bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriate Information Technology In Emerging Economies: An Application For Strategic Decision-Making In Manufacturing Industries
Authors: Ardakani Mehdi Beheshtian , Modarres Mohsen , Ispahani Ahmad
Published: March 2016

Competing in global marketplace has pressured managers respond to shifting market trends by increasing product quality, business process reengineering, and decreasing time to market for new products. Within emerging economies top executives have realized that adoption of appropriate information technologies such a decision support systems (DSS) and group decision support systems (GDSS) have led to changes in the existing organizational structure and communication mechanisms. This paper explores the advantages and constraints of DSS and GDSS in formulating manufacturing strategies in emergent economies. We argued that to fit appropriate information technology to organizational design top executive would benefit from strategic information systems planning process. This process enables top executives to invest in appropriate information system that fits their structural arrangements and organizational culture. Moreover, we explored the impact of DSS and GDSS on executive decision-making capabilities. We also explored the methodology for implementation of appropriate information systems in manufacturing firms in emergent economies.
The O-Ring Theory, Geographical Distribution Of Misery And Corruption
Authors: Ayadi O. Felix , Chatterjee Amitava , Ademiluyi Adegoke
Published: March 2016

The approach in this paper is to explore the relationship between corruption perception index (CPI) and human development index (HDI) in order to determine whether or not poor countries resort to corrupt practices as a way of getting over their level of hopelessness. The results show that corruption poses a problem to all countries and consequently to world economic development.
Long-Term Relationships In Franchised Distribution Systems: Analysis Of Mutual Trust And Commitment
Authors: Bordonaba-Juste M. Victoria , Polo-Redondo Yolanda
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this article is to determine the factors for relational marketing strategy success in channel relationships. The empirical analysis was carried out in the Spanish franchised system, considering both franchisors and franchisees perspectives in order to obtain a dyadic analysis of the relationship. Results showed, after applying a structural equations model, that cooperation, information exchange, trust and commitment are important variables for successful long-term relationships between franchisor and franchisees.
The Determinants Of European Bank Profitability
Authors: Staikouras Christos K. , Wood Geoffrey E.
Published: March 2016

The rate of return earned by a financial institution is affected by numerous factors. These factors include elements internal to each financial institution and several important external forces shaping earnings performance. The type of explanation would determine possible policy implications and ought to be taken seriously. This paper reviews the literature on bank performance studies and classifies the bank profitability determinants. The second part of the paper quantifies how internal determinants (within effects changes) and external factors (dynamic reallocation effects) contribute to the performance of the EU banking industry as a whole in 1994-1998. We construct OLS and fixed effects models, and the results provide a new perspective for understanding the impact of changes in competition on the performance of the EU banking industry. The estimation results suggest that the profitability of European banks is influenced not only by factors related to their management decisions but also to changes in the external macroeconomic environment. The results are in contrast to studies that have examined the structure-performance relationship for European banking and find a positive effect of the concentration and/or market share variables on bank profitability.
Foreign Direct Investment In A Post-Communist Cuba: Overcoming Future Challenges
Authors: Cruz Robert David
Published: March 2016

The history of economic transition since the collapse of communism in the late 1980s and early 1990s offers many lessons for what Cuba may expect when it eventually embarks on its transition path. The path of transition has been more difficult than was conceived immediately following the collapse of communism. The nearly exclusive policy focus on economic liberalization and privatization of public enterprises did not lead to sustained inflows of foreign capital and the rapid economic growth and development once promised for these economies. Current transition strategies have increasingly recognized the importance of well-functioning social institutions (good governance) as the necessary foundation of a well-functioning market economy. Building the institutional infrastructure required by a market economy and necessary for long-term success in attracting FDI has proven, however, to be a difficult and slow process.Foreign direct investment is accepted as one of the key supportive components of an economic transition strategy, but some of the key determinants of FDI are also ones that characterize an effective institutional infrastructure of a market economy. Additional factors related to systematic or market risks are also important determinants of FDI. A basic understanding of these determinants can aid future policy makers.This paper examines Cubas recent experience in attracting FDI, summarizes some of the empirical work that has been done regarding the link between well-functioning social institutions and FDI and draws lessons for a future Cuban government pursuing transition to a market economy. General policy recommendations are also developed.
Visual Arts Marketing: The Brand Equity Challenge Facing Galleries
Authors: Stegemann Nicole , Thompson Beverley
Published: March 2016

