Abstract: This study explores the relationship between Climate Change Awareness and consumer willingness to pay for Urban Short Food Chains, focusing on the mediating role of biospheric, egoistic, and altruistic concerns. Whether driven by egoistic or altruistic motivations, the reduction of ultra-processed food consumption emerges as a key factor in consumers' willingness to pay a premium for products from urban short-food chains (USFC). The studies also show that urban residents often maintain a strong connection to the food traditions and products of their native regions, even after relocating to cities. This connection influences their food preferences and purchasing decisions, effectively bringing their "territory" with them to urban settings. This dynamic underscores the importance of promoting local, minimally processed foods, which align with these traditional preferences, while also addressing the broader environmental and social impacts of industrialised food production. By fostering these connections, urban food systems can become more sustainable, balancing cultural heritage with modern dietary needs.

Abstract: This paper studies the emission reduction effects of carbon trading policies based on synergistic mechanisms from market-oriented incentives, cost pressure, technological innovation motivation, and energy consumption structure optimization. Using provincial panel data from 2002 to 2021 in China, it specifies a multi-period Difference-in-Differences (DID) model to evaluate the effects of carbon trading policies on carbon reduction. In addition, it develops a mediation effect model to check the specific impact mechanism of the carbon trading policies. The results indicate that carbon trading policy has a significant effect on carbon emission reduction within pilot regions, especially contrasted without such policies. Moreover, regarding the operational mechanism, the carbon trading policy achieves carbon emission reduction mainly through market-oriented incentives and optimization of the energy consumption structure. However, the effects of promoting carbon emission reduction through cost pressure and technological innovation are insignificant. In the synergistic mechanism, the greater the role of the market-oriented incentives and cost pressure, the stronger the effect of carbon trading through the optimization of energy consumption structures in promoting emission reduction. Third, the results of regional heterogeneity tests indicate that regional differences focus more on green development which leads to heterogeneous effects of the carbon trading policy in carbon emission reduction. The carbon trading policy indicates more pronounced emission reduction effects in regions with higher levels of green development attention and higher levels of green financial development.

Abstract: Globally, financial inclusion is regarded as being crucial for balancing an economy's financial system. However, despite the significance of financial inclusion, it still needs to be clarified to what extent it is practiced in forty-five Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) from 1999 to 2024. The rationale of the study empirically investigated the determinants of financial inclusion in forty-five Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) from 1999 to 2024 in which cover three distinct periods but examined as a whole from 1999 to 2019 which is the pre-COVID, 2020–2022 is the COVID period, and the post-COVID period from 2023 onward for easy policy formulation for SSA countries. The study was anchored on main three research objectives, firstly to examined the factors influencing financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in these three distinct periods; secondly, discussed the roles of digital financial services usage in enhancing financial inclusion in SSA countries before, during and after the pandemic and lastly, present the policy implications of the result of these factors in enhancing financial inclusion in the post-COVID era in SSA. The study used Panel Least Squares (PLS) technique in the data analysis. The result revealed that economic growth (GRO), islamic banking (ISMAIC), money supply (MSS), internet users (USERS), credit availability (CREDIT) positively and Significantly enhance financial inclusion with a coefficient 0.001298, 4.926809, 1.08E-06, 0.459388, 0.657431 with a significant p-values of 0.0008, 0.0023, 0.0000,0.0000, 0.000 respectively. On the flip side, internet servers (SERVER) has a negative with significant coefficient value of 4.63E-06 with a p-value of 0.000. Though, inflation (INFLATION) and interest rate (INTEREST) have a negative coefficient values of -0.02853 and -0.08317 but has insignificant p-value impact of 0.2841 and 0.2501 respectively. The result indicates that many of the variables have a significant impact on financial inclusion. This is shown from the probabilities of the t statistics of each of the independent variables in the estimated model, which are significant at 5% level. The policy implications of these result include the following: firstly, SSA governments should promote economic growth through investment in productive sectors, infrastructure development, and job creation programs to indirectly improve financial inclusion. Secondly, SSA countries policymakers should maintain price stability through sound monetary and fiscal policies to ensure inflation does not hinder access to financial services. Thirdly, SSA countries governments and central banks should promote lower interest rates and enhance credit accessibility, especially for marginalized groups, through subsidized loans and targeted credit schemes. Fourthly, policymakers should support the expansion of islamic finance by improving regulatory frameworks and increasing awareness about Sharia-compliant financial products.

