bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Appropriate Consumption Culture Of Buddhists In Current Thai Society According To Buddhadasa Bhikkhus Wishes
Authors: Phrakhruphaowanasamathikhun Phrakhruphaowanasamathikhun , Eksaphang Uthai , Onkom Suchitra
Published: March 2016

The objective of this research is to study the appropriate consumption culture of Buddhists in current Thai society according to Buddhadasa Bhikkhus wishes. In this study, we used both quantitative and qualitative methods. Taking a quantitative approach, researchers had 69 people/monks complete a questionnaire, whereas researchers used focus group techniques, inviting experts for discussion for a more qualitative approach. From the study, researchers found three of Buddhadasa Bhikkhus most important wishes to include: 1) making Buddhists and members of all religions connect with the most essential significance of their religions; 2)fostering a good understanding between religions; and 3)furthering all of mankind by helping individuals to separate themselves from materialism. If Buddhists can apply these ideas to their lives, it will promote their happiness and assist them in surviving in a capitalist society by living their lives economically.
Macro-Drivers Of Gulf Co-operation Council Countrys Economic Risk
Authors: El-Sady Hassan Mounir
Published: March 2016

This study provides the first empirical analysis of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), which explores the macro-drivers of each country's economic risk. It examined the economic risk across GCCs countries over the period of January 2000 to December 2011. The study included all GCC countries: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Kuwait, United Arab of Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Sultanate of Oman (Oman), and Kingdom of Bahrain (Bahrain). In terms of economic risk, results revealed that Kuwait and UAE represented a safe land for local and international investment to be allocated in GCC. This could be attributed to their very high rating and stability of economic systems in comparison with other GCC countries. Results also revealed that KSA, Qatar and Bahrain were considered countries with an instable economic system in comparison with other GCC countries. Moreover, findings revealed that each GCC country was a unique case in terms of its drivers of economic risk. Results also indicated that while KSAs economic risk was driven by the instability of its budget balance as a percentage of GDP, Kuwaits economic risk was driven by the low real GDP growth, and UAEs economic risk was driven by the instable GDP per capita. As for the economic risk of Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, it was driven by the illiquidity of the economy as measured by the current account as a percentage of GDP.
The Impact Of Basel III On Italian Banks Loan Rates: An Accounting-Based Approach
Authors: Di Biase Pasquale
Published: March 2016

This paper empirically investigates the impact of the new capital requirements imposed under Basel III on bank lending rates.A general accounting equilibrium model is developed in order to map the change in the average interest rate on bank loans which is required to preserve the economic performance and the market value of financial institutions under the new regulatory framework.The study refers to the Italian banking system. According to our estimates, the long-term impact of heightened capital requirements on bank loan rates is likely to be modest.In our baseline scenario, we find evidence that each percentage point increase in the capital ratio can be recovered by increasing interest rates with which borrowers are charged by only 5.75 basis points. We conclude that the Italian banking system should be able to adjust to the higher capital requirements imposed by Basel III through a set of operative and commercial levers with no significant effects on the cost of credit for companies and consumers.
Environmentals Proactivity Measurement Tool Validation
Authors: Peiro-Signes Angel , Segarra-Ona Maria-del-Val , De-Miguel-Molina Blanca , De-Miguel-Molina Maria
Published: March 2016

Environmental proactivity is raised as a fundamental part of the corporate social responsibility of companies. Moreover, environmentally responsible behavior is part of the culture of the company and generates both, tangible and intangible benefits. Different classifications depending on how companies react to the social environmental demand can be found, but a method applicable to industrial sectors still lacks. The aim of this paper is to validate a measurement tool for analyzing the incorporation of environmental proactivity to the overall strategy of the organizations and to characterize the industrys behavior as a differentiator and able to generate competitive advantages for the industry.
Challenges For Tourism: A Changing Paradigm
Authors: Cordente-Rodriguez Maria , Mondejar-Jimenez Juan-Antonio , Talayan Agueda Esteba
Published: March 2016

The present environment is characterized for the uncertainty and crisis, and the existence of threats and dangers in the society and in the tourist sector for the survival of companies in the market. In addition, apart from changes in the economic situation, changes in demand occur in terms of new wants and needs, obliging suppliers to adapt to them in order to survive in times of a highly competitive environment and a difficult economic situation, when the key is not just attracting visitors, but also satisfying them in order to gain their loyalty. So the real threat is the lack of response to changing situations. The Spanish tourist sector is pressured by various threats such as the need to improve the competitiveness of destinations and products, make the industry more professional, encourage new forms of marketing and promotion, or change the sales model. Therefore, businesses must adapt to these changes and respond to them, strengthen the confidence of customers, who seek to obtain the optimum value for money. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the tourism activity in the town of Cuenca in the period 2005 to 2009, focusing the analysis on how supply changed to adapt to the requirements of demand. The aim being to evaluate their and correct errors, and design the actions of the future. That is to say, create an appropriate market strategy to promote the tourism product and ensure the idea of a consolidated tourist destination.
Stepped-Up Progress On IFRS In Russia: History In The Making
Authors: Borker David R.
Published: March 2016