This article addresses the challenges facing art galleries in the Sydney metropolitan area with regards to maximising their brand equity. It takes a case study approach, and investigates art galleries' sources of brand equity and the implications for their marketing communications strategies. The research has shown that art galleries have a good understanding of their brand equity entities, however, have to learn to coordinate them successfully. Further, the different types of galleries examined employ and believe in a different mix of marketing communications efforts reflecting their objectives and resources. However, their strategies are not always customer orientated, and lack supporting research. This article is part of a larger research project investigating brand equity in the arts in Australia.
Using Pooled Model, Random Model And Fixed Model Multiple Regression To Measure Foreign Direct Investment In Taiwan
Authors: Hiestand Thomas
Published: March 2016

Through out the paper, two questions will be answered. The first question is, which are the countries that contribute largely to Taiwan FDI? The second question the paper is going to explore is what are the factors that draw FDI into Taiwan. According to the current literature on FDI in other countries, the determinants of FDI are relative market size, relative labor cost, distance and literacy rate. Three versions of the empirical model were estimated. They are Pooled regression model, Fixed Effect (FE) model, and Random Effect (RE) model. Throughout the three models, the relative market size hypothesis was consistently proved to be a key determinant of FDI in Taiwan.
Expansion And International Expansion Of Small-To Medium Sized Firms: The Role Of Finance
Authors: Smolarski Jan , Kut Can , Wilner Neil
Published: March 2016

Small- to medium-sized firms are expected to show international growth at an early stage. Several factors may affect the outcome of initial efforts to expand and internationalize. Our research examines how equity based venture funding affects SME expansion and internationalization. We divide venture capital financing into two categories: incremental financing where firms receive their venture capital funding in portions and lump-sum venture funding where firms receive their funding in one lump-sum. The results show that type of equity based venture capital financing affect expansion and internationalization. Incremental funding appears more appropriate for firms with high growth rates whereas lump-sum financing appears more appropriate for firms that are internationalizing their operations.
Globalization And The Emergence Of New Business Models In The Wine Industry
Authors: Castaldi Richard M. , Cholette Susan , Frederick April
Published: March 2016

The forces of globalization have dramatically altered the international competitive landscape of the wine industry. This paper identifies and analyzes four new business models that have emerged among major industry competitors as wineries strive to create sustainable sources of competitive advantage.
Business-To-Consumer E-Commerce In Japan: Implications For Marketers
Authors: Seitz Victoria , Razzouk Nabil , Takaoka Haruyoshi
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine Japanese consumers B2C e-commerce purchases, their attitudes toward e-commerce, and the attributes that affect their Internet patronage among Japanese e-commerce businesses. Findings from a survey among 112 Japanese respondents indicated that most had made online purchases in the past and intended to use e-commerce in the future. Respondents reported that convenience was the primary advantage of e-commerce, while security issues were the major disadvantages and affected Internet patronage among Japanese e-commerce businesses. Implications suggested that Japanese companies should improve convenience and security factors to attract consumers and increase their sales via e-commerce.
A Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Tax Laws Between Countries For Firms Engaging In Research And Development
Authors: Walsh Robert J.
Published: March 2016

The creation of new technology is seen as a driver for economic expansion and job growth worldwide. To encourage firms to innovate, many countries provide tax incentives. Two such tax incentives are the ability to carry back net operating losses and tax credits for research and development expenditures.This paper attempts to answer the question: Do these tax incentives truly lower the average tax rates paid by high-technology firms? Firms from Canada, Germany, and Japan are examined for the years 1993 to 1997.In general, this paper finds that the ability to carry back a loss, or to use the R&D tax credit, does not, in themselves, produce a lower average tax rate than a similar firm within the same country. However, the more tax options a country produces does lower average tax rates a larger combination of tax incentives allows firms more leeway towards tax minimization.
TV Viewing Motivations Of Arab American Households In The US: An Empirical Perspective
Authors: Rizkallah Elias G. , Razzouk Nabil Y.
Published: March 2016

The study surveyed a sample of 149 adult Arab immigrants in Detroit (MI) and Los Angeles (CA). The findings indicate that the five primary television viewing motivations, in order of importance for these Arab American respondents were: entertainment, relaxation, social Interaction, habit and information. The study however showed that the primary motive for watching Arabic TV was to keep informed about what is happening in the country of origin and around the world. The place of birth whether in the US or in the country of origin, and the length of time in the U. S. appeared to have an impact on the TV viewing habits of Arab Americans. The implications of the findings are also presented.
Employee Background Verification: The Cross-Referencing Effect
Authors: Bonanni Carole , Drysdale Dean , Hughes Andrea , Doyle Patrick
Published: March 2016

