Journal Description
Economies
Economies
is an international, scholarly, peer-reviewed, open access journal of development economics and macroeconomics, published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), EconLit, EconBiz, RePEc, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q1 (Economics, Econometrics and Finance (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 28.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 6.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.6 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.7 (2022)
Latest Articles
Country Economic Security Monitoring Rapid Indicators System
Economies 2023, 11(8), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080208 - 08 Aug 2023
Abstract
Time series analysis is a method of key importance for systems of various hierarchies’ economic security studies. This article’s main goal is to develop an economic security rapid indicators system, introducing threshold values and utilizing indices with a one-month sampling period, and its
[...] Read more.
Time series analysis is a method of key importance for systems of various hierarchies’ economic security studies. This article’s main goal is to develop an economic security rapid indicators system, introducing threshold values and utilizing indices with a one-month sampling period, and its approbation during Russia’s economic security operational monitoring. In order to develop such a system, the authors accumulated economic security world experience including reliability, visibility and tree structure principles. The authors’ monitoring system includes four spheres: real economy, social, monetary and foreign economic, each of which contains three indicators. In order to organize economic security monitoring, it is proposed to use the index method, which converts indicators into a dimensionless form with integral values in subsequent calculations. Based on integral indices values, the economic security generalized index is synthesized, which can be used to analyze a system’s development trends. We present economic security normalized indicators and integral indices dynamics for the years 2020–2022, which show two crises dynamics. The first is due the COVID-19 pandemic, while the second is associated with economic sanctions against Russia, implemented in 2022. The proposed economic security operational monitoring indicators system can be used effectively in the government’s practical tasks in order to ensure the required level of economic security. This is especially true for rapid diagnosis of crisis phenomena in countries and individual regions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic Development)
Open AccessArticle
Invention in Times of Global Challenges: A Text-Based Study of Remote Sensing and Global Public Goods
by
and
Economies 2023, 11(8), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080207 - 02 Aug 2023
Abstract
We study whether remote sensing (RS), a set of technologies with global reach and a variety of applications, can be considered instrumental to the provision of global public goods (GPG). We exploit text information from patent data and apply structural topic modeling to
[...] Read more.
We study whether remote sensing (RS), a set of technologies with global reach and a variety of applications, can be considered instrumental to the provision of global public goods (GPG). We exploit text information from patent data and apply structural topic modeling to identify topics related (or relevant) to GPG provision, and trace their participation in the evolution of remote sensing technology over time. We develop a new indicator of affinity to GPG (and other themes) using meta information from our dataset. We find that, first, RS displays features of a general-purpose technology. Second, while peripheral, GPG-relevant topics are present in the RS topic space, and in some cases overlap with topics with high affinity in AI and participation of public sector actors in invention. With our analysis, we contribute to a better understanding of the interplay between the dynamics of technology and (global) political economy, a field of research yet under-explored.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focused Issues and Trends in Economic Research from Germany)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Agri-Food Supply Channels on the Efficiency and Links in Supply Chains
by
, , , , , and
Economies 2023, 11(8), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080206 - 02 Aug 2023
Abstract
Improving the efficiency in the links in the supply chains of agri-food products is relevant in terms of the assessment methodology and practical aspects for ensuring and supporting sustainable supply chains of products not only in individual channels of product movement but also
[...] Read more.
