent or unharmonized criteria applied especially when assessing professional farming activities, new dwellings, and solar energy projects. We also highlight two potential obstacles to farmers’ generational renewal and agroecological or food transitions: i) lack of transparency regarding the rules and the decision-making processes behind building permit assessment, and ii) the frequent rejection of applications for multi-purpose premises and lightweight, mobile, or dismantlable structures. Such results point to the role of planners in transforming peri-urban landscapes and the need for more consistent regulation of new farm buildings, supporting and not hindering farm adaptation strategies and the multifunctionality of peri-urban areas.

Diversification strategies for indirect real estate. Intersection of business, economics, and society in shanghai mixed-use developments

This study examines the impact of large mixed-use developments on the financial performance of publicly listed real estate firms in Shanghai from 2009 to 2019. The research uses a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) approach, considering 14 key performance indicators (KPIs) across three categories: Corporate and Financial Information, Strategy Indicators, and Specifics of Mixed-Use Development. The article analyses the performance of large, listed investors on the Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore Stock Exchanges, providing insights into their evolution over the past decade. The literature review highlights the relationship between companies’ performance and corporate finance, capital structure, and financial ratios. It identifies an existing gap in research related to mixed-use assets and indirect real estate. By using the MCDM framework, the study evaluates these assets and provides actionable insights for global investors, asset managers, and developers, helping them make informed decisions in indirect real estate investment. The findings contribute to understanding investment strategy formation in dynamic real estate markets and support informed diversification and urban policy development. This paper offers a useful appraisal framework for future MCDM risk assessments, assisting stakeholders in navigating the complexities of the real estate landscape in one of the world’s foremost metropolitan hubs. It also offers recommendations and insights on best practices for global listed firms while providing a framework for future research in the field of property investment.

Economic validation and comparison of microbial tryptophan, erythritol and collagen production in an integrated sugarcane biorefinery

Low sugar prices present a significant challenge to the global sugarcane industry, prompting the exploration of diversification strategies for expanding product portfolios. Techno-economic analyses and environmental sustainability assessments were carried out to evaluate the microbial production of tryptophan, erythritol, and collagen from A-molasses in a biorefinery annexed to an existing sugarcane mill. Tryptophan production exhibited the highest profitability, with a minimum selling price (MSP) at 59.7 % of its current market price, although the achievable production volumes of tryptophan from one sugar mill would oversupply the global market. Due to the larger market size of for collagen the achievable production capacity in the collagen scenario would avoid market saturation, reducing the risk of oversupply and rendering it more economically viable. In contrast, erythritol production was marginally not profitable, with an MSP exceeding the current market price by 1 %, primarily attributed to high operational costs. All scenarios demonstrated relatively low greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (ranging from 9.1 to 16.5 kg CO2eq/kg product), with tryptophan production emerging as the most environmentally favourable option due to minimal chemical and freshwater usage. When compared with literature-reported data on ethanol and short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS), only collagen and ethanol production were deemed viable, based on their favourable profitability and contribution to the market.

Enhanced electric vehicle battery management system employing bat algorithm with chaotic diversification strategies

AbstractAs the demand for electric vehicles (EV) continues to increase, the need for effective charging and switching of battery systems becomes more important. This article presents a method using the Bat Algorithm (BA) improved by chaotic diversification as well as social education to optimize the power source replacement and the electric vehicle charging procedure. The plan is intended to solve the issues of payment delay and battery management failure. The algorithm searches for better positions by combining chaotic diversity, while social learning supports the coordination of battery stations. Thanks to extensive simulation and real‐world testing, our approach shows significant improvements in optimization and a reduced payback period. The results show that the suggested approach outperforms the current algorithms in terms of rotation speed and good solution. This research supports the development of efficient transportation by providing practical solutions to increase the efficiency of electric vehicle transfer and payment and ultimately encourage greater effort.

Analisis Strategi Pengembangan Bisnis dengan Pendekatan Bisnis Model Canvas (BMC) dan SWOT

Cinnamonstory.id is a handover and dowry decoration business that was formed in 2017. The purpose of this study is to analyze the mapping of the 9-element Business Model Canvas (BMC) business model with SWOT analysis (trends, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats), and formulate a business model development strategy Cinnamonstory.id using the SWOT matrix. The type of research used is qualitative descriptive. The analysis method in this study uses a combination of BMC analysis approach and SWOT matrix in formulating Cinnamonstrody.id business development strategy. The results of the SWOT analysis show that Cinnamonstory.id in Quadrant II is a diversification strategy. The results of the study show that training, design innovation, affordable services, responsiveness, and effective digital marketing are the keys to Cinnamonstory.id success. Develop Cinnamonstory.id by joining a network of vendors, offering consulting and leasing, recruiting, and training employees, and establishing partnerships with suppliers. Seek out new ideas, develop distinctiveness, improve operational efficiency, manage suppliers, and provide superior customer service in Cinnamonstory.id. Analyze customer feedback and sales data, allocate funds for promotions and investments, and develop marketing strategies and partnerships through social media.