Pre-employment screening has increased in recent years. This paper examines the effects of four pre-employment screening tools (reference interviews, criminal record checks, credit bureau investigations, and education verifications) in identifying negative indicators about job applicants. More specifically this investigation identifies, for a Canadian organization, the percentage of negative indicators that were uncovered by each screening tool as well as the percentage of negative indicators that were uncovered through the use of combinations of screening tools. The percentages have been found to be in line with the data already available for American organizations. The main contribution of this research however is to show that when various screening tools are used in conjunction they have a greater potential to uncover applicants negative histories through a synergistic process termed cross-referencing. The results indicate that cross-referencing increases the rate at which negative indicators are found in reference interviews by up to 10%.
The Complementarity Between Trade In Goods And Capital Flows: An Empirical Study Of G7 Countries
Authors: Dar Atul , AmirKhalkhali Sal
Published: March 2016

This paper attempts to empirically examine whether trade in goods and assets are complementary. This is tested by assessing whether countries that are more open in terms of trade policy are also more open in terms of capital flows; that is, whether the degree of capital mobility is positively related to openness. For this purpose, we examine the dynamics of saving-investment relationship in a group of seven most industrialized countries over the 1982-2003 period using a random coefficients error correction model.
Microfinance And Poverty Reduction: Some International Evidence
Authors: Bakhtiari Sadegh
Published: March 2016

Year 2005 was called international year of microcredit by United Nations. Since, micro finance has proven to be an effective tool for poverty reduction this paper argues that microfinance can be considered an important element for an effective poverty reduction strategy. It shows that access and efficient provision of microcredit can enable the poor to smooth their consumption, better manage their risks better, gradually build their assets, develop their micro enterprises, enhance their income earning capacity, and enjoy an improved quality of life. Microfinance services can also contribute to the improvement of resource allocation, promotion of markets, and adoption of better technology; thus, microfinance helps to promote economic growth and development. Also the characteristics of financial systems in developing counties will be discussed and argued that formal financial sector is not consistent with the needs and requirements of the poor and the existence of informal financial sector is a response to the shortcomings of the formal financial sector.
A Study Of Motivation In Business Start-Ups Among Malay Entrepreneurs
Authors: Ismail Ahmad Zaki Bin Hj. , Zain Mohd Fadzely Bin Mohd , Ahmed Elsadig Musa
Published: March 2016

The effect of entrepreneurships in developing economies was studied widely in prior researches, since entrepreneurs contribute significantly in economics development. The purpose of this study is to explore and understand Malay entrepreneurs in the eastern region of Peninsular Malaysia; who are the majority ethnic group in the area. The study is concentrated on the motivation factors that influenced their decision to start up new businesses. This study also examined problems faced by those entrepreneurs, both during start up stage and during present operation. Basic variables on entrepreneurs background and their business characteristics were taken into account.The motivational factors were examined using a modified model from Scheinberg and MacMillan. The primary data collections methods were structured interviews and surveys. Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) was used in analyzing the data. Frequency and descriptive analysis were used to examine the basic variables and problems facing the entrepreneurs. Factor analysis was applied to determine the motivation factors. In addition, ANOVA and MANOVA were used to test the hypotheses developed.The study shows that majority of Malay entrepreneurs are male. One third of the entrepreneurs are well educated up to the tertiary level. Almost all of them are married and has worked in three different fields prior to starting their own business. They were involved in operating small business for others, worked as Government servants or in private firms. A majority of their parents operate their own business. Major problems in conducting business lies in stiff competition from others and also insufficient initial capital. Seven motivational factors were determined to have influenced Malay entrepreneurs to start up business. The most influential factors are spiritual liability, personal development and satisfaction, and financial security. Other important factors are opportunities, freedom, accommodation and escapism. Meanwhile, five hypotheses were developed for this study. The result shows that the level of education of entrepreneurs is significant with reference to the motivational factors. On the other hand, gender, previous work and parents occupation are of no significance. However, combination of gender and level of education showed certain level of significance with reference to their motivational factors.
AIDS And The Funeral Industry In Southeastern Africa
Authors: Snyder David J. , Butler Laurie , Goff Karen
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the impact of AIDS on the Funeral Industry in Southeastern Africa. It first presents an overview of AIDS in Southeastern Africa and then it delves into an examination of family funeral customs in select countries and how they have been affected by the AIDS epidemic. These countries include: Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, and Uganda. Next, this paper takes a look at the impact of AIDS on hospital mortuaries in Zimbabwe. This is followed by an examination of the rise in the number of orphans along with the effect of AIDS on the classroom setting. Finally, four suggestions for fighting the disease are presented.
Characteristics Of The Marble Industry In Egypt: Structure, Conduct, And Performance
Authors: Kandil Azza I. , Selim Tarek H.
Published: March 2016