Improving the efficiency in the links in the supply chains of agri-food products is relevant in terms of the assessment methodology and practical aspects for ensuring and supporting sustainable supply chains of products not only in individual channels of product movement but also in the end-to-end supply chain of products, i.e., from the field to the end consumer. However, it is still unclear which supply chain opportunities in commodity distribution channels are more effective for creating end-to-end sustainable supply chains for agri-food products. The purpose of the study is to develop a methodology for assessing the impact of agri-food supply channels on the efficiency and link in supply chains, taking into account the factors affecting them and developing recommendations for their improvement. Quantitative methods based on correlation and regression analysis using the EViews program on the basis of Kazakh statistical data for 2008–2022 were used. A methodology is proposed for assessing the effectiveness of the functioning and links in commodity movement in the supply chains of agricultural products at the macroeconomic level based on the consideration and use of important factors affecting the efficiency and links: production and sales volumes, total costs, and profitability for each supply channel: “production–processing–industrial production–trade”. The relationship between the efficiency and the links in supply chains and also the key factors that affect them have been established. The results showed that the increase in the efficiency in supply channels in the commodity distribution system leads to a decrease in the coefficient of the link in commodity movement and inventory availability. To reduce the link ratio in the supply chains of agri-food products, it is necessary to increase the efficiency in supply chains in each supply chain link and reduce the share of retail trade in the gross turnover. Recommendations are proposed to improve supply chain efficiency and reduce links to support and create end-to-end sustainable supply chains of agri-food products. The study makes an essential contribution to providing empirical evidence of the relationship between the effectiveness of agri-food supply channels and the link in the supply chain. Since few works describe the relationship between the links of product distribution and the efficiency in supply chains in the literature, in this work, it was possible to propose a methodology and identify factors and gaps in research to identify potential areas for future research.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drivers for Competitiveness in Agri-Food Sector and Development of Rural Areas)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Firms’ Use of Temporary Employment and Permanent Workers’ Concerns about Job Security: Evidence from German Linked Employer-Employee Data
Economies 2023, 11(8), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080205 - 01 Aug 2023
Abstract
This research note addresses the question of how permanent workers perceive their individual job security if their firm employs temporary workers with fixed-term contracts and temporary agency workers. One the one hand, the core-periphery hypothesis predicts that permanent workers should have fewer concerns
[...] Read more.
This research note addresses the question of how permanent workers perceive their individual job security if their firm employs temporary workers with fixed-term contracts and temporary agency workers. One the one hand, the core-periphery hypothesis predicts that permanent workers should have fewer concerns about job security if the firm employs temporary workers to deal with demand fluctuations. On the other hand, a counteracting substitution effect might increase concerns about job security. Using linked employer-employee data and estimating regression models at the worker level with establishment fixed effects, evidence supports the core-periphery hypothesis for temporary agency work but not for fixed-term contracts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focused Issues and Trends in Economic Research from Germany)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of the Effect of Human Capital, Institutionality and Globalization on Economic Complexity: Comparison between Latin America and Countries with Greater Economic Diversification
Economies 2023, 11(8), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080204 - 28 Jul 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The Latin American export in the manufacturing sector is 18% lower than the world average. Although between the 1980s and 1990s, the sophistication of exportable products increased by 13%, it is evident to see the low progress of the Latin American region to
[...] Read more.
The Latin American export in the manufacturing sector is 18% lower than the world average. Although between the 1980s and 1990s, the sophistication of exportable products increased by 13%, it is evident to see the low progress of the Latin American region to consolidate the change in its productivity and its dependence on oil extraction activities, minerals, and other raw materials. This article evaluates and quantifies the impact of human capital, globalization, and the role of the efficiency of institutions in the sophistication of production in Latin America compared to economies with greater complexity. This is conducted using panel data methodology with cointegration techniques, using data from 17 countries that belong to the continental part of Latin America and 10 countries with the greatest economic complexity according to the Atlas of Economic Complexity Index. These countries are classified by their income level, data compiled by the United Nations Development Program Indicators, the Harvard Growth Lab Atlas of Economic Complexity, the Swiss Economic Institute database, and the Heritage Foundation. The results indicate that there is a significant relationship between the explanatory variables and economic complexity. However, the nature of the relationships differs between the different income levels, finding the same trend in the cointegration analyses. It requires the adoption of public policies in the curricular and evaluative field of knowledge and skills as well as the fight against corruption in public and private sectors, motivating the improvement of bilateral relations with other countries in an economic, political, and social way.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Nexus of Banks’ Competition, Ownership Structure, and Economic Growth on Credit Risk and Financial Stability
Economies 2023, 11(8), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080203 - 28 Jul 2023
Abstract
The main object of this research is to find out the nexus of banks’ competition, ownership structure, and economic growth on credit risk and financial stability. In addition, it examines the level of financial stability, economic growth, and ownership structure in the Middle
[...] Read more.