Starting in May 2010 new Russian legislation and other events have raised expectations of an accelerated adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) starting January 2012. These events are examined in the context of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and IFRS, the importance of adopting IFRS for Russia, relevant Russian cultural and geopolitical issues surrounding adoption, and the status of existing Russian Accounting Standards. The need for establishing support mechanisms, specifically, effective local standards setting bodies and a supportive institutional infrastructure is examined. Examples of strong standards setting bodies outside Russia in countries that have recently adopted IFRS are compared to standards setting bodies in Russia. The European Financial Reporting and Accounting Group (EFRAG), the European Commissions advisory group on IFRS, is considered as a potential support model and likely Russian counterparts are identified. Key success factors for Russia in successfully adopting IFRS are discussed.
Change In The Composition Of Bank Income And Its Effect On The Changes In The Efficiency Of Bank Regions
Authors: Van der Westhuizen Gerhardus
Published: March 2016

Over the past five years, banks experienced a change in the composition of bank income earning more in service fees compared to interest income. The effect of this change on the efficiency of bank regions is investigated. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and the TFP (Total Factor Productivity) index decomposition methodology were used to estimate efficiency and to decompose productivity change into its different components. Two models were specified one for the traditional function of a bank and one for the non-traditional function of a bank. It appears that some bank regions experienced improvement in efficiency under the non-traditional model, meaning that the change in the composition of bank income can result in improved efficiency.
A Central Banks Role In Cashless Payments
Authors: Duemmler Tobias , Kienle Stephan
Published: March 2016

The smooth functioning of payment systems is relevant for both the efficiency of the financial sector as well as the implementation of monetary policy operations. Therefore, payment systems are often provided by central banks. The characteristics of individual payment systems, such as increasing economies of scale, favour the development of a monopolistic situation. Therefore, we consider the role of a central bank acting as a monopolist and discuss possible welfare effects. Against the background of huge systemic risks, a central bank acting as an operator of an individual payment system is supposed to be the optimal solution. We illustrate our findings in the light of the role of the Bundesbank which has traditionally been operating its own payment systems.
The Relationship Between Working Capital Management And Firms Profitability: An Empirical Investigation For An Emerging Asian Country
Authors: Charitou Melita , Lois Petros , Santoso Halim Budi
Published: March 2016

The major objective of this study is to examine the relationship between working capital management and firms profitability. Using a dataset of all Indonesian firms over the period 1998-2010, results show that the Cash Conversion Cycle and Net Trade Cycle are positively associated with the firms profitability. Results also show that firms riskiness, as measured by the debt ratio, is negatively related to the firms Return on Assets. The results of this study should be of interest to executives and major stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and financial analysts, especially after the recent global financial crisis and the latest collapses of giant organizations worldwide.
Post-Dotcom IPOs In Germany: After Crisis Developments In Underpricing
Authors: Schmuhl Wolf , Schnier Olaf
Published: March 2016

After the dotcom-breakdown in 2000, German IPOs came to a sudden standstill and recovery took several years. Empirical evidence on German IPO activities so far focused mostly on the preceding new economy bubble. In contrast, this contribution aims at investigating the post-dotcom IPO market in Germany, using a sample of 182 IPOs between March 2002 and April 2011. The influences of private equity investors, underwriters and the market segment on the flotation are analyzed. Subsequently, driving factors of underpricing are identified. Our results indicate that especially offering characteristics affect underpricing. Furthermore, the companys age and the industry have a significant impact. Private equity investors, major underwriters and the market segment lost their empirically observable influence on underpricing. For the post-dotcom market environment, the results show a shift towards other hot-issue industries, a cooling down of investor sentiments and no significant reduction in ex-post uncertainty concerning new market segments.
The Impact Of Dividend Payments On Shareholders Wealth: Evidence From The Vector Error Correction Model
Authors: De Wet Johannes , Mpinda Mvita
Published: March 2016