This paper analyzes marble extraction and production in Egypt from an applied industrial economics point of view. The marble industry in Egypt could be a promising sector if regulated properly. Market structure, conduct and performance is analyzed including degree of differentiation, nature of competition, barriers to entry, and needed regulations. Technically, production matches increasing returns of a Cobb Douglas form while cost structure follows declining average cost with entry . Factor inputs in production are non-complementary with $1000 of capital substitutable by 7.5 units of labor. Efficiency concerns necessitate deep technological segmentation with declining profitability. Critically needed regulations are related to technological use in extraction and labor allocation in production. For higher efficiency, the industry should become more capital intensive even though the Egyptian economy is undeniably labor abundant.
Revisiting Egypt's Energy Policy
Authors: Selim Tarek H.
Published: March 2016

Egypt's oil and gas sector is one of the most strategic sectors in the economy being the single largest industrial activity in the economy, with exports of crude oil and petroleum products constituting 40% of Egypt's export revenues and 20% of its GDP. However, Egypt is currently trapped between dwindling oil production and increasing domestic consumption, a fact which threatens the country to become a net importer of crude oil as well as deprive it of strongly needed foreign exchange. Yet, Egypt has proven natural gas reserves and its future energy outlook seems to be more affiliated with natural gas especially for future export potential. Given these conditions, a restructuring of the sector is necessary for sustainable development. Suggested strategies in line with Egypt's development efforts are outlined including gradual reduction of energy subsidies and their expected impacts on the economy.
U.S. Offshoring Of Jobs And Businesses To India: A Survey And Analysis
Authors: Sarkar Shyamalendu , Reddy Surender
Published: March 2016

Recently, offshore-outsourcing of U.S. jobs in general and particularly to India has drawn considerable attention from various quarters in the U.S. A combination of factors have propelled this issue to the forefront: ominous headlines; downsizing of corporate labor force; huge trade deficits, increased global competition; poor job growth in a healthy economy; loss of white-collar and professional jobs, etc. The trend of jobs outsourced to India is projected to be sharply upward in the near future. India has clearly benefited from the influx of new jobs. It has also brought some cultural changes in the younger generation in India not well received by the local communities. However, the overall cultural understanding between India and the U.S. has certainly improved. The study finds that the U.S. businesses have many compelling reasons in outsourcing jobs to India: cost savings due to wage differentials; decreasing need for capital investment; availability of educated and skilled workforce, etc. The offshore-outsourcing also has many disadvantages: loss of security; increased dependency; huge startup and communication costs; inadequate protection of intellectual property; poor infrastructure; different legal systems; high levels of bureaucracy and corruption, etc. As the economic theories suggest, the authors find that, given the current competitive global business environment, offshore-outsourcing is an essential part of sound business decisions that U.S. corporations need to make to remain economically viable in the long-run. The short-run problem of displaced workers, although highly important, should be addressed in ways other than imposing trade restrictions, or isolating U.S. from world competition.
Protectionism Actually Hurts U.S. Jobs And Economy: An Investigation Of Proponents And Opponents
Authors: Kim Ki Hee , Leung C.K.
Published: March 2016

Outsourcing is an issue that is generating a lot of debate in the Pacific Northwest, often in response to stories about job cuts and fears that workers will get left out in the cold. However, much of what we read and hear about outsourcing is based on misinformation, no information, or just plain politics. Every major national study confirms that outsourcing creates more jobs than it destroys in the U.S. One of the most persistent complaints against globalization is that it destroys jobs. Many people believe that, the more shoes or cars or steel beams we import to the U.S., the fewer we produce ourselves and the fewer Americans with jobs in those industries. Anxiety about trade and jobs is especially acute about imports from poor countries, where workers typically earn a fraction of the wages earned by American workers. The most ardent proponents of free trade will grant that its benefits are not universally distributed, while it almost always outweighs the costs. Along with the many winners come smaller but still real numbers of losers: people whose jobs are indeed put in jeopardy and even eliminated by competition from imports. For those people, the benefits of lower prices, higher quality, and wider consumer choices can be swamped, at least temporarily, by the trauma of losing their jobs. The purpose of this research is to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of protectionism and its impacts on U.S. jobs and the economy.
Impact Of Higher Education On Earnings Of Women In The Public Sector Educational Institutions In Pakistan
Authors: Shah Rummana
Published: March 2016