The main object of this research is to find out the nexus of banks’ competition, ownership structure, and economic growth on credit risk and financial stability. In addition, it examines the level of financial stability, economic growth, and ownership structure in the Middle East and North African (MENA) economies. The generalized method of moments (GMM) method was used to examine this study. The study used an unbalanced panel dataset from 2011 to 2021 in MENA countries. This research demonstrates a negative relationship between economic growth, credit risk, and financial stability in MENA economies; nevertheless, it proves an insignificant effect among them. It also shows that the lower the level of bank competition, the lower the level of bank risk taking, and the better the level of financial stability. It further found that market competition and bank ownership structure had a homogenous effect on financial stability when looking at the impact of competition and bank ownership structure. In the long-term sense, the square term of competition is highly favorable with financial stability models ((Lerner square × Islamic banks), (Lerner square × commercial banks), (Lerner square × specialized government institutions)). However, financial stability improves with time, as seen by the competition square term bank ownership structure (a square measure of competition) with the Lerner index (LI) and the Herfindahl–Hirschman index total assets (HHIA). This finding of the square measure of competition is supported by competition stability theory. However, this study also proved that Islamic and commercial banks are less vulnerable to credit risk than specialized government institutions (SGI). This study scrutinized how MENA economies can remain stable through banking competition. This study builds a new brand of literature review. As a result, this research gives MENA policymakers better ideas for making policies that help the banking environment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Macroeconomics, Monetary Economics, and Financial Markets)
Open AccessArticle
Croatian Regional Export Value-Added Chains
Economies 2023, 11(8), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080202 - 27 Jul 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
This paper examines Croatian Regional Value Chains (RVCs). We use the value chain approach to study supply chains, examining data specifically for Croatia and its proximate trading partners in the European Union, as well as some other European countries. The value added in
[...] Read more.
This paper examines Croatian Regional Value Chains (RVCs). We use the value chain approach to study supply chains, examining data specifically for Croatia and its proximate trading partners in the European Union, as well as some other European countries. The value added in Croatian exports is statistically related to the value added in the exports of Croatian trading partners. We argue that Croatian RVCs are organized around regional production centers, with proximity to production capacity, raw materials, and customers as driving factors, and thus most of the value added originates in these RVCs. This paper emphasizes the advantages of representing trade through value added over traditional gross trade statistics and highlights the robustness of RVCs in Croatia to global shocks and transportation reliability issues. We conclude that despite its small absolute size, the Croatian economy is dynamically well-integrated into the EU RVCs, which is crucial for increasing business efficiency and competitiveness, notwithstanding the constraints of relatively low returns to scale. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of RVCs in Croatia and their potential benefits for Croatia in the global production organization.
Full article
Figure A1
Open AccessArticle
Evaluating the Hierarchical Contagion of Economic Policy Uncertainty among the Leading Developed and Developing Economies
Economies 2023, 11(8), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11080201 - 26 Jul 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
An array of global events, including the global financial crisis, natural disasters, and the recent coronavirus pandemic, have consistently shown the vulnerability of global systems and humans to externally undesirable contagions. In order to further provide alternative approaches to information valuation, this study
[...] Read more.
An array of global events, including the global financial crisis, natural disasters, and the recent coronavirus pandemic, have consistently shown the vulnerability of global systems and humans to externally undesirable contagions. In order to further provide alternative approaches to information valuation, this study utilized the economic policy uncertainty (EPU) of 21 leading developed and developing economies (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America) over the period January 1997 to May 2021. The information theory reveals the hierarchy of degrees of randomness in the EPU indices; it shows the information flow among the EPU indices through the mutual information metric and the graphical illustration of the information flows using network theory. Importantly, the Entropy measures indicate higher predictability of the Netherlands and Ireland’s EPU indices, suggesting that they have less randomness than other indices. Contrarily, Greece and the United Kingdom share the lowest predictability of the EPU indices. Moreover, the complex networks analysis shows that the EPU indices is generally shaped by geographic location. In order of significance, the United States of America’s EPU index exhibits the strongest correlation with other countries’ EPU indices and followed by the EPU indices of France, the United Kingdom (UK), and Germany. In general, the result of the investigation communicates relevant policy measures that potentially ameliorate shocks from external contagions.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Volatility of Copper Futures
Economies 2023, 11(7), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070200 - 24 Jul 2023
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced significant uncertainty across various economic sectors, most notably in the industrial sector due to the high volatility in copper futures markets. These markets play a crucial role in the construction, electrical networks, electronic products, and industrial machinery industries.