Abstract: The management of cross-docking platforms in Eastern and Central Europe faces in-creasing complexity amid persistent uncertainty and inflationary pressures. While artificial intelligence offers opportunities for innovation, capital costs remain significant, creating challenges for sustainable logistics operations. This study investigates strategies for reducing logistics costs through cross-docking while maintaining social responsibility standards in emerging markets. Our methodology employs a mixed-method approach incorporating pre-analysis of 33 recent bibliographical sources and quantitative modeling of cross-docking scenarios. We integrate environmental, social, corporate governance and artificial intelligence analysis using balanced scorecard criteria, alongside activity-based costing and corporate social responsibility implementation for resource management. The study examines three strategic cross-docking locations: Bratislava, Prague, and Budapest. Results demonstrate that optimized cross-docking operations achieve cost reductions of 10.61% for Eastern and Central Europe inbound logistics and 3.84% for Western European outbound logistics when utilizing the Budapest location. Activity-based costing analysis reveals labor (35-40%), equipment utilization (25-30%), and facility operations (20-25%) as primary cost drivers. The findings confirm that successful cross-docking in emerging markets require balanced integration of operational efficiency and sustainability practices. This research provides empirical evidence for logistics managers and policymakers, offering a com-prehensive framework for implementing sustainable cross-docking strategies in developing regions.

Abstract: Financial technology (FinTech) rapidly transforms financial landscapes across ASEAN-4 countries by enhancing financial inclusion and digital service accessibility. However, the key factors driving FinTech development in these economies remain ambiguous. While existing studies highlight the economic and technological aspects of FinTech adoption, limited research distinguishes the unique conditions shaping FinTech's evolution in developing ASEAN markets. This study bridges this gap by identifying economic and non-economic determinants and exploring their mediating effects. This research aims to investigate the primary drivers of FinTech development in ASEAN-4, emphasizing the roles of financial access and technological readiness as mediators in fostering a sustainable FinTech ecosystem. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS3, this study analyzes secondary data from 2008–2018, evaluating macroeconomic indicators, banking conditions, internet penetration, innovation levels, population dynamics, and human development factors. General banking conditions, access to finance, and technological readiness significantly impact FinTech development. Additionally, financial accessibility and technological infrastructure mediate the influence of economic stability, innovation, and digital penetration on FinTech growth. The study underscores policymakers' and stakeholders' need to enhance digital infrastructure and financial accessibility to accelerate FinTech growth. Strengthening financial ecosystems will drive digital transformation and economic resilience in emerging ASEAN economies.

Abstract: Maritime safety is a critical concern for the transport sector and remains a key challenge for the international shipping industry. Recognizing that maritime accidents pose significant risks to both safety and operational efficiency; this study explores the application of Big Data analysis techniques to understand the factors influencing Maritime Transport Accidents (MTA). Specifically, using extensive datasets derived from vessel performance measurements, environmental conditions, and accident reports, it seeks to identify the key intrinsic and extrinsic factors contributing to maritime accidents. The research examines more than 90 thousand incidents for the period 2014–2022.

Abstract: This paper presents an adaptive, inclusive, and sustainable framework for the design protection, and development of Bajo community living spaces in Indonesian waters, inspired by the Funaya model in Japan. The framework was developed using the Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) method, integrating the principles of rights, restrictions, and responsibilities (RRRs) to address challenges in coastal management, cultural preservation, and economic sustainability. Key strategies include design protection based on zonation and space, the application of the principles of RRRs, and the adaptation of the Funaya model. This approach emphasizes participatory governance, legal certainty, and community empowerment through training and incentives. The Funaya adaptation integrates the preservation of traditional houses and tourism development to enhance cultural and economic resilience. While its implementation requires significant resources, the expected benefits include environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and improved livelihoods for the Bajo people. This framework serves as a replicable model for integrated coastal management across Indonesia.