Different strategies of crop diversification between poor and non-poor farmers: Concepts and evidence from Tanzania

Crop diversification, or growing multiple crops in farmland, has received attention as a risk-reducing strategy for smallholders. This study attempts to show that poor and non-poor farmers adopt different strategies of crop diversification. We first conceptualize farmers’ heterogeneous motivations for crop diversification by introducing a subsistence constraint into a utility maximization problem under uncertainty. Using the Tanzanian National Panel Survey, we then examine whether past experiences of shocks affect the adoption of crop diversification differently between poor and non-poor farmers. We rely on a threshold model to estimate heterogeneous impacts between poor and non-poor farmers. We find that poor farmers adopt crop diversification for robust food securities in response to drought/flood and large increases in food prices for purchase. In contrast, non-poor farmers adopt crop diversification to stabilize market income in response to large increases in input prices and large declines in crop prices for sale.

A new age for coal ports: An historical perspective on diversification and a circular economy future

Amidst growing climate change concerns and decarbonisation imperatives, coal ports worldwide face the challenge of diversifying their operations in response to shifting energy demands. This paper investigates the historical transition of coal ports and their diversification strategies within the context of the circular economy. Employing a systematic review of academic literature and trade publications, we analyse the issues that pose long-term threats to coal ports. We focus on nine coal ports and terminals across the UK, US, China, and Russia, evaluating the diversification strategies employed at each port, and assessing their relevance in today's climate landscape. Notably, the Port of Newcastle, Australia, the world's largest coal port, serves as a key case study, revealing the potential for future-proofing operations through a circular economy framework. We discuss the driving factors and opportunities for this transition. Additionally, we address barriers to adoption, such as leadership challenges, financial viability, and infrastructure suitability, shedding light on the transformative journey coal ports must undertake in response to evolving energy paradigms.

Risk transmission and diversification strategies between US real estate investment trusts (REITs) and green finance indices

Risk transmission and diversification strategies between US real estate investment trusts (REITs) and green finance indices

Socio-Demographic Profile, Farming Challenges and Local Government Unit (LGU) Support to Rubber Farmers in Tampilisan, Zamboanga Del Norte: A Pre and Actual Pandemic Analysis

This study investigates the socio-demographic profile, farming challenges, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) support to rubber farmers in Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The research employed a pre and actual-pandemic analysis to assess the effectiveness of LGU extension services in empowering rubber farmers. Data from 50 rubber farmers across 15 barangays were analyzed using a descriptive-correlation method. Findings reveal that rubber farmers in Tampilisan are predominantly middle-aged, have a high school education level, and have low monthly incomes. Farmers engage in diverse farming practices, including intercropping and integrated farming systems, demonstrating adaptive strategies for income diversification. While participation in LGU extension services was high before the pandemic, it significantly declined during the pandemic due to restrictions and limitations. Farmers identified several key challenges, including low rubber prices, capital constraints, and lack of skilled labor, which persisted before and during the pandemic. Despite these challenges, farmers reported moderate agreement on the benefits derived from LGU extension services, particularly regarding education for their children and food security for their families. Findings also suggest that farmers' income correlates with the types of crops planted, indicating that diversifying crops like coconut, banana, and fruit trees can lead to increased income. More so, the correlation between farmer participation and the acquisition of farming tools and planting materials underscores the positive impact of active engagement on resource access. Analyzing the above results, the study revealed the importance of sustained farmer engagement in extension services for enhancing agricultural resilience and livelihood sustainability. The insights elicited from this study include strengthening technical training and infrastructure, promoting farmer group participation, and fostering collaboration between the Local Government Unit (LGU), educational institutions, and government agencies to ensure the effectiveness of extension programs and support sustainable rubber farming practices in Tampilisan.

CAKRA RADIO AS A DIVERSIFICATION FORM OF ARDAN GROUP

Ardan Group utilizes a three-pronged diversification strategy: concentric, horizontal, and conglomerate. Notably, Cakra Radio and Ardan Hotel exemplify this approach. Cakra Radio, focusing on local culture, integrates itself into the lives of Bandung residents. Through diverse programming and high-quality content, it strives to remain the city's preferred radio station. Ardan Hotel, on the other hand, represents horizontal diversification. By entering the hospitality industry, Ardan Group expands into a related but distinct sector. The hotel caters to guests seeking an exclusive experience with top-notch facilities and services. Its success hinges not only on luxurious accommodations but also on efficient and innovative management practices. This demonstrates Ardan Group's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic business environment. In essence, Ardan Group's diversification strategy, exemplified by Cakra Radio and Ardan Hotel, fosters comprehensive growth. By strategically expanding into various sectors, the group optimizes its potential while managing risks. This approach has propelled them to success not only in radio but also in the hospitality industry.

