International Journal of Management and Sustainability

Are the corporate voluntary disclosures and transparency in the transitional economy better than the pre-transitional economy? Evidence from developing country

Shamsul Nahar Abdullah — 2024-08-29

The study’s goal is to explore the role of corporate voluntary disclosure and transparency as a strategic tool rather than corporate reporting techniques. This empirical study employs a comparative approach to identify the variations in corporate voluntary disclosure in the pre-transitional and transitional stages of a developing country. A paired sample of 307 annual reports of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) listed companies is considered to explore their reporting practices between the pre-transitional and transitional stages. Lately, a paired t-test has been conducted to examine whether corporate voluntary disclosure significantly differs between the pre-transitional economy and transitional economy. It is found that the corporate people disclose more information in the transitional phase of the emerging economy rather than the pre-transitional phase. The findings of the study will assist emerging countries in designing their corporate strategies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). The study suggests that using voluntary disclosure as a strategic tool can help retain and attract both existing and prospective investors. This study also helps the regulatory body shape its macro-level corporate strategy to successfully graduate from the LDC to the developing economy. Moreover, this study will assist the transitional economy to transform from an aid-based economy to a trade-based economy.

Identifying the job competencies of Generation Z hotel employee in an intelligent environment in China

Xiaoyi He — 2024-09-06

This study aims to identify and enhance the job competencies of Generation Z hotel employees in China, focusing specifically on how intelligent environments influence their job roles. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates focus group interviews with five groups to explore how job roles evolve in response to intelligent environments and uses questionnaires with 167 participants to develop a competency framework. The investigation addresses various dimensions of the intelligent hotel environment, including work support, internal communications, customer experience, and staff-customer interactions. Results show that the sense of responsibility towards customer interactions escalates to another level after hotels adopt an intelligent environment. Furthermore, this study establishes a job competency framework with 3 dimensions and 33 evaluation factors for Generation Z hotel employees, validated through Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The framework of job competencies assists hotels in refining job competency assessment standards, developing robust performance appraisal systems, planning effective career development pathways, and designing targeted training programs. We expect these enhancements to significantly enhance the operational excellence and competitive advantage of hotels in China.

Evaluating the impact of business incubators on promoting growth and creativity in women’s projects in Jordan

Abdel Karim Fawwaz AlBataineh — 2024-09-25

The goals of the vision included economic modernization and, based on the royal directives, the necessity of doubling Jordanian women’s participation in the labor market, not in order to improve the annual growth rate but in order to invest in achieving gender parity with economic participation and women’s empowerment. Despite the presence of many obstacles to achieving this, the Jordanian government has legislated laws that help remove these obstacles, but they still need to be activated at the level of all activities, including equality between wages between males and females, etc. The study concluded with the necessity of activating the role of business incubators to empower women’s economic, political, health, educational, etc. role, with the necessity of investment and equality in the use of human capital, especially females, after rehabilitation and training, especially in the areas where women live, in order to achieve growth and creativity. The focus is on academic education only; it led to an increase in the unemployment rate among females in Jordan, and this helped them migrate from villages to the city in search of a better job opportunity. Therefore, the government’s intention to transform education into two tracks: academic, vocational, and industrial, will give women an incentive to enter into a new challenge and give them an opportunity for creativity through coordination with business incubators to develop entrepreneurial projects and enable women to achieve sustainable development.

Embracing the role of business performance to foster the association between digital marketing, intellectual capital, and business sustainability

Wilson Bangun — 2024-09-26

This study aims to explore the relationship between digital marketing and business performance and sustainability in small-medium enterprises (SMEs) in Bandung, Indonesia. Additionally, it examines the mediation power of business performance in enhancing the association of digital marketing, intellectual capital, and business sustainability. We employed a quantitative approach and acquired data from 308 SMEs in Bandung, Indonesia. Data collection utilized Google Forms and purposive sampling methods. We tested the hypotheses using Smart PLS. The results indicate that digital marketing has no significant effect on business performance. However, we found that intellectual capital acts as a catalyst for both business performance and sustainability. Given the identified role of intellectual capital as a catalyst for both business performance and sustainability, SMEs owners should prioritize investments in knowledge creation by providing employee training, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and supporting research and development initiatives. Investments in knowledge creation and innovation are crucial for SMEs to enhance business performance and sustainability. This involves providing employee training, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and supporting research and development initiatives.