To date, a vast body of research has been established on dividend policy. However, little research has been done on the impact of dividend payments on shareholders wealth while considering the short- and long-run effects. This study is based on a sample of 46 companies listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE) for the period 1995 to 2010. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) was used to describe the short-run and long-run dynamics or the adjustment of the co-integrated variables toward their equilibrium values. Results indicate that in the long run, dividend yield is positively related to market price per share, while earnings per share do not have a significant impact on the market price per share.
A Non-Parametric Comparison Among Firms Income Statement-Based And Balance Sheet-Based Performance
Authors: Oberholzer Merwe
Published: March 2016

The purpose of the study is to create an income statement-based and a balance sheet-based data envelopment analysis (DEA) model, and to demonstrate these models on Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed firms and to compare the technical and scale efficiencies of firms among the two models. A convenience sample of 51 JSE-listed industrial companies over a three year period was selected. The practical value of this modeling exercise is that corporate managers can become conscious that, although the income statement and balance sheet performances tend to be related, there is evidence of a significant gap between firms performance according to these measurements.
An Evaluation Of The Co-Operative Business Model Within The Context Of The Global Reporting Initiative
Authors: Du Toit Marne , Buys Pieter W.
Published: March 2016

Sustainability reporting, renowned as an instrument for businesses to communicate how they function more efficiently and responsibly within the social and physical environment, while simultaneously remaining profitable, has evolved in an up-and-coming trend by businesses. In addition, this leads to integrated reporting, which implies that a business strategy, performance, risk and sustainability are inseparable from one another. The International Year of Co-operatives (2012), with the theme Co-operative Enterprises Build a Better World, recognises that co-operatives, in their range of forms, support the fullest participation in the social and economic development of people. Co-operatives also have the remarkable opportunity to grow everywhere for the reason that modern society needs their role and initiatives.This article considers to what extent the GRI guidelines, as a reporting framework, are feasible or applicable to co-operatives as a business model. The selected agricultural co-operative (Agri-Com) is used in the form of a case study, where the GRIs Sustainability Reporting Guidelines are applied to its activities. This study found that the co-operative business model performed admirably well under these guidelines and suggests that the co-operative business model is very relevant in the modern business environment.
Analytic Study Of The Trend Of Ghanas GDP Before And After Re-basing
Authors: Sarpong Adu-Manu Kofi , Boakye Abraham Bamfo , Amponsah Abraham , Yeboah Clement
Published: March 2016

The fourth republican constitution came into force in 1993. Ghana statistical Service also re-based Ghanas GDP in the same year. From 1993 to 2005, the average GDP growth rate was about 4.3%. Within the period of 1993 and 2005, Ghana was still below the lower middle income level. Another re-basing took place in 2006. It is now believed that we are in the lower middle income level. The study was conducted to develop mathematical models to predict the trend of Ghanas GDP before re-basing and after re-basing in 2006, use the models before and after re-basing to predict the future trend in Ghanas GDP growth, compare our GDP growth before re-basing and after re-basing, to determine whether or not, there are fluctuations in our GDP growth and predict Ghanas per capita income status in 2015. Data on Ghanas GDP were collected from the Statistical Service Department. The GDP figures from 1993-1995 and from 1996-2010 were plotted separately on graphs. A function whose graph best fits each trend was found using regression analysis. It was observed that Ghanas GDP trends before and after re-basing was exponential. There were also no fluctuations in the growth of the economy. Ghana may still be in the lower middle income status by 2015.
Open Distance Learning Students Perception Of The Use Of Social Media Networking Systems As An Educational Tool
Authors: Wiid Jan , Cant Michael C. , Nell Corinne
Published: March 2016

Students in tertiary institutions have become more and more adapted to the use of technology, which is especially important for the businesses that hire graduates. Students are increasingly expected by employers to be proficient in the use of social media and therefore expect their institutions to make use of similar technology in the delivery of educational materials. The main aim of this study was to investigate students perceptions of the use of social media networking systems during their time of studying at an open distance learning (ODL) tertiary institution. The study also investigated whether students feel at ease when using social media networking systems, whether they will be able to find information on these social media networking systems, and whether they believe it will be an effective and easy way to study course content. These were tested by making use of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) constructs namely; Perceived ease of use, Perceived usefulness, Attitude towards using, and System accessibility. A survey was distributed to students, and it was found that students regarded Perceived ease of use as being the most important factor to consider when they are using social media networking systems.
The Relationship Between Stock Market Development And The Opacity Index
Authors: Kamiru John , McGowan, Jr. Carl B.
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we investigate the relationship between stock market development and the Opacity Index for 2005/2006, 2007/2008, and 2009. The role of financial institutions in promoting economic growth and development is well established. The specific role of the stock market in economic growth and development is to provide capital to entrepreneurs and growing companies and to direct capital to companies that provide the highest rate of return. The Opacity Index is a measure of transparency for an economy and measures the degree of transparency in an economy. We find a statistically significant relationship between the Opacity Index and the ratio of stock market capitalization divided by GDP for a sample of 45 countries for which the Opacity Index is provided.
Language And Gender Influence On The Consumers Choice Of Branded Meat Attributes
Authors: Pelser Theuns , Groenewald Anita , Prinsloo Hein
Published: March 2016