[...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced significant uncertainty across various economic sectors, most notably in the industrial sector due to the high volatility in copper futures markets. These markets play a crucial role in the construction, electrical networks, electronic products, and industrial machinery industries. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the volatility of copper futures returns from 2 January 2018 to 30 December 2022 using an extended ARMA(m,n)–GARCH(p,q) framework. According to the results, the occurrence of the pandemic nearly doubled the long-run equilibrium volatility of returns compared to the values obtained in the pre-pandemic period. Hence, we conclude that the COVID-19 pandemic has a significant influence on the volatility in the copper futures market.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Commodity Markets’ Reaction to COVID-19 Outbreak)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Linking Brazilian Regions to Value Chains: Is There a Potential for Regional Development?
Economies 2023, 11(7), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070199 - 21 Jul 2023
Abstract
This paper examines the subnational dimension of regional value-added transfers in multiscalar value chains in Brazil by analyzing the local content embedded in trade. This study reveals distinct spatial-based connectivity patterns within subnational and global value chains. An input–output model is employed to
[...] Read more.
This paper examines the subnational dimension of regional value-added transfers in multiscalar value chains in Brazil by analyzing the local content embedded in trade. This study reveals distinct spatial-based connectivity patterns within subnational and global value chains. An input–output model is employed to estimate the trade in value added from different Brazilian regions. The findings demonstrate that economically advanced regions, such as Southeastern Brazil, are both globally and nationally integrated and therefore stand to benefit from both types of integration. Conversely, subnational peripheries in the North and Northeastern states of Brazil play a crucial role in supplying raw materials for both domestic and global flows. These regions exhibit a clear profile of export dependency with low value-added content in trade. Consequently, our trade measures highlight a spatial concentration of development opportunities characterized by a distinct core–periphery pattern within the country. This imbalance in territorial capacity limits the potential for these regions to derive economic development benefits from integration into value chains.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Value Chains—Development Challenges in Uncertain Circumstances)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Career Trajectories of Higher Education Graduates: Impact of Soft Skills
by
and
Economies 2023, 11(7), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070198 - 20 Jul 2023
Abstract
The labor market can be a daunting place for young graduates; this paper aims to shed light on how they navigate it. By examining the ways in which they enter the workforce and the impact of individual and socioeconomic factors on their career
[...] Read more.
The labor market can be a daunting place for young graduates; this paper aims to shed light on how they navigate it. By examining the ways in which they enter the workforce and the impact of individual and socioeconomic factors on their career paths, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. We use a two-stage approach to study this issue: first, we create a typology of graduates’ integration paths and then estimate the likelihood of following a specific trajectory through multinomial logit analysis. Our findings reveal a diverse range of professional journeys, with graduates from open-access institutions facing higher rates of unemployment and continuing their studies, and women experiencing more precarious situations. This study stands out in the literature in several ways. Unlike previous research on the topic, we develop an index of soft skills that incorporates multiple dimensions. Additionally, we use individual data from a regional survey conducted by ANAPEC, making this the first study of its kind for Morocco. The results of our study can inform our understanding of the importance of soft skills for youth employability and the need for training policies in a rapidly changing job market. In terms of employment policy, our findings on the intertwining of first-time and long-term unemployment among higher education graduates suggest the need for a comprehensive strategy that focuses on the organization of the initial integration phase. To achieve this, the efforts of Career Centers must be broadened, consolidated, and evaluated.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Labour and Education)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Do Energy Prices Put the Tourism Sector at Risk?
Economies 2023, 11(7), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070197 - 19 Jul 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
This paper studies the effect of a shock in the hospitality sector, namely the energy price increase, with stated preference methods and performs the subsequent analysis with a mixture of quantitative and qualitative tools. The hospitality sector is very important and is the
[...] Read more.
