bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Navigating the Moral Compass: Business Ethics in the Banking Sector
Authors: Mihai Leța Florina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The banking sector appreciates business morals greatly; additionally, research has been done to find out their effects on organizational success capacities, stakeholders’ trust and the general stability of the financial system. This is a time of increased intricacy and interrelation which means that financial companies like banks especially worldwide’ economic systems being backbone must be ethically sensitive. The paper examines many aspects of corporate morality while applying them within bank operations one such area being transparency where all things done openly without concealment another fairness between different people so none feels oppressed lastly among others CSR which includes activities that benefit not only customers but also employees or even community. Based on a thorough investigation into academic literature, this article explains the real advantages of moral practices in banking. It looks at how ethical behavior encourages lasting customer loyalty and support from other stakeholders as well as strengthens financial institutions’ ability to endure. Moreover, ethical tests that banks come across during this era of technology are outlined while focusing on implications brought about by advanced systems towards data privacy, cybersecurity and fair lending measures. The urgency for the banking sector to take up and firmly establish moral considerations is underscored in this document, which evaluates reputational damage caused by moral breakdowns within the industry as well as on wider economy scale. The development and implementation of robust ethical frameworks are required, which are built on effective control systems to minimize the risks of unethical behavior in banks’ operating activities. These research findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on the place where business ethics and the banking sector intersect. The comprehension obtained can aid in decision making for policies, laws or strategies by financial institutions that want to foster integrity and responsible entrepreneurship.
The Impact of Mega Sports Events on the Strength of the National Soft Power: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Nicolescu Luminița , Barbu Alexandra 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This article examines the strategic use of mega sports events as a means to enhance national soft power, exploring the complex interplay between international sports diplomacy and geopolitical influence. The study will examine how these events serve as means of economic and cultural diplomacy and also as platforms for global interaction through a comparative analysis of countries that include South Africa, Brazil, Russia, Germany, and Qatar. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research synthesizes the existing literature and case studies to provide information on the objectives, strategies, and outcomes associated with hosting such events. This study aims to contribute to the larger discussion on soft power and its effectiveness in the modern international arena by analyzing the complex effects of these mega events on national branding. It does this by providing a nuanced understanding of how major international sporting events can affect geopolitical dynamics and shape international perceptions.
Measuring the Cultural Intelligence of Bulgarian University Professors
Authors: Sokolova Hristina , Ilieva Daniela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Cultural intelligence is a key success factor for academics and is required for the effective internationalisation of universities worldwide. The paper introduces the concepts of internationalisation and cultural intelligence. Characteristics of cultural intelligence and its connection to HEIs are described. The objective of the study is to measure the cultural intelligence of Bulgarian university professors according to Soon Ang’s cultural intelligence scale (CQS). Research methods include a questionnaire based on CQS, descriptive statistics and correlational analysis. The questionnaire was given to Bulgarian university professors (N=421) to assess the four components of CQ: metacognitive, cognitive, motivational, and behavioral. Three hypotheses were formulated in relation to CQ assessment. Results were analysed with SPSS software. Findings show that the first hypothesis, Bulgarian university professors do not experience communication difficulties when contacting foreigners and/or teaching foreign students, was confirmed. The second hypothesis that the cultural intelligence among Bulgarian university professors is well developed, was also confirmed. The third hypothesis, that there is an existing correlation between the teaching experience of Bulgarian professors and their cultural intelligence, was rejected. The overall level of CQ among Bulgarian professors is very high and it is not connected to their teaching experience. Professors demonstrate lower results mostly in the cognitive component. The reasons behind these results could be traced in Bulgarian cultural values, according to which being able to adapt and blend in foreign cultures is an asset and a desirable outcome. The paper concludes that cultural intelligence is applicable to internationalisation in higher education institutions (HEIs).