Marketing and IT capability as mediators: The role of digital marketing and orientation on SMEs marketing performance

Rudy Haryanto — 2024-09-26

The aim of this research is to examine the correlation linking digital marketing and the digital sphere orientation on marketing performance of MSMEs in Indonesia. Then, how information technology capabilities and marketing capabilities can be mediating variables between these three variables. This research uses a quantitative approach. This research falls under the category of exploratory research. The population in this study was 2,766; the research sample came from 338 MSMEs that are Go-Food partners spread across 4 districts on the island of Madura, Indonesia. The findings of the study indicate that digital marketing and digital orientation significantly influence the marketing performance of MSMEs. Information technology and marketing capabilities can be mediating and are variables that support other variables. The impact of this research is practical for Small and Medium Enterprises because, by improving marketing performance, they can maximize and develop their marketing capabilities. Information technology and marketing capability are widely used in research involving large companies. This research brings information technology capability within the scope of MSMEs because digital marketing has been widely applied to improve marketing performance. Then, this research has a practical implication to contribute to the role of information technology and marketing capability to answer how digital marketing impacts marketing performance.

Exploring the impact of consumer behavior and innovation orientation on business strategy and firm performance: Insights from MSMEs in Indonesia

Siti Fatonah — 2024-09-26

The purpose of this research is to examine and analyse the influence of consumer behaviour and innovation orientation on firm performance through business strategy, impacting the performance of MSMEs in Karanganyar, Indonesia. The study utilizes a quantitative approach, collecting data through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with 80 owners of Mbangun Makhutoromo MSMEs Cluster in Karanganyar, Indonesia. The collection data were analysed using linear regression and path analysis with SPSS 24 software. The results indicate that consumer behaviour and innovation orientation significantly impact business strategy. Consumer behaviour has both direct and indirect effects on firm performance through business strategy. On the other hand, innovation orientation affects company performance indirectly through business strategy rather than directly. Enhancing company performance is more effective through direct consumer behaviour analysis. Additionally, well-formulated business strategies can leverage innovation orientation to achieve indirect improvement. For MSMEs to improve performance, a focus on understanding and analysing consumer behaviour is crucial. Business strategies should indirectly employ innovation orientation. This approach requires careful adaptation to environmental changes, consumer preferences, and market trends to ensure sustained business growth and competitiveness.

Effects of financial literacy and attitude toward money on financial capability among SMEs in Malaysia

Mas Azira Mohamed — 2024-10-09

The study examines how financial literacy and attitudes towards money affect financial capability among SMEs in Malaysia. SMEs are crucial for global economic growth but frequently encounter specific obstacles that include financial instability. This study investigates the factors that influence the financial capability of SME owners, acknowledging its importance in promoting business expansion and adaptability. The study involves 231 SME owners and uses scales to assess financial literacy, attitudes towards money, and financial capability. Results show significant correlations among financial literacy’s dimension and financial capability. Financial literacy is a crucial factor in determining financial capability, underscoring the need to improve financial education for SME owners. One dimension of attitude towards money, which is price sensitivity, shows a significant relationship with financial capability. According to the study, SME owners should devote time and effort to financial education and training in order to improve their financial capability. This can help SMEs in decision-making, hence improving the financial performance of the business. The study provides important information for policymakers, business owners, and researchers, highlighting the necessity of specific actions to enhance financial knowledge and encourage beneficial financial practices among SMEs.