This paper studies the effect of a shock in the hospitality sector, namely the energy price increase, with stated preference methods and performs the subsequent analysis with a mixture of quantitative and qualitative tools. The hospitality sector is very important and is the backbone of the tourism industry worldwide. We designed and administered two semi-structured anonymous questionnaires that were sent randomly to recipients for completion. One questionnaire investigated tourists’ behavior, visit and their stay and their spending intentions, whereas the second questionnaire investigated the hoteliers/managers estimations and beliefs on energy price increases and whether or how this price increase would have an effect on tourists’ behavior and their visit, stay and spending intentions in the destination. Through two surveys, we collected answers to questions for three consecutive years—2021: representing the past/before the energy crisis, 2022: the present/the time of the crisis breakout and 2023: the future/after the crisis outbreak. Overall, a lower tourist expenditure is found for the future due to the energy price shock, but there are no significant differences between the answers of the two groups. Our results are insightful for tourism policy makers, hoteliers and managers and particularly those economies that rely heavily on tourism, e.g., island economies.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Air Pollution and Health in Africa: The Burden Falls on Children
Economies 2023, 11(7), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070196 - 18 Jul 2023
Abstract
This study sought to examine the impact of air pollution on health in Africa. Air pollution is a major public health concern around the world. Exposure to air pollution has been linked to a slew of negative health consequences, ranging from subclinical effects,
[...] Read more.
This study sought to examine the impact of air pollution on health in Africa. Air pollution is a major public health concern around the world. Exposure to air pollution has been linked to a slew of negative health consequences, ranging from subclinical effects, physiological changes in pulmonary functions and the cardiovascular system, to clinical symptoms, outpatient and emergency-room visits, hospital admissions, and finally to premature death. Health impact assessments indicate that sub-Saharan Africa suffers a high burden of disease and premature deaths, attributable to environmental pollution in the world. The health and economic repercussions of rapid pollution increases could jeopardize African efforts to enhance economic development, establish human capital, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite all these, literature on pollution and health is still scanty in the case of Africa. This study was quantitative in nature, and it used a difference GMM approach to estimate its model. The GMM results showed that children are negatively affected by pollution. Children under the age of five are especially at risk, and the effects are believed to be most severe in developing countries, where exposure to high levels of ambient air pollution throughout childhood is thought to lower total life expectancy by an average of 4–5 years. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that African countries must not overlook the pollution problem. They must promote and use low carbon technologies and services. In the absence of active intervention, pollution will soon raise morbidity and death.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic Development)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Macroeconomic Drivers of International Bilateral Remittance Flows: A Gravity-Model Approach
by
and
Economies 2023, 11(7), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070195 - 17 Jul 2023
Abstract
This paper investigates the macroeconomic determinants of global bilateral remittance flows. Unlike existing studies, which have been often hampered by the lack of comprehensive and large-enough datasets, we use data originally covering 214 countries over the 2010–2017 period. We employ a gravity-model approach
[...] Read more.
This paper investigates the macroeconomic determinants of global bilateral remittance flows. Unlike existing studies, which have been often hampered by the lack of comprehensive and large-enough datasets, we use data originally covering 214 countries over the 2010–2017 period. We employ a gravity-model approach to explore the role played by dyadic and country-specific covariates in explaining remittances. We find that remittance flows are robustly and strongly impacted by size effects (i.e., number of migrants in the host country and population at home), transaction costs, common social, political, and cultural ties, output growth rate, and financial development at home. We also document the existence of a robust non-linear relationship between per capita income at home and remittance flows, both in the aggregate and across income groups.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic Development)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Role of Greener Innovations in Promoting Financial Inclusion to Achieve Carbon Neutrality: An Integrative Review
by
, , , , , and
Economies 2023, 11(7), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070194 - 17 Jul 2023
Abstract
In recent times, the green transition, by promoting carbon neutrality, has become highly imperative to meet environmental challenges. The present literature review study seeks to explore the intersecting role of greener innovations in facilitating financial inclusion for a sustainable future. Within the global
[...] Read more.
In recent times, the green transition, by promoting carbon neutrality, has become highly imperative to meet environmental challenges. The present literature review study seeks to explore the intersecting role of greener innovations in facilitating financial inclusion for a sustainable future. Within the global agenda is the goal of carbon neutrality, with the aim of reducing environmental impact and mitigating climate change. Aim: The present study aims to investigate the role that technological innovations play in the financial inclusion of achieving climate neutrality. Method: Through a systematic literature review, we investigate how new innovations generate new investment opportunities and promote sustainable development. However, fair, accessible, and inclusive financing is crucial. Findings: the analyzed documents in this study shows that technological innovations can play an important role in financial inclusion for carbon neutrality and provide some important policy implications. Indeed, a favorable regulatory environment could generate positive effects already in the short term, with important environmental, economic, and social repercussions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation, Productivity and Economic Growth: New Insights)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
New Evidence about Skill-Biased Technological Change and Gender Wage Inequality
Economies 2023, 11(7), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070193 - 17 Jul 2023
Abstract
In recent decades, the wage gap between higher- and lower-skilled workers has steadily widened around the world, and this gap is widening. There are several approaches in the literature to understand the causes of this steady increase, with Skill-Biased Technological Change (SBTC) being
[...] Read more.