Empirical Evidences Regarding Okun's Law in the Central and Eastern Europe in the Post – Financial Crisis Period
Authors: Andreescu Francesca Dana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Numerous studies have been conducted based on Okun’s Law (1962), researchers proposing various approaches, while the two most common are the difference approach, which reflects the link between the variation of unemployment rate and the output growth, and the gap approach, which shows the relationship between the deviation of the actual unemployment rate from the natural unemployment rate and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gap. In order to see how the relationship looks like over time and how the Okun’s coefficient varies from country to country, this study analyzes the sensitivity of unemployment at output changes while carries out a comparative analysis for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries, regarding Okun's Law applicability in the post-financial crisis period, taking into consideration previous relevant researches. Therefore, the assessment is based on quarterly data, between 2010 and 2019, for unemployment and economic growth, recorded in five CEE countries, members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Romania. While the research is based both on the gap and difference method, it may lead to results sensitive to the method chosen in order to assess the unobservable variables, namely potential output and natural unemployment rate. In order to determine the structural components of the GDP and unemployment rate, it is used the Hodrick-Prescott univariate filter, applied on quarterly data. Before estimating the Okun's coefficient, the study also examines the causality relationship between unemployment and GDP using Granger causality test.
Country Brand as an Important Phenomenon of Modern Society
Authors: Madan Angela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The county brand in terms of valuing consumer well-being is essential to the brand-building process and is especially significant in today's globally interconnected environment. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the national initiatives and country product-origin on consumer-centered country brands. The research strategy was based on a quantitative and qualitative approach. The findings highlight the emergence of place branding, national initiatives, and country product origins in national areas. The study of country brands in the context of communication studies extends to tourism and cultural studies. The study's limitations included the fact that it was limited to countries on the inside. A broader study to represent the circumstances of other emerging countries was proposed. The contributions, both practical and theoretical, address the many-faceted complexity of the evaluated concepts, such as consumer-centered country brand, national identity, country brand, country image, and national reputation. There are several countries, including Eastern Europe, where the country's brand is still in the initial development stages. The practice of Romania might present the required knowledge of other country brands, and this study enables highlighting this aspect.
Analysis of Economic Convergence in the European Union
Authors: Lungu Adrian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The article analysis the economic convergence of member states of the European Union through ten main macroeconomic indicators. Employing a combination of statistical methodologies encompassing, such as descriptive statistics, multiple regression and ANOVA analysis, the research intends to reveal an updated outlook and also the big picture of economic convergence process within the European Union. Its results, analysing economic indicators, show the serious convergence trends between economies of EU-27 member states in general, but particularising, we can observe variations of the progress for each member state. Also, has been remarked that when the GDP per capita has increased in most of the member states, the differences have significatively decreased, these still exist. Moreover, convergence is discernible in inflation rates, unemployment rates, and trade balances. In the same way, the analysis pointed out also the differences that exist between member states, which have to be treated and separated, but together through inclusion policies, social and economic, to have as a final goal, the absolute convergence to be realised through shorter period of time than the actual trend. Premises, likewise, the realities that exist in the present can lead to a deeper and feasible convergence, even if it can offer the growing rhyme in comparing some states with others. In conclusion, the article highlights the fact that is much more than necessary that political strategies of member states individually, and also member states of the European Union to get together regarding aligning to the best economic and social level.
Active Turnaround and Restructuring Dichotomy under a Disruptive Eve
Authors: Lascu Eugen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Since the 1980s, humankind stepped into a disruptive era called “Disruptive Eve”, triggered by “Disruptive Innovation”, a concept consecrated by Clayton Christensen. This period has been marked by several disruptive factors such as specific technological advancements, economic trends, social changes, pandemics, and geopolitical events, making it stand out through its ever-increasing complexity and exponential developments. This volatile environment forces companies to face huge challenges. By far, the greatest challenges to deal with are business continuity, growth, and resilience capacity. To successfully provide these conditions, the company should embrace a new approach that this article is introducing, the new concept of Active Turnaround. Without this approach, it is difficult, if not impossible, to cope with all these intricacies, given such a complex and disruptive world. Active Turnaround is a key condition in providing “Preventive Leadership” and consecrating a new concept and practice, called “4As Leadership”, which is based on four imperative traits and capacities: Alertness, Agility, Anticipation, and Adaptability. Therefore, this article brings into debate several key concepts and processes that define and characterize Active Turnaround. The author presents the difference between turnaround and restructuring, details Active Turnaround as a vital condition of business continuity, growth, and resilience, and analyzes the diagnosis process as the active turnaround’s bedrock.