Formal education is one of the most important components of human capital. The Economics of Education and especially the role of education in growth and development became prominent topics during the early years of the 1960s. T.W. Schultz, Gary Becker and others applied the new human capital frame work to the study of education and other activities that had until then been considered outside the mainstream of economic analysis. It is a universally accepted fact that universal primary education is very important for a countrys development and so is the secondary education as it forms a basis for higher education and technical/vocational training. However, economists differ in view with respect to the importance of higher education. The main purpose of this study was to find the impact of Higher Education and Experience on the Earnings of women teaching at public sector educational institutions in Pakistan. The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan has been trying to encourage the spread of higher education in Pakistan during the past three years or so. The study tried to see whether the emphasis is well placed or not. Data was collected about the qualification level, experience and monthly take home salary (March 2004) of female teachers in Islamabad. Only public sector schools, colleges and a university were chosen. A sample of hundred teachers/lecturers/professors was selected from these institutions. Two equations were estimated using the Ordinary Least Square method. Log linear functions were used to estimate both the equations. The first equation uses the number of years of schooling, experience and experience squared as the three independent variables. Its result shows that an additional year of schooling increases a teachers monthly income by 14.2 % (which is higher than the previous studies) the additional year of experience increases the income by 7.4 %. All the coefficients are highly significant. The second equation uses six dummy variables to represent each completed level of education instead of the number of years of schooling, besides experience and its square. Its result shows that with every increase in the education level there is a substantial increase in the monthly earnings. Seven out of eight coefficients are highly significant. Thus the study concludes that Higher Education plays an important role in enhancing the earnings of women teaching at public sector educational institutions in Pakistan, besides personality building.
Estimating Worker Information Gaps From A Stochastic Wage Frontier: A Study Of Canadian Labour Markets
Authors: Dar Atul A.
Published: March 2016

In the presence of imperfect information in labour markets, optimal job search entails accepting a wage offer if it exceeds a workers reservation wage. However, this generally means that a worker with a given skill, will not earn the maximum wage on offer, and the gap between the maximum wager and the wage earned could be viewed as an indicator of labour market inefficiency arising from worker information gaps. The inefficiency arises because information is costly, so workers do not search long enough to discover the maximum wage, which would otherwise be sought and earned if information were costless. The aim of this paper is to empirically investigate the extent of labour market inefficiency within and across a number of population strata in Canada. These strata include individuals grouped according to various socio-economic and demographic characteristics such as gender, geographical location, education, and immigration status. The econometric model adopted is the stochastic frontier function used initially extensively in studies of production and cost efficiency of firms, and subsequently employed in studies of worker information gaps. The data we use are drawn from the 2001 Census of Canada.
The Influence Of Organizational Culture On The Success Of Knowledge Management Practices With North American Companies
Authors: Chin-Loy Claudette , Mujtaba Bahaudin G.
Published: March 2016

This research tests a model of the moderating effect of organizational culture on the relationship between knowledge management and organizational benefits and a positive relationship between knowledge management and organizational benefits. This topic is related to organizational strategic issues such as sharing knowledge and developing new capacities for action through learning processes. The 133 respondents represented 38 of the 49 North American companies recognized for their knowledge management best practices initiatives. There were two instruments used in this study: Cameron and Quinns 1999 OCAI measured four types of organizational culture (Clan, Adhocracy, Market, and Hierarchy), and Lawsons (2002) KMAI assessed Knowledge Management and Organizational Benefits. Emphasizing the competing values framework, the results from the study show that organizational culture is positively related to organizational benefits with high positive intercorrelations.
Weak Form Efficiency In Indian Stock Markets
Authors: Gupta Rakesh , Basu Parikshit K.
Published: March 2016

Hypothesis of Market Efficiency is an important concept for the investors who wish to hold internationally diversified portfolios. With increased movement of investments across international boundaries owing to the integration of world economies, the understanding of efficiency of the emerging markets is also gaining greater importance. In this paper we test the weak form efficiency in the framework of random walk hypothesis for the two major equity markets in India for the period 1991 to 2006. The evidence suggests that the series do not follow random walk model and there is an evidence of autocorrelation in both markets rejecting the weak form efficiency hypothesis.
ICT For Economic Growth In Andhra Pradesh, A State In India
Authors: Kumar T.P. Pavan
Published: March 2016

This paper discusses the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for economic growth in Andhra Pradesh, a state in India. It looks at demographics of the State and discusses various initiatives by the State Government to transform into a knowledge economy. The paper looks at the various ways to use ICT for economic development and to bridge the digital divide.
Empirical Analysis Of International Mutual Fund Performance
Authors: Boudreaux Denis O. , Rao S. P. Uma , Ward Dan , Ward Suzanne
Published: March 2016