The role of capital intensity in mediating CEO risk-taking, sustainability reporting, aggressive tax strategies, and financial reporting

Mujennah — 2024-10-09

This study explores the influence of CEO risk-taking, sustainability reporting, and aggressive tax practices on financial reporting quality, focusing on the mediating role of capital intensity. Data from 2,305 companies listed in Indonesia over five years were analyzed using path analysis, with the Baron and Kenny approach employed to identify significant mediation effects. The findings reveal that CEO risk-taking, sustainability reporting, and aggressive tax practices indirectly impact financial reporting quality through capital intensity. The study also underscores the role of materiality gaps in sustainability reporting and tax non-compliance in shaping financial reporting outcomes. Capital intensity emerges as a crucial mediator, linking these factors to financial reporting quality. The results suggest that these indirect effects are significant and should be considered in corporate governance and financial management. To improve financial reporting quality, companies must recognize the role of capital intensity, while regulators and policymakers should address sustainability reporting standards and the discrepancies between accounting and tax regulations.

The effect of board of directors’ characteristics on anti-money laundering: Evidence from banks sector

Ahmed Hesham Moawed Elhefni — 2024-10-15

This study aims to investigate how board composition affects banks' efforts to combat money laundering. It was an applied research study using a descriptive and correlational design. All banks operate in the Arab world. We used screening procedures to select a sample of banks. The findings indicate the inclusion of board members with expertise in compliance, law, or finance has a favorable effect on financial institutions' AML initiatives. Board members who have experience in the financial sector or who have specific knowledge of anti-money laundering laws improve the results of anti-money laundering efforts, thereby avoiding fines for their companies. The Board of Director’s knowledge of anti-money laundering legislation, its ability to ensure the bank’s adherence to national and international anti-money laundering laws, and its flexibility in responding to regulatory modifications positively impact the commitment to anti-money laundering. The Board of Directors is the controller of the institution and therefore has the main role in combating money laundering. A board of directors committed to combating money laundering keeps the entire organization compliant and avoids the risks of money laundering.

The impact of corporate social responsibility on investment efficiency: Exploring the role of analyst forecast accuracy

Qiujin Zhao — 2024-10-15

This research investigates the direct and indirect influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on investment efficiency, focusing specifically on the mediating role of analyst forecast accuracy. We analyzed data from Chinese listed companies between 2010 and 2022, including a total of 21947 observations. We employed Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis to assess the data. We used Propensity score matching (PSM) to address endogeneity, and the Boostrapt method was applied to verify the mediating effect of analyst forecast accuracy. The four-step approach results demonstrate that corporate social responsibility (CSR) positively impacts firm investment efficiency in both the full sample analysis and the analysis using propensity score matching samples. Further in-depth analysis reveals that analyst forecast accuracy plays an important mediating role in linking two factors. The Bootstrap method applied to both the total samples and PSM samples further confirms that analyst forecast accuracy serves as a partial intermediary in the relationship between the two factors. These findings not only underscore the importance of maintaining high standards of CSR practices but also provide a recommendation for financial analysts to understand better companies’ CSR initiatives and disclosure to enhance their forecasting accuracy. Evaluating firm CSR quality, as well as analyst forecast accuracy, is equally useful for those investing in potential opportunities. These factors will help reduce uncertainty in investment decision-making and improve investment efficiency.

Mediating role of electronic word of mouth affecting green consumer behavior

Nguyen Thi Ngoc Nga — 2024-10-22

The research was conducted to measure the relationship between factors affecting green consumer behavior, examining the mediating role of E-WOM. To achieve the proposed research goals, the authors chose the Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) to analyze data when surveying 294 consumers living in Ho Chi Minh City with an interest in and understanding consumer products. Electronic word-of-mouth activities and green consumer behavior rely on a non-probability sampling method through structured interview questionnaires. The study employs the dual theory, which combines the information acceptance model (IAM) and the planned behavior model (TPB), as its background theory. Using Smart-PLS 4.0 statistical software to analyze data, statistical results have shown that the factors of Argument Quality (0.470), Reliable Source (0.175), and Satisfaction (0.388) have a positive impact on E–WOM (0.388). E-WOM has a positive and direct influence on green consumer behavior. The authors anticipate that their management implications will serve as a valuable solution for businesses embracing sustainable trends in the future.