The Romania-Brazil Trade Relationship under the Threat of the Coronavirus Pandemic and the War in Ukraine
Authors: Trocinescu Beatrice , Dan Mihaela-Cornelia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The year 2020 began with a health crisis, asserted in the same year, as the coronavirus pandemic. In this sense, world governments have taken measures to protect their national economies, measures such as limiting exports or social distancing. In 2022, the economy showed signs of recovery, when in February, war broke out between Ukraine and Russia. Thus, the two events negatively impacted world trade. In this paper, the aim is to point out the impact of the health, economic and war crisis on Romania-Brazil commercial relations, in the period 2019–2023, on Brazilian investments in Romania and on Romanian investments in Brazil. Romania is part of the European Union, being also a military, humanitarian and economic support for Ukrainians. Otherwise, Brazil is part of a totally different political structure, being a partner and ally of Russia. A descriptive research will be carried out on Romania-Brazil trade, in the period 2019–2023, based on the information on the Comexstat platform. In order to identify Brazilian investments in Romania, the research will be carried out conformable of the information provided by the National Trade Registry Office, and the research on Romanian investments in Brazil will be carried out conformable of the information provided by Banco Central do Brasil. The year 2023 represents the best economic year for trade between Romania and Brazil from the period 2019–2023, as commercial exchanges increased by 16% in 2023, compared to 2019. Regarding Brazilian investments in Romania, they are increasing, but Romanian investments in Brazil are decreasing. This work is innovative, because it sheds light on the commercial relationship between two countries with a similar culture, during a period of crisis, countries that are located in two different political and ideological blocs.
The Use of Innovation: A Source of Competitive Advantage for Companies: Bearing Point Case Study
Authors: Vlad George 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This thesis explored the topic of “innovation as a competitive advantage” and how this factor contributed to the success of BearingPoint. It seems that innovation will be a matter of concern for all market participants who intend to maintain effective competition over a long period in the complex and volatile business environments. Initially the “innovation as a competitive advantage” was generally introduced and then an overview of existing studies on this topic was presented. It became evident that innovation was a factor that distinguished if companies remained successful for a long time on the market or not. Finally, an example from BearingPoint was described and discussed: a purely typology of innovation carried out from them with the help of qualitative research. For this purpose, an interview with the company’s executives was conducted in semi-structured format for flexibility and more likelihood of new input. Moreover, it was more beneficial to see various viewpoints and receive the maximum amount of data, so instead of one respondent, five BearingPoint executive managers from different departments were interviewed. The main topics that were addressed were: the flow of innovation from idea to implementation, obstacles and success factors. This case study provided an in-depth analysis on how innovation can create a competitive edge. One objective was to examine thoroughly how these innovations impact company success and demonstrate that they indeed enhance their competitiveness. In the final section there is concluded that innovation is indeed one of the key success factors that help companies achieve a better competitiveness and maintain a powerful market position for a long time. This study reveals relevant findings for companies that work in highly competitive market environments.
Moving Towards Green Farming: The Challenges of Implementing the Green Deal in Agriculture
Authors: Bucur Louisa-Maria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In recent years, there has been much discussion in the European Union about the Green Deal. As this plan is in full swing, it is worth looking at how it is implemented and how it is evolving with the goal of achieving its objectives. This article will examine just one of the objectives of the Green Deal, which is to increase the amount of agricultural land dedicated to organic farming. This article inspects the progress made between 2017 and 2021 in terms of the agricultural area dedicated to this objective, which is influenced by the demand for organic products, in other words the consumption of such products. The analysis of data on agricultural land in each EU Member State and organic food consumption shows that the Green Deal target of 25% of agricultural land dedicated to organic farming faces major challenges. Explanatory diagrams are used to highlight the differences between Member States and the main obstacles to achieving the target. Finally, the article points out that the differences between EU Member States in the implementation of sustainable and organic farming practices and the appetite for consumption of organic products means that disparities between them in the implementation of the Green Deal are large. These results could be a starting point for raising awareness of the importance and extent of organic farming practices and for getting more people to choose organic products.