Since 1990 there has been a tremendous growth in the investment in international mutual funds. This growth is likely to continue as domestic stock market cools down and more U.S. investors seek higher returns as well as the diversification benefits of foreign assets. Investors are also attracted to international funds in the belief that such funds earn abnormally high returns because of the previous relative inefficiency in those markets. This study examines the annual risk-adjusted returns using Sharpes Index for ten portfolios of international mutual funds for the period September 2000 through September 2006. The international funds were analyzed by combining the funds into individual portfolios based on sector, geographics and company size. The benchmarks for comparison were the U.S. mutual fund performance reported by MorningStar. The risk-adjusted returns were then determined and compared to each other and to the U.S. market. During this period, nine out of ten of the international mutual fund portfolios outperformed the U.S. market. The portfolio that contained all International Mutual Funds (IMF) significantly outperformed on a risk-adjusted basis the fund that was made up of all of the U.S. stock mutual funds, (All U.S. Stock Funds- USSF). Additionally, the Foreign Small Value (FSV) portfolio, Foreign Small Growth (FSG) portfolio, Emerging Markets (EM) portfolio, Latin America (LA) portfolio, and the Pacific Asia without Japan (PA-J) portfolio all had average annual returns (not adjusted for risk) that exceeded USMFs returns by more than 10 percent.
Pretense, Pride And Prejudice In Qualitative Leadership Research: An Appraisal And Two Examples From Europe
Authors: Fendt Jacqueline , Endrissat Nada
Published: March 2016

In this paper we identify a number of prevailing epistemological inconsistencies in qualitative leadership research and suggest some emendations. We first analyze current research practices in the leadership field. We note that few qualitative studies are conducted and that many such so-called qualitative studies adhere wholly or partly to a positivist paradigm. We evoke possible rationales for this, i.e. we uncover mechanisms by which the positivist paradigm maintains its dominant position. Subsequently we propose an alternative research paradigm, social constructionism, and purport why this paradigm may be particularly suited to leadership research. By means of two practical personal research experiences we provide the reader with concrete examples of social constructionist leadership research and of what issues, barriers and satisfactions researchers might face during such a research journey. We conclude with some pragmatic ideas as to how scholars could be introduced to constructionist epistemologies and encouraged to apply interpretative research stances to leadership themes more often.
The Relationship Between Multiple Intelligences, Culture And Diversity
Authors: Wilson Stefanie Denise , Mujtaba Bahaudin G.
Published: March 2016

The topic of intelligence, whether hereditary or acquired, has been the subject of discussion since the beginning of time and will probably keep researchers and authors talking for many years to come. However, one statement needs to be clarified that studies seem to indicate that people of all backgrounds and cultures have similar capacities of intelligences. Despite this fact, there seems to be widespread discrimination and stereotypes in todays workplace. Effective management and leadership require that our workplaces are free of biases so everyone can work synergistically. The paper provides some reflections on multiple intelligences, culture and diversity management and concludes by offering a discussion of social and emotional intelligences for diversity management as well as suggestions for tolerating, respecting and understanding each others differences.
Growth And Oil Futures Prices In Developing Countries
Authors: Abosedra Salah , Ghosh Sajal
Published: March 2016

This paper examines cointegration and causality between oil prices and economic growth for the oil importing developing countries of Turkey, India, Pakistan, The Philippines and Korea. The study finds the absence of cointegrating relationship between oil prices and economic activity but the existence of unidirectional short-run causality running from oil prices to economic growths for The Philippines and Pakistan. Unidirectional causality is also found to exist from six and nine month futures prices to economic growth for India and Turkey in a bivariate vector autoregression framework. The study fails to establish causal relationship between oil prices and economic growth for Korea, while for India and Turkey, non-causality has been established between oil spot price and economic growth. Hence, our results may suggest that oil futures markets will have more of a role to play in the economy as these markets mature and or as oil prices continue to increase.
Assessing Productivity Performance Of Regional Electric Cooperatives In The Philippines
Authors: Posadas Ramon C. , Cabanda Emilyn
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the productivity performance of private electric cooperatives (ECs) in the Philippines. Our sample draws on 15 regions in the Philippines, with a total of 117 cooperatives over the period 1999-2003. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) models are used to calculate productive performance of our panel sample. Our findings suggest that regional electric cooperatives (RECs) are technologically-oriented, yet, show a declining efficiency change of 0.1 percent annually. In this case, the electricity industry across regions may adopt a weighted combination of electricity-based technologies and supported with policies of autonomy without losing the service-oriented culture. Thus, productivity is driven more by technological innovations in the industry than managerial efficiency. This is a new empirical contribution to the electricity productivity literature.
Accounting Measurement And Disclosure: Choices And Implications From Egypt And The UAE
Authors: Abdel-Azim Mohamed H.
Published: March 2016