The feedlot industry is the main beef producer in South Africa and falls in the category of Small Businesses. For these small business enterprises to be successful in an industry subjected to fierce competition, it is necessary to be innovative in a market where high quality beef serves as just another commodity. Previous research has shown that demographic factors can influence brand preferences. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationships between language and gender with brand attribute preference. Another objective was to identify opportunities that will differentiate and position branded meat products that will create consumer equity and build strong brand names. The case study approach was used and included quantitative and qualitative research. The population consisted of consumers buying meat products at the different retailers in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, under the brand names Kanhym Fresh Meat, Farm Inn Meat, and Franks Meat. A sample of 612 was conveniently selected for the study. A total of 588 questionnaires were completed. This study confirmed the interrelationship of the demographic variables gender and language that may affect consumers preferences. This means consumers will try different products with specific attributes. The results of this study identify opportunities of implementing strategies to maintain and enhance the competitiveness of branded meat retailers. It is finally recommended that brand retailers determine the demographic and psychographic profile of their target market for a specific product when producing or marketing products.
Comparing The South African Stock Markets Response To Two Periods Of Distinct Instability The 1997-98 East Asian And Russian Crisis And The Recent Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Pretorius Anmar , De Beer Jesse
Published: March 2016

This paper compares the South African stock markets response to two periods of distinct instability, namely the East Asian and Russian crisis of 1997-98 and the global financial crisis of 2007-09. Considering share prices, the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE) was more severely affected by the earlier crisis, when the domestic fundamentals were weaker. The low levels of foreign reserves were the main cause of concern. The paper further empirically investigates volatility spillover between the JSE and various developed and emerging stock markets during the two crisis periods, employing twelve separate bi-variate GARCH models. The main contributors to volatility spillover during the East Asian and Russian crisis were Mexico, Thailand, Brazil, and Germany predominantly emerging markets. During the second crisis period, Germany, US, Brazil, and UK played the dominant parts predominantly developed markets. The importance of Germany in both periods can be attributed to the countrys role as main export destination of South African goods in Europe.
Employees Perceptions Of The Current Incidence And Causes Of Tobephobia In Their Working Environment
Authors: Singh Prakash
Published: March 2016

In any organization, there are definite signs of the fear of failure, which impacts negatively on the organizations culture and consequently inhibits the employees outputs. Managing human resources becomes a challenge in any organization because of the employees achievement gap between job expectations and job outcomes. Motivational research on achievement situations avers that while some individuals have an achievement orientation, others can be imbued with a fear of failure orientation in their working environment. Studies over the past seven decades indicate that the fear of failure is a multifaceted form of avoidance motivation that can be linked to an acute emotional sensitivity when individuals fail to meet expectations. This failure-avoidant motive could result from a fear of change within ones environment. When this fear is associated with educational deficits within the environment, then the result is that individuals would experience the effects of tobephobia (TBP). In this study, TBP is defined as the fear of failure experienced by employees, such as teachers in their schools because of them lacking the professional competencies to achieve planned educational outcomes.A multi-respondent survey design was used in this quantitative study, which focused on teachers perceptions of the current incidence and causes of TBP in their working environment. The findings of this study confirm that TBP is not a myth, but a harsh reality affecting teaching and learning outcomes. As the findings of this exploratory study also strongly suggest, employers must not be complacent and evasive by ignoring problems that fester within their organizations.
Relationship Between Learning Orientation And Business Performance And The Moderating Effect Of Competitive Advantage: An Accounting Services Firms Perspective
Authors: Martinette Louis , Obenchain-Leeson Alice , Gomez Gladys , Webb Jessica
Published: March 2016