In recent decades, the wage gap between higher- and lower-skilled workers has steadily widened around the world, and this gap is widening. There are several approaches in the literature to understand the causes of this steady increase, with Skill-Biased Technological Change (SBTC) being the most used and the results more consistent. This paper aims to deepen the understanding of this wage gap among workers in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries, using cluster analysis and then modeling through simultaneous equations for the period between 2007 and 2020. Albeit with varying intensity, we conclude that in all clusters, there is a strong influence of the wage gap of the less skilled on the widening of the wage gap of the more skilled, with this influence being even more intense in the case of women. The SBTC approach can also be detected in all clusters but with greater intensity in the case of countries that invest more in research and development (R&D). Education spending and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita also play a role in widening the wage gap as well as in reducing gender inequalities. We also conclude that each cluster has its specificities that justify the choice made and that a slow reduction in gender wage inequality is observed in all clusters.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Labour Economics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Moderating Effect of Business Environmental Dynamism in the Innovativeness—Company Performance Relationship of Congolese Manufacturing Companies
Economies 2023, 11(7), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070191 - 14 Jul 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Research has shown that innovativeness is a key factor in business performance. However, the link between innovativeness and organisational performance and the role of environmental dynamism are still being debated. This study thus sought to analyse the moderating effect of the dynamism of
[...] Read more.
Research has shown that innovativeness is a key factor in business performance. However, the link between innovativeness and organisational performance and the role of environmental dynamism are still being debated. This study thus sought to analyse the moderating effect of the dynamism of the business environment in the relationship between innovativeness and performance of manufacturing companies. In order to do this, a questionnaire was distributed to 344 owners and managers of manufacturing companies operating in the north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. One hundred and seventy-eight of these questionnaires were returned and used to test the study’s hypotheses. The study used an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression under the hierarchical regression analysis approach. The results confirm the positive and significant effect of innovativeness on company performance. On the other hand, results indicate that business environmental dynamism has a direct positive and significant effect on company performance. However, the dynamism of the business environment negatively influences the relationship between innovativeness and company performance. Based on these results, recommendations and further research perspectives are suggested.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Flexible Use of the Large-Scale Short-Time Work Scheme in Germany during the Pandemic: Dynamic Labour Demand Models Estimation with High-Frequency Establishment Data
Economies 2023, 11(7), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070192 - 13 Jul 2023
Abstract
Our study uses 24 waves of the survey Establishments in the COVID-19 crisis (BeCOVID), a high-frequency dataset collected at monthly intervals by the Institute for Employment Research during the COVID-19 pandemic, to investigate the behaviour of establishments with respect to the dynamics of
[...] Read more.
Our study uses 24 waves of the survey Establishments in the COVID-19 crisis (BeCOVID), a high-frequency dataset collected at monthly intervals by the Institute for Employment Research during the COVID-19 pandemic, to investigate the behaviour of establishments with respect to the dynamics of their employment, in particular their use of short-time work. Due to the high-frequency intervals, the present data are considerably better suited than annual panel surveys to investigate adjustment processes. This is especially true for the role of short-time work, which is seen as a particularly fast adjustment option and thus reduces adjustment costs rapidly. Our estimations reveal a much faster overall workforce adjustment process compared with previous studies, which rely on annual panel surveys. In addition, our empirical results show that the employment adjustment in establishments using short-time work during the COVID-19 crisis occurred almost immediately within one month.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focused Issues and Trends in Economic Research from Germany)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effect of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem of Universities on the Innovative Activity in Russian Regions
Economies 2023, 11(7), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070190 - 12 Jul 2023
Abstract
The entrepreneurial ecosystem of universities is frequently recognized to have a key influence on the innovative activity of the related regions. However, these relationships have not been explored in the scientific literature regarding Russia. Therefore, the current study aims to determine and identify
[...] Read more.