This study attempts to identify the degree of similarity in accounting practices especially measurements and disclosure- between Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. The investigation extends to reasons that might be behind similarities and dissimilarities. A special investigation covers implications of source of finance, company size and involvement in foreign operations in the two countries on their accounting policies. Test of the research arguments is based on data published in the annual reports of companies in the two countries. The degree of similarity in accounting practices is measured by I index developed by Van der Tas (1988). This index computes the extent of concentration around a particular accounting practice.
The Effect Of Total Quality Management On Leadership: Case Of Nigeria
Authors: Oriaku Ngozi , Oriaku Ebere
Published: March 2016

In recent years, attempts to find solutions to political, economical, and social problems of developing nations have dominated the interest of developmental researchers. This paper, in effect, has taken the approach of finding the solutions to the problems facing poor leadership in many of the African countries, especially Nigeria. The paper is significant because it emphasizes on the cultural issues, lack of leadership skills, inadequate management operation of the nations, and lack of business competitive advantage. With the view of recommending a TQM model for implementing an effective leadership skills that has potential value-added to the masses, the paper provides Nigeria leaders with reliable tools for management. In addition, some specific elements have been highlighted and analyzed. The elements are: (1) leadership effectiveness, (2) leadership and Management commitment, (3) employee and individual involvement,(4) general public input, and (5) continuous improvement. With these elements chosen, the paper analysis is based on the effect of total quality management on leadership and sustainability of programs. An effective leader is one who points the way of success, who skills individuals who are as comfortable with change as they are with uncertainty, and one who has forward-thinking visionaries to lead the masses to believe and trust that they can improve their lack of efficiency and effectiveness in productivity. The paper recommends the use of total quality management on leadership and reorganization of operational managements in Africa nations, especially Nigeria.
Strategically Strengthening The Software Export Sector: A Benchmarking Comparison Of National Experience
Authors: Baraya Aristides R. , Bonilla Lizette Brenes , Budden Michael Craig
Published: March 2016

Software as a product for export has proven to be a major economic engine in several economies, including those of India and Ireland. Current development efforts underway in Costa Rica by a variety of firms contribute to the potential for software development to become a key export sector in the Costa Rican economy. However, potential roadblocks in the form of governmental restrictions could impair the sectors promise and inhibit the growth the sector is capable of encouraging. In order to identify strategic priorities to strengthen the software export sector, a comparative study of the situation in Costa Rica and key factors for successful software export are discerned. Heeks and Nicholson (2002) investigated three countries noted for their success with software exports: India, Ireland and Israel. Success variables previously identified by researchers were analyzed by Heeks and Nicholson, producing five key factor dimensions identified as contributing to the success of those three economies. It is these five key factor dimensions on which Costa Ricas current situation are assessed.
The Impact Of The Financial Sector Reforms On Savings, Investments And Growth Of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) In Ghana
Authors: Asamoah Gordon Newlove
Published: March 2016

As part of reforms initiated in the mid 1980s, Ghanas financial sector was subjected to a major and extensive restructuring under two financial sector adjustment programs (FINSAP 1 and 2) and the reform for Non- bank financial institutions credit. Having determined that restructuring of the financial system was indispensable to the success of the Economic Recovery Program (ERP) begun in 1983, the government, embarked upon a financial sector reform program (FINSAP) in 1988. Against this background therefore there has been a wave of financial sector reforms partly in response to international political pressures and strive for globalization. This study was to examine financial liberalization as it was carried out in Ghana and to make an assessment of the impact of this policy on savings, investment and the growth of income (GDP) in the Ghanaian economy. This study attempted to investigate the question: How does financial liberalization affect interest rate, savings, investment and GDP in Ghana? Regression Analysis and savings-investment models were used to evaluate how the financial sector impacts on economic growth.
Forecasting Security Returns With Simple Moving Averages
Authors: Lento Camillo
Published: March 2016

This study examines the ability of simple moving averages to forecast security returns. Five moving average variants are used to develop a forecasting model using OLS regression for the DJIA, NASDAQ, TSX and CAD-US exchange rate. The forecasting model is compared to the random-walk model without a drift and tested out-of-sample. The results suggest that the moving averages have no predictive ability on the four indices at a 1 day lag. However, the moving averages explain approximately 45% to 48% of the variation in the returns in the following 10 days and clearly outperform the random-walk model. Most of the forecasting ability is derived from the MA (5, 150). Hurst Statistic estimation is used to confirm the long-term dependencies in the lag 10 data set.
Health Care Efficiency In Transition Economies: An Application Of Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Mirmirani Sam , Li H.C. , Ilacqua Joseph A.
Published: March 2016