This study examines the influence of learning orientation on business performance (achievement of sales and profit objectives) in the context of pure service, specifically that of public accounting services firms. The conceptual framework used in this research has been drawn from marketing, finance, and organizational behavior theory. Specifically, relationships related to learning orientation, sources of competitive advantage, and business performance have been identified.This research tests a framework about learning orientation and its consequences in an accounting services firm. Specifically, this study focused on several research questions, including: 1) Is there a relationship between learning orientation and business performance in terms of the achievement of sales and profit objectives in an accounting services firm?, 2) Is there a relationship between learning orientation and competitive advantage in an accounting services firm?, and 3) Does competitive advantage moderate the relationship between learning orientation and business performance in an accounting services firm?A survey-based research methodology is used to explore these research questions and pertinent findings reported in previous studies (Martinette, 2006; Martinette & Obenchain-Leeson, 2010; Martinette & Obenchain-Leeson, 2012). The findings of this study suggested that as learning orientation increases in public accounting services firms, business performance scores and competitive advantage also increase. The findings of this study did not suggest that competitive advantage moderates the relationship between learning orientation and business performance in public accounting services firms.
Determinants Of Firm Terminal Value: The Perspective Of North American And European Financial Analysts
Authors: Nogueira Reis Pedro M. , Gomes Augusto Marion
Published: March 2016

Company valuation models attempt to estimate the value of a company in two stages: (1) comprising of a period of explicit analysis and (2) based on unlimited production period of cash flows obtained through a mathematical approach of perpetuity, which is the terminal value. In general, these models, whether they belong to the Dividend Discount Model (DDM), the Discount Cash Flow (DCF), or RIM (Residual Income Models) group, discount one attribute (dividends, free cash flow, or results) to a given discount rate. This discount rate, obtained in most cases by the CAPM (Capital asset pricing model) or APT (Arbitrage pricing theory) allows including in the analysis the cost of invested capital based on the risk taking of the attributes. However, one cannot ignore that the second stage of valuation that is usually 53-80% of the company value (Berkman et al., 1998) and is loaded with uncertainties. In this context, particular attention is needed to estimate the value of this portion of the company, under penalty of the assessment producing a high level of error. Mindful of this concern, this study sought to collect the perception of European and North American financial analysts on the key features of the company that they believe contribute most to its value. For this feat, we used a survey with closed answers. From the analysis of 123 valid responses using factor analysis, the authors conclude that there is great importance attached (1) to the life expectancy of the company, (2) to liquidity and operating performance, (3) to innovation and ability to allocate resources to R&D, and (4) to management capacity and capital structure, in determining the value of a company or business in long term. These results contribute to our belief that we can formulate a model for valuating companies and businesses where the results to be obtained in the evaluations are as close as possible to those found in the stock market.
The Effect And Influence Of Country-Of-Origin On Consumers Perception Of Product Quality And Purchasing Intentions
Authors: Kalicharan Harrychand D.
Published: March 2016

This study evaluated the effect of country-of-origin on consumers perception of product quality in developed and emerging economies. The author reviewed several empirical studies conducted over several years and found that when consumers were aware of certain country characteristics, they were more inclined to use country-of-origin as an external cue in evaluating product quality and guiding their purchasing decision process. Consumers conferred a higher evaluation of product quality on products produced in developed countries, owing to the technological advances and competitive nature of the markets in these countries. Further, the study revealed that in certain countries, consumers prefer products manufactured locally, owning to ethnocentrism and patriotism. It further identified the challenges faced by multinational corporations as they explore the possibilities of outsourcing the manufacturing of their products to international countries in an effort to reduce cost and maintain price competitiveness. However, given the continuous globalization of markets, it is possible to neutralize the effect of country-of-origin on the evaluation of product quality and the influence on purchasing decisions. Evidence from the literature revealed that if other forms of product quality attributes were highlighted during the products promotion and marketing campaigns, country-of-origin would have low effect on consumers perception of product quality.
Measuring Small Business Owners Differences In Moral Thought: Idealism Versus Relativism
Authors: Wiid Johannes A. , Cant Michael C. , Van Niekerk Claudette
Published: March 2016

The failure of internationally renowned organisations together with the global financial catastrophe in 2008, which emerged as a result of the collapse in corporate governance, in general, and business ethics, in particular, has led to an amplified focus on business ethics around the world. This has led to governments, private sector, and even individuals to call for stronger regulation and control of business practices in order to stamp out, or at least to reduce, instances of morally and ethically questionable practices.The main purpose of this study was to measure small business owners differences in moral thought based on idealism and relativism. This is measured by determining the ethical ideological classification of individuals based on Forsyths ethical taxonomy. The research followed a quantitative analysis and an online survey questionnaire was used to collect the data from Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) owners in South Africa. The results found that the majority of SME owners fall in the situationist and absolutist category of Forsyths ethical taxonomy.
A Model To Estimate Firms Accounting-Based Performance: A Data Envelopment Approach
Authors: Oberholzer Merwe
Published: March 2016