Bibliometric Insights into Circular Economy Strategy: Mapping Key Research Streams
Authors: Cisma Timea , Agache Andrei , Ivascu Larisa , Coroian Alexandra 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The circular economy is a modern and captivating subject, even though different areas remain inadequately explored. Creating a circular economy strategy involves transforming the traditional linear model of production and consumption into a system that is more sustainable and regenerative. In order to create a circular economy plan, a comprehensive approach is needed in order to identify connections with relevant areas of interest. This study analyzes in depth existing research on circular economy strategies, offering a detailed perspective on the relationship between various elements. The methodology consists of a bibliometric analysis of Web of Science data from 2016 to 2023. The paper is structured around three main objectives. The main objective is to determine the most widely read articles, significant publications and understand how did the topic evolve. Secondly, a examination of keywords was performed on the top 100 most referenced publications in order to ascertain the main subjects associated with circular economy initiatives. Thirdly, in order to identify the most discussed points when addressing strategies in the circular economy, a key words analysis and a qualitive analysis was conducted on the same most often cited papers. The primary conclusion is that circular economy solutions are a significant and interesting topic, prompting extensive scholarly investigation. Within research, distinct streams are identified: Circular Business model, Framework and Methodology, Key elements and Capabilities, Assessment and Indicator, Barriers and Enablers, Network and Collaboration, Technology and Innovation, Costumer behavior and perspective, and Industry specific.
Exploring the Evolution of Sustainability Paradigms: From Linear to Circular Economy Models
Authors: Dabija Dadiana , Năstase Carmen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
As a response to the urgent environmental degradation and depletion of resources, this article analyzes the historical evolution from linear to circular economy models as a response for achieving sustainability. Tracing back to sustainable forest use proposed in 17th-century and evolving towards modern circular economy principles, there is a paradigm shift of decoupling economic growth from resource consumption. Moving through the landscape of sustainability, the paper criticizes the linear economy model that originated during industrialization period and was incapable of addressing sustainability. Key milestones, such as sustainable development, closed-loop-systems, and biomimicry, demonstrate the journey to current business models. An extensive literature review proves the interdisciplinary importance of circular economy research, exploring domains such as Sustainability Science, Management, and Bioengineering. The present research combines bibliometric analysis and systematic review on articles published between 2000 and 2023. These methods were chosen to assess the main directions of research for development of circular economy models, and recent trends. Research is centered around dynamics and trajectory of scholarly outputs on the topic, mainly those published in the past five years. A sharp rise in the number of publications regarding circular economy models is found, characterized by three notable inflections in 2017, 2018 and 2021. Two pivotal articles emerge as influential contributions. The interdisciplinary landscape of circular economy research is observed, covering diverse research areas such as Supply Chain and Logistics, Bioengineering, or Social Psychology. The cooccurrence analysis reveals 6 thematic clusters for which we propose a conceptual framework. The clusters are: environmental impact, sustainable development, interdisciplinary connections (niche sciences), circular supply chain, climate change, and IT-centric approaches that have emerged in research in the past five years. Insights from recent trends provide valuable guidance to researchers, professionals, and policymakers by using an interdisciplinary lens in the transition to a circular economy.
Use of Digital Media in the Public Sector
Authors: Dobre Florin , Popescu Maria Loredana , Pargaru Ion , Vatase Florin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In the current context, more and more public services are offered in digital format, the trust of users in these online environments is essential to ensure the adaptation and use of these services efficiently and effectively. The main aim of the paper is to investigate and identify the factors that positively or negatively influence users’ trust in public sector digital environments. The paper will refer to the way users interact with the digital services that the local public administration makes available. Based on the presented case study, it was possible to analyze the degree and mode of interaction of citizens with these online services. It could be concluded that the essentiality of increasing users’ trust in digital environments in the public sector, by improving the accessibility, security and quality of these services, is crucial for promoting their use and for encouraging citizens’ participation in the decision-making and administrative process. The most important factors that affect users’ trust in digital environments in the public sector are the transparency of information, but also the security of personal data, the quality of information and the accessibility of digital platforms for effective use, respectively services and information to be up-to-date, easily accessible and the platform to be easy to navigate to streamline time spent on the platform or work time for public sector employees.