The entrepreneurial ecosystem of universities is frequently recognized to have a key influence on the innovative activity of the related regions. However, these relationships have not been explored in the scientific literature regarding Russia. Therefore, the current study aims to determine and identify the contours of the entrepreneurial ecosystem of domestic universities in terms of the innovative activity of subjects in Russian regions. The methodological toolkit covers methods for information processing such as monographic desk research, hierarchical cluster and correlation analyses, and comparative analysis. Applying a hierarchical cluster analysis, we grouped universities according to the level of entrepreneurial activity with the allocation of the average value in order to determine the existing correlations and elucidate the problems in involving university innovations in the ratings of innovative activity of regions. The results contribute to the development of existing approaches toward the study of the entrepreneurial ecosystems of universities through a deeper understanding of their role in stimulating the innovative activity of regions and transformation processes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regional Development: Opportunities and Constraints)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Faithful Finance: Unlocking Banking Islamization in Afghanistan
Economies 2023, 11(7), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies11070189 - 12 Jul 2023
Abstract
This paper explores the challenges and prospects associated with the adoption of Islamic banking in Afghanistan. Despite the global growth and acceptance of Islamic banking by approximately 50 countries by 1997, Afghanistan only embraced it between 2008–2009. The decision to convert conventional banks
[...] Read more.
This paper explores the challenges and prospects associated with the adoption of Islamic banking in Afghanistan. Despite the global growth and acceptance of Islamic banking by approximately 50 countries by 1997, Afghanistan only embraced it between 2008–2009. The decision to convert conventional banks to Islamic ones, driven by the involvement of interest rates (riba) in the prevailing system, necessitates a thorough examination of the challenges and the need for an appropriate response. The study employs qualitative, analytical, and exploratory methods, reviewing secondary sources and conducting unstructured interviews with key stakeholders, including officials from the Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB), staff of Islamic banking institutions, experts in Islamic banking and finance, and consumers. The findings reveal that the challenges in promoting Islamic banking in Afghanistan are more complex and multi-layered than commonly understood, stemming from the legal system, regulatory capacities and mindset, banking services, and public perception. The paper emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges comprehensively to safeguard the already fragile economic and financial sector. Failure to do so may lead to further deterioration. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on the unique challenges and prospects of Islamic banking in Afghanistan, providing valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and practitioners in shaping an effective transformation strategy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nexus between Politics and Economics in the Emerging Countries - II)
Highly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Education Sciences, Administrative Sciences, Economies, Societies, Sustainability
Effectiveness and Sustainable Application on Educational Technology
Topic Editors: Jian-Hong Ye, Yung-Wei Hao, Yu-Feng Wu, Savvas A. ChatzichristofisDeadline: 31 August 2023
Topic in
Economies, Future Transportation, JMSE, Sustainability
Recent Advances in Green Maritime Transport and Resilient Maritime Supply Chain
Topic Editors: Yui-yip Lau, Junayed Pasha, Maxim A. DulebenetsDeadline: 30 November 2023
Topic in
Economies, IJFS, JRFM, Sustainability
Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Disclosure and Financial Markets
Topic Editors: Shaista Wasiuzzaman, Wan Masliza Wan MohammadDeadline: 24 December 2023
Topic in
Economies, Energies, IJERPH, Resources, Water
Enabling Strategies and Policies toward a Sustainable Environment
Topic Editors: Abdul Majeed, Judit OláhDeadline: 31 December 2023
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Economies
Drivers for Competitiveness in Agri-Food Sector and Development of Rural Areas
Guest Editors: Monica Roman, Zdenka Zakova KroupovaDeadline: 31 August 2023
Special Issue in
Economies
Global Value Chains—Development Challenges in Uncertain Circumstances
Guest Editor: Ines Kersan-ŠkabićDeadline: 15 September 2023
Special Issue in
Economies
Economics after the COVID-19
Guest Editor: Sergio ScicchitanoDeadline: 30 September 2023
Special Issue in
Economies
Commodity Markets’ Reaction to COVID-19 Outbreak
Guest Editor: Ştefan Cristian GherghinaDeadline: 15 October 2023
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Economies
Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics
Collection Editor: Sanzidur Rahman