The objective of the study was to follow a logical inductive approach to develop a Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model to estimate the relative technical efficiency of firms. The Du Pont analysis theory as conceptual framework was applied using primarily readily available accounting line-items as input and output variables. From an interpretive epistemological paradigm and analytical reasoning, a new DEA model was developed with Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC), leverage and expenditure as input variables and revenue, net profit and Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) as output variables. The originality of this study is that this is the first effort to employ accounting data, based on the Du Pont analysis in a DEA model. All the input and output variables in the model were already used individually or in combinations by previous studies, except for WACC. The study argues that WACC should be employed as a proxy for the accounting line-items, equity and liabilities, since lowering WACC implies that firms are moving closer to their optimal capital structures.
The Relationship Between Financial Efficacy, Satisfaction With Remuneration And Personal Financial Well-Being
Authors: Vosloo Wilmie , Fouche Jaco , Barnard Jaco
Published: March 2016

Financial stress is a condition that is becoming more prevalent in todays society due to factors such as high debt levels, low savings and economic recessions. Research has found that financial stress negatively influences employees performance at work. With these increasing pressures on personal finances and its interference on work, this study considers whether management should attempt to improve employees financial well-being. Management needs to be convinced that their actions can improve their employees financial well-being. This study established and measured the relationship that the subjective measures financial efficacy and satisfaction with remuneration have on financial well-being. A sample size of 9 057 employees from different sectors in South Africa was used. Confirmatory factor analyses were used, as the survey was based on a previously developed survey and it was already known which items load onto which factors. Data was analysed using Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis. Three hypotheses were tested. Hypothesis 1: There is a relationship between satisfaction with remuneration and financial well-being. Hypothesis 2: There is a relationship between financial well-being and financial efficacy. Hypothesis 3: Financial efficacy moderates the relationship between satisfaction with remuneration and financial well-being. The results from this study supported all three hypotheses. Personal financial efficacy and satisfaction with remuneration were found to have a strong positive relationship with financial well-being. The study also established that the relationship between remuneration satisfaction and financial well-being was stronger in people with higher financial efficacy. It is argued that management can intervene with employees financial well-being by improving financial efficacy through financial education and by improving their satisfaction with remuneration. Satisfaction with remuneration can be increased by increasing actual remuneration and benefits, addressing administrative issues of the pay system, addressing staff morale or by increasing financial efficacy. Staff with higher well-being will contribute to the better performance of the entity.
Analysis Of Hotel Internet Booking Users
Authors: Andres-Martinez Maria-Encarnacion , Mondejar-Jimenez Juan-Antonio , Gomez-Borja Miguel-Angel , Alfaro-Navarro Jose-Louis
Published: March 2016

The number of tourist products sold on the Internet has increased remarkably in recent years. The hotel industry has figured prominently in this boom due to hotel bookings made via the Internet becoming increasingly popular. The reason for this upturn in online bookings is, in many cases, the possibility of booking at any time and the possible existence of lower prices. In order to achieve these lower prices, consumers must accept certain restrictions or conditions that hotels use to manage demand through yield management strategies.This paper analyses hotel Internet booking users in order to ascertain their socio-demographic characteristics and behaviour in regard to online purchase decisions. The ultimate goal is therefore to determine a user profile. With this information, hotel managers will be able to manage Internet hotel bookings.
Environmental Protection And Public Procurement
Authors: Alonso Patricia Dominguez , Moreno Molina Jose Antonio
Published: March 2016

European Union law has decisively influenced the development and recent evolution of national legislation on environment and on public procurement. One of the most important objetives of European Directives on public procurement have been to introduce environmental protection. But the principles of objectivity, transparency, publicity and non discrimination must be respect in all cases. These principles constitute at present the foundation of all public rules on procurement and are characterized by their transversality as they cover and are manifest in all stages of the contract, preparation and performance.
VAT And Electronic Books
Authors: Cerrillo Raquel Alamo , Rodriguez Ma Gabriela Lagos
Published: March 2016

The publishing sector has experienced an important change linked to the emergence of electronics books. This new reality has an impact in the cultural industry and demands the adaptation of public regulations that affect the production and consumption of cultural goods and services. For this purpose, the authors carry out an analysis of the legislation applicable to the cultural sector, focusing on the publication of electronic books, in order to meet the impact of these measures in the economy.The importance of public action is made clear in the protection of copyright and the fight against illegal access, in order not to reduce tax collection, because this could be negative for the support of the worselfare state.The analysis is carried out for the Spanish case, although the results obtained may be extrapolated to the rest of the states of the European Union, given that the regulations are community-based.
Tax Instruments Applied In Selected Developing Countries To Reduce Emissions From Electricity Generation Recommendations For South Africa
Authors: Dippenaar Mareli
Published: March 2016