Analisis Swot dalam Menentukan Strategi Pemasaran pada Toko Nadhifa Cake Karawang

Nadhifa Cake cake shop is one of the cake shops operating in Karawang. This research aims to determine and analyze the marketing strategies used by the Nadhifa Cake cake shop, as well as to determine the position of the Nadhifa Cake cake shop using SWOT analysis. The first analysis was carried out through IFAS and EFAS analysis contained in Nadhifa Cake. Next, use the SWOT matrix to analyze Nadhifa Cake's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. The results of this analysis are used to determine the position of the Nadhifa Cake quadrant.The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative to analyze internal and external factors using the SWOT matrix. Data was obtained from interviews with the owner and a survey of 6 consumers using Google Form to get an assessment.The research results show that Nadhifa Cake is in quadrant II. This means that Nadhifa Cake has sufficient internal strength to face external threats. The right strategy for Nadhifa Cake is a diversification strategy, namely utilizing its internal strengths to develop products that can meet the needs and desires of a wider range of customers.

Building a Resilient Digital Entrepreneurship Landscape: The Importance of Ecosystems, Decent Work, and Socioeconomic Dynamics

This study explores the relationship between the entrepreneurship ecosystem and decent work in digital entrepreneurship, raising essential questions about the roles of economic growth and socioeconomic status. By examining this relationship, the research aims to clarify how these factors influence opportunities, inclusivity, and sustainable development in the digital entrepreneurship landscape. It investigates both the direct impacts of the entrepreneurship ecosystem and decent work and the moderating effects of economic growth and socioeconomic disparities on digital entrepreneurship. These moderating factors are crucial for understanding how broader economic conditions can enhance or limit the entrepreneurship ecosystem’s effectiveness. Data were collected from 624 entrepreneurs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to empirically test this model, providing a solid foundation for the proposed hypotheses. The findings significantly affect knowledge advancement and policymaking, particularly concerning KSA Vision 2030. The results confirm the vital roles of a well-developed entrepreneurship ecosystem and the promotion of decent work in supporting digital entrepreneurship. Moreover, the moderating effects of economic growth and socioeconomic status indicate that policy interventions should consider these broader contextual factors to be effective. For policymakers, this study emphasizes the need to foster an environment that strengthens the entrepreneurship ecosystem while addressing economic inequalities and promoting sustained growth. Aligning these initiatives with KSA Vision 2030 could advance digital entrepreneurship as a pivotal element of the country’s economic diversification and development strategies. Ultimately, the study aims to inform policies that enhance inclusivity and sustainability in the digital entrepreneurship sector, ensuring that the advantages of digital innovation are widely accessible across society.

Productivity and Profitability of Diversified Legume-based Cropping Systems in the Indo-gangetic Plains of India as Influenced by Nutrient Management

Background: The continuing adoption of the rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS) and indiscriminate use of inorganic fertiliser has led to a decrease in soil fertility, an increase in multiple micronutrient deficiencies, a decrease in the water table and excessive greenhouse gas emissions, especially in the Indo Gangetic Plains. Adoption of crop diversification strategies, including legumes in cropping systems with integrated use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources, could be a viable option for achieving higher fodder tonnage and sustainable crop production in aforesaid ecologies. Methods: A field experiment was conducted during the kharif, rabi and summer seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20 in a split-plot design comprising four cropping systems (CS) i.e., rice-wheat, rice-berseem, pearl millet-oats-moong bean and maize-cowpea-wheat in main plots; and four nutrient management (NM) practices i.e., 100% RDF (recommended dose of fertiliser), 100% RDF + cow urine (foliar spray), 100% RDF + PGPR (seed treatments) and 75% RDF + cow urine + PGPR were assigned in sub-plots with three replications of each treatment. Result: Investigations revealed that the significantly highest system productivity, net returns and higher nutrient availability were obtained under the rice-berseem cropping system with 100% RDF + PGPR treatment. The magnitude of increment in system productivity of the rice–berseem cropping system was 35.06, 57.87 and 87.29% over rice-wheat, maize-cowpea-wheat and pearl millet-oats-moong bean cropping system, respectively. The legume-based cropping system has strengthened and sustained crop productivity and profitability. The results of the present work confirmed that the adoption of legume-based crop diversification has significantly alleviated the crop yield of dairy-based farming systems.

TikTok Live Streaming Strategy for Msmes in Tasikmalaya to Increase Sales

This research aims to analyze and supplement the live streaming strategies that have not yet been implemented at Lalada Food. Additionally, this study evaluates the impact of the closure and reopening of TikTok Shop on live streaming strategies and proposes new strategies to increase sales and address the challenges arising from these changes. This research uses a qualitative approach focusing on in-depth observation. SWOT analysis is used to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats faced by Lalada Food in conducting live streaming. The company occupies a position in quadrant II of the SWOT analysis, which represents a situation where the company's strengths are greater than its weaknesses, but opportunities are smaller than threats. Therefore, the company is in a strong position but faces significant challenges. The strategy used in this quadrant is the diversification strategy. This research is the first to analyze the implementation of live streaming strategies following the closure and reopening of TikTok Shop. This study provides new insights into their marketing strategies through live streaming to increase sales and address business challenges