The moderating role of emotional intelligence and HR digitalization on the relationship between compensation and employee job performance in Johor manufacturing sector

Ahmed Saleh Ahmed Saif Al-Shameri — 2024-10-22

This research examines the moderating role of emotional intelligence and HR digitalization on the relationship between compensation and employee job performance in Johor manufacturing sector. The manufacturing sector, which has contributed significantly to the Malaysian national GDP, was among the most affected sectors during the remote work movement caused by several Covid-19. One of the most critical aspects was managing human resources (HR) in remote work and the challenges faced by the employees working online. Drawing upon the Theory of Social Exchange and Ability model of Emotional Intelligence, this practical study investigated the influence of compensation (COM) on employee job performance (EJP) with the moderation of human resource digitalization (HRDi) and emotional intelligence (EI). A quantitative methodology based on online and hard-copy questionnaires was adopted. The population of this study consisted of management employees, such as directors, managers, executives, and administrators working in Johor manufacturing companies. A total of 318 responses was used in this study. Utilising SPSS and Smart PLS, the researcher analysed preliminary and pilot studies, data screening and cleaning procedures, exploratory factor analysis, as well as partial least squares structural equation modeling to assess the relationships among variables and test the hypotheses. The research findings demonstrated that compensation directly affects employee job performance. Meanwhile, human resource digitalization moderates the relationships between compensation and job performance of employees. In addition, emotional intelligence moderates the relationships between compensation and employee job performance. Policymakers are urged to encourage HR digitalization implementation and training on enhancing emotional intelligence. Besides, organizations should have plans on how to enhance their implementation of HR digitalization and improve emotional intelligence.

The role of social influence in mediating the relationship between relative advantage and purchase intentions for smartphones: A study in Kathmandu, Nepal

Sajeeb Kumar Shrestha — 2024-10-25

This research explores smartphone usage dynamics in Kathmandu, Nepal, focusing on how relative advantage, social influence, and purchase intention interact in the context of the city's growing technological landscape. To address the identified gap in understanding the mediating role of social influence, descriptive and exploratory research methods are used. A survey involving 412 smartphone users was conducted both in person and online. The study reveals that relative advantage significantly impacts both social influence and purchase intention. Social influence is found to partially mediate the relationship between relative advantage and purchase intention. Specifically, individuals who perceive a greater relative advantage in a smartphone, thereby further enhancing their purchase intention. The research provides valuable insights into the factors driving consumer behavior in Kathmandu's smartphone market. It demonstrates that while relative advantage directly affects purchase intentions, social influence also plays a critical role in mediating this relationship. These findings can guide marketers in refining their product placement, promotional strategies, and community engagement efforts, ensuring they address both the perceived advantages of smartphones and the influence of social factors on consumer decisions.

Disclosures in integrated reporting in Indonesia: Do corporate governance and ownership structures matter?

Heri Yanto — 2024-10-25

This study aims to analyze the impact of corporate governance and ownership structure on implementing elements of integrated reporting (IR) in the annual reports and sustainability reports of firms in Indonesia. This study includes corporate governance elements such as the size of the board of directors, the independence of the board of commissioners and the presence of audit and risk management committees. Meanwhile, the ownership structures examined in this study are institutional ownership and managerial ownership. The data were obtained through the content analysis of firms’ annual and sustainability reports. This research uses secondary data from the firms' websites and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) website. The data were then analyzed further using multiple regression analysis. The results show that only the risk management committee positively affects IR disclosure. At the same time, other independent variables do not affect IR disclosure. All control variables positively affect IR disclosure. This study adds to the literature by demonstrating that the risk management committee, firm size, profitability and leverage influence the extent of integrated reporting disclosure. This research contributes to corporations by illustrating that a risk management committee can enhance the importance of IR disclosure in Indonesia.