The objective of the study was to compare the tax instruments (both incentives and disincentives) applied in selected developing countries (four BRICS countries, namely South Africa, China, Brazil and India) to reduce their emissions from electricity generation, in an attempt to identify areas for possible improvement or expansion in South Africa. Increased renewable energy, energy efficiency and research and development relating to these fields can contribute to the reduction of emissions resulting from electricity generation. A number of similar tax incentives were identified in the countries, the majority of which appear to be more beneficial in the comparative countries than in South Africa. It could be worth considering improving some of the existing incentives in South Africa to be more beneficial to taxpayers. In addition, a number of tax instruments that are applied in some of the comparative countries, were identified and suggested for consideration by the South African government.
Development Of A Conceptual Framework Regarding The Factors Inhibiting Teachers Successful Adoption And Implementation Of ICT In Teaching And Learning
Authors: Basak Sujit Kumar , Govender Desmond Wesley
Published: March 2016

This paper presents a conceptual framework regarding the factors inhibiting teachers successful adoption and implementation of ICT in teaching and learning, derived from an in-depth survey of the related literature. The aim of this study was achieved by identifying the factors that inhibit teachers adoption and implementation of ICT in teaching and learning. The main result of this study is a framework, derived from the existing literature, of inhibiting factors regarding teachers adoption and implementation of ICT in teaching and learning. The findings help to articulate issues related to teachers adoption and implementation of ICT and in this way contributes to the development of programs designed to address the relevant issues.
Industrial Cluster Formation As A Strategy To Diversify A Sub-National Economy: Illustrations From South Africas North West Province
Authors: Pisa Noleen , Rossouw Riaan , Viviers Wilma
Published: March 2016

Economic modelling techniques can assist policy makers to understand the effects of policy or external shocks and to make informed decisions about economic development programmes. Economic diversification is a priority of resource-dependent regions such as South Africas North West Province (NWP) in the wake of the 2014 platinum strike. The economy of the NWP is highly specialised and dependent on a few sectors - in particular, mining and quarrying. Both the NWP and the South African economies were adversely affected by a prolonged strike in the platinum sector.This paper sets out to illustrate the effects of industrial cluster formation as a strategy to enhance competitiveness in the NWP and diversify its economy using SAM multiplier analysis. The supported activity of eight of the ten industrial clusters was shown to be greater than the actual activity, indicating that industrial cluster formation will enhance economic activity in the NWP. Of the ten identified clusters for the NWP, four were found to be moderately integrated and to have high upstream effects. Finally, structural change in the NWP economy through industrial cluster formation was observed using economic landscaping. A key finding was that the identified industrial clusters are significant contributors to the structural change of the NWP economic landscape with the promotion of cluster-specific exports. It is recommended that the North West provincial government adopt this strategy with a view to enhancing competitiveness and economic diversification.
Students Computer Literacy: Covariate For Assessing The Efficacy Of Computer Assisted Learning Tools
Authors: Tidd Ronald R. , Fenzl Richard
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this paper is to focus attention on the need to more rigorously measure computer-specific student characteristics when assessing the efficacy of computer assisted learning tools and benchmarking a curriculum's impact. It accomplishes this by first modeling learning outcomes assessment, identifying appropriate instruments, and discussing the absence of such measures in accounting education research. Then, the measurement process employed by the authors is discussed. The unsurprising results reveal statistically significant differences in computer anxiety and perceptions of computer skills across the student population. The significant implication is that heterogeneity must be controlled for when assessing resource-intensive computer assisted learning methods: Failure to do so will impair educators ability to determine the efficacy of computer assisted learning and the curriculum's contribution to students development.
Modeling Determinants Of Debt Default In International Finance: Isolation, Magnitude, And Prediction
Authors: Vambery Robert G. , Gabberty James W.
Published: March 2016

The current Argentine debt crises scenario is representative of a climate of financial irresponsibility that does not show signs of waning and has regretfully become a permanent feature of the international financial landscape.This ongoing study examines the evolution of irresponsible borrowing and lending behavior. Through the development of interpretive graphical models, the study hopes to demonstrate the predictability of defaults and to help in the detection of their timing and magnitudes. The isolation of these two factors may assist the global financial community to develop strategies to forestall and/or soften the impacts associated with financial catastrophes of this type.
Observing Ethical Principles In Business: A Competitive Advantage?
Authors: Markesova Jana , Dohnal Mirko , Putnova Anna
Published: March 2016