Health care costs are a financial burden for developing and transition economies which have experienced a faster growing demand on their health care systems while aiming to improve efficiency. As costs become more complex, attention has shifted to the efficiency of an entire system. Through system-wide assessments, countries with higher health care efficiency can be identified. These systems can be replicated to allow provision of good care at lower costs. Data Envelopment Analysis is used to measure health care efficiencies and to discuss policy implications.
Discretionary Loan Loss Provisions And Earnings Management For The Banking Industry
Authors: Chang Ruey-Dang , Shen Wen-Hua , Fang Chun-Ju
Published: March 2016

The purpose of the study is to investigate the relation between discretionary loan loss provisions and 6 indicators of bank operating performance for the period 1999-2004 under controlling the type of bank, ownership status and asset size. Besides, we investigate whether bank managers intend to use discretionary loan loss provisions as a means for earnings management. Based on the empirical results from the Taiwan Economic Journal (TEJ) database, the study finds: (1) the two earnings-related variables, namely earnings before loan loss provisions and one-year-ahead earnings, are significantly related to discretionary loan loss provision; (2) non-performing loans is significantly related to discretionary loan loss provisions, but non-performing loans ratio and bad debts coverage ratio are not found to be significantly linked to discretionary loan loss provisions; (3) capital adequacy ratio is not significantly related to discretionary loan loss provisions. Finally, our findings indicate that bank managers may use discretionary loan loss provisions to engage in earnings management when the earnings before loan loss provisions or non-performing loans are at a high level.
Enhancing Multilingual Capability Among Hispanics
Authors: Escobar Luz M. , Baraya Aristides R. , Budden Michael Craig
Published: March 2016

Hispanics are the countrys largest and fastest growing minority, but they are not an easily identified racial or ethnic group (Pew Hispanic Center, Trends 2005). In 2000, the U.S. Census reported 32.8 million Hispanics or Latinos in the United States, representing 12% of the total population. By 2004, the Hispanic population was estimated to have grown to over 40 million, an increase of more than 23% in just four years. The largest increase in the Hispanic population is occurring in the southern United States (Pew Hispanic Center). Paralleling the growth of the Hispanic population, the Hispanic labor force will expand to nearly 10 million by 2020 (Pew Hispanic Center). Language barriers and cultural sensitivities need to be addressed for optimal inclusion of this force in the U.S. The dramatic expansion of the Latino population in the State of Louisiana emphasizes the importance of this group, both socially and culturally. At the same time it presents new challenges and demands a real approach for addressing the languages barriers and the cultural sensitivities inherent in such a socioeconomic shift.
The EU Has Accepted IAS For Listed Companies: Will The U. S. Follow?
Authors: Cascini Karen , Rich Anne
Published: March 2016

International financial reporting standards (IFRS) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), have become respected by many countries and regulatory agencies. The European Union (EU) has determined for most publicly held companies that IFRS promulgated by IASB meet the standards for cross-boarder listing. This paper will present a brief history of the development of international accounting standards and discuss the factors that led to the EUs acceptance of them. The paper will then consider the case of the U.S. By examining the changes in the accounting environment in the U.S. and specifically looking at the role of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), this paper will consider whether the U.S. will follow the EU and accept IFRS for cross-boarder listings.
The Impact Of Ethnic Background On Perceptions Of Homeownership
Authors: Stewart Geoffrey T. , Williams Lawrence , Tanner John
Published: March 2016

This study sought to address this issue by measuring factors like responsible financial performance, financial knowledge, product expertise, and purchase intentions to determine if ethnic background significantly impacted ones progression towards homeownership. This study sampled college students since the majority of these students currently do not own a home and have lower personal incomes.
The Effect Of Accounting Regime Characteristics On The Prediction Of Future Cash Flows: An International Comparison
Authors: Hollister Joan , Shoaf Victoria , Tully Gregory
Published: March 2016

For nine countries, we show that the components of accrual accounting earnings provide information incremental to that of current cash flows from operations in explaining next years cash flows from operations. We relate the usefulness of accounting earnings components for explaining near-term cash flows to certain country characteristicscommon/code-law jurisdiction, accrual index, shareholders rights, and uncertainty avoidance. We provide evidence that accounting accruals generated by shorter horizon, code-law regimes provide more incremental explanatory power for short-term predictions than those of longer horizon, common-law countries.