There is an unwritten assumption that success and business ethics are closely interrelated, and that it is not possible, in a successful business, to disregard moral and ethical principles on the long run. Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to verify such an assumption.Knowledge of ethics and its relations with economics are vague, inconsistent, partially subjective and sparse. That is why it cannot be studied using traditional mathematical and statistical methods.
The Territorial Inequalities In The Location Of The Foreign Direct Investment In The 90s: The Spanish Case
Authors: Vazquez Raquel Diaz
Published: March 2016

One of the main characteristics on the world economy during the second half of the eighties was the boom registered by the international investment, in particular, going to the Spanish economy. But the nineties were also characterised by the consolidation of these Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows. In addition, the UNCTAD, in their World Investment Report (WIR) 2001, alert about a pattern of concentration of this FDI in the more developed countries in the last years that it is pushing to a concentration within a national environment in the more developed regions too. So, inside this context of concentration of the FDI in the international environment, and considering that the Spanish economy was one of the most important destinations for the FDI, the present paper wants to analyse if this same behaviour pattern of FDI is verified within the Spanish economy. The data will show that the geographical concentration of the FDI in the more developed regions exists and that is increasing along the time. A new strategy based on the relocation of foreign capital is generated from the international economic crisis. But the Spanish economy and, very in particular, the Madrids community, they have never stopped to be attractive for the foreign investor. Even, the concentration of the foreign capital in this region is intensified along the time, harming the less developed regions of the Spanish economy. So, this paper wants to get the attention on this high degree of concentration of this foreign capital in the Spanish economy in terms of other macroeconomic variables, as the GDP or the GFCF. As result, a very important presence of foreign capital in the more developed areas is verified. And wide differences with regard to the remaining regions are shown.
Fortress America As Created By NAFTA And Its Impact On Foreign Direct Investments
Authors: Gorjidooz Javad
Published: March 2016

The inauguration of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 1994 created an outstanding economic opportunity for all three members. It contains an ambitious schedule for elimination of all trade barriers in the NAFTA community. The free trade agreement encourages NAFTA members to share and complement each others resources, and to use comparative advantages and enhanced economies of scale to maximize efficiency and productivity. Accordingly, the insider MNCs can generate competitive advantage against outsider MNCs in their trading bloc and globally.If NAFTA could create such a positive economic impact for insider MNCs and negative economic impact for outsiders, how do foreign MNCs respond to this trading bloc? Particularly, how does the fortress America, as created by NAFTA, impact the foreign direct investment strategies of outsider MNCs?The analysis of investment patterns by foreign MNCs since implementation of the NAFTA indicates an increase in their foreign direct investments in the NAFTA community, particularly in Mexico. This increase in FDI by foreign MNCs could be explained in three ways: First, it is due to the fear of fortress America as MNCs invested in the NAFTA bloc to penetrate the regions open market. Second, investors are looking to capitalize on the tangible financial attractions of modern-day Mexico, namely its location as a Latin America gateway, affordable primary resources, and increasingly competitive open market conditions. Third, the MNCs who had capital and global plans for such intensive foreign investments had already permeated North America.
Truth In Accounting: Dont Let It Die
Authors: Mano Ronald M. , Durkee David , Mouritsen Matthew L.
Published: March 2016

Truth in Accounting, it seems to have a nice ring to it. Managed Earnings, this does not sound so good to us. This paper is about what is happening in the Accounting world and what needs to be done and by whom. This document highlights current and past events, such as Enron, Continental Vending and others, that have neglected to perpetuate truth in accounting.
Implementation Of FEDI: A Pilot Study On The Banking Industry In Malaysia
Authors: Raman Murali , Muthaiyah Saravanan
Published: March 2016

Financial Electronic Data Interchange (FEDI) refers to making cash payment electronically rather than utilizing any from of traditional payment methods such as checks The prime objective of this paper is to ascertain how is FEDI currently being implemented by10 anchor banks in Malaysia. Specifically this paper examines the current business process that facilitates transfer of payment received by banks to its various agents. The paper also examines the security or precautionary measures established by anchor banks while engaging in financial electronic data interchange.
Use Of A Real World Business Panel To Assist In MBA Program Outcomes Assessment And Curriculum Refinement
Authors: Glynn Joseph G. , Shick Richard A.
Published: March 2016

The world of business operates in an extremely dynamic environment. Domestic issues (competition, cultural diversity, regulation/deregulation) global issues (competition, economic, cultural/social, and political), and rapidly changing technologies all require business school curricula that are designed to be flexible and proactive as well as reactive. An ever increasingly important responsibility of schools of business is the assessment of outcomes of their programs. Outcomes may be measured on several dimensions. One such measurement is the assessment of the skills/abilities of its graduates. This work will describe the efforts of a business school to engage the local business community in that undertaking.