Abstract: We are witnessing a fundamental shift in the global economic landscape. The traditional extractive capitalism model—characterized by short-term profit maximization, financial speculation, and unchecked resource depletion—has led to market failures, wealth inequality, and environmental degradation (Piketty, 2014; Stiglitz, 2019) [1,2]. While ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks and impact investing have emerged as corrective measures, their effectiveness has been severely undermined by greenwashing, misallocated capital, and short-term financial engineering (Financial Times, 2023; UNDP, 2022) [3,4]. This paper presents Ecosystem Economics of Mutuality (EEoM)—a paradigm shift beyond sustainability, redefining economic ecosystems to ensure capital continuously circulates within financial, industrial, and social networks. EEoM is a multi-capital economic model that aligns financial, social, human, natural, and trust capital in economic decision-making, surpassing traditional ESG and impact investing frameworks (Raworth, 2017; MacArthur, 2015) [5,6]. At the heart of this transformation is Mangroves Mutuality, a structured investment vehicle that applies EEoM principles at scale. Unlike conventional impact funds that lack reinvestment accountability, Mangroves Mutuality ensures investments actively regenerate industries, supply chains, and communities—rather than merely sustaining them (Greening the Blue Ocean, 2024) [7]. Key Contributions of EEoM in this Study: ✔ Capital Reinvestment Cycles—Shifting from wealth extraction to regenerative capital flows that sustain long-term economic resilience.✔ AI-Powered Governance—Leveraging blockchain-based transparency to eliminate ESG fund misallocation and prevent greenwashing (Blockchain Research Institute, 2023) [8].✔ Scalability and Policy Integration—Proposing public-private investment models that enable EEoM to scale across global financial markets, with Singapore as the launchpad (Building ASEAN’s Regenerative Economy, 2024) [9]. Using case study analysis, policy review, and AI-driven financial modeling, this study demonstrates how EEoM can:✅ Reduce ESG fund misallocation by at least 50%, ensuring capital is reinvested into verifiable regenerative systems (Financial Times, 2023) [10]. ✅ Enhance multi-capital returns, delivering 18-30% higher ROI compared to conventional ESG funds (WEF, 2023) [11]. ✅ Enable systemic economic transformation, ensuring long-term alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (UNDP, 2022) [12]. This paper serves as a strategic blueprint for policymakers, investors, and businesses—providing a funding model and investment thesis for capital markets seeking beyond-sustainability financial instruments.

Abstract: This study investigates the dynamics of collaborative innovation among Norwegian firms, focusing on the configurations of innovation activities, collaborative relationships, and technology investments that drive value capture. Addressing the challenges and opportunities within Norway's unique economic context, the research examines how different types of collaborative partnerships impact firm innovation performance. Utilizing data from the Innovation Norway Business Survey (2018-2022), a mixed-methods approach combining descriptive statistics and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) was employed. The descriptive analysis revealed significant variance in innovation adoption among firms, while fsQCA identified key configurations associated with high value capture. Results indicate that selective collaboration, particularly when coupled with process innovation and strategic technology investments, outperforms pure strategies. The study highlights the importance of aligning collaborative initiatives with digital capabilities and adapting to specific regional conditions. These findings offer actionable insights for Norwegian firms and policymakers seeking to foster a resilient innovation ecosystem. They contribute to a more nuanced understanding of effective collaborative innovation strategies, emphasizing the context-specific nature of successful value capture in the digital age. They extend previous understanding by showing the importance of innovation, technology and relationships.

Abstract: In recent years, the significance of social capital in brand management has gained increasing attention, particularly within the context of sports organizations in Iran. This study aims to explore innovative strategies for integrating social approaches into brand management to enhance social capital effectively. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study was conducted in two phases: a qualitative phase involving interviews with 15 experts in sports branding and a quantitative phase surveying 326 postgraduate students specializing in sports management across various universities in Iran. The qualitative data were analyzed through thematic coding to develop a standardized questionnaire, which was then administered to the quantitative sample. Statistical analyses, including Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), were employed to validate the proposed model. The results indicated significant relationships between brand knowledge, brand satisfaction, brand loyalty, and community engagement, highlighting the critical role of trust and shared values in fostering social capital.Notably, 78% of respondents reported that brands demonstrating social responsibility positively influenced their purchasing decisions and community involvement. This finding underscores the potential of socially-oriented branding strategies to enhance consumer loyalty and brand advocacy. Furthermore, the study reveals that a well-structured brand community can serve as an effective mechanism for building social capital, thereby improving organizational performance and community well-being.This research contributes valuable insights into the interplay between brand management and social capital within the Iranian context, emphasizing the necessity for brands to adopt strategies that prioritize community engagement and social responsibility. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the sustained impact of these strategies on consumer behavior and community dynamics.

Abstract: The paper examines nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standpoint with a combination of econometric and machine learning specifications to uncover global trends and policy implications. Results show the overwhelming effect of ESG factors on emissions, with intricate interdependencies between economic growth, resource productivity, and environmental policy. Econometric specifications identify forest degradation, energy intensity, and income inequality as the most significant determinants of N₂O emissions, which are in need of policy attention. Machine learning enhances predictive power insofar as emission drivers and country-specific trends are identifiable. Through the integration of panel data techniques and state-of-the-art clustering algorithms, the paper generates a highly differentiated picture of emission trends, separating country groups by ESG performance. The findings of the study are that while developed nations have better energy efficiency and environmental governance, they remain significant contributors to N₂O emissions due to intensive industry and agriculture. Meanwhile, developing economies with energy intensity have structural impediments to emissions mitigation. The paper also identifies the contribution of regulatory quality in emission abatement in that the quality of governance is found to be linked with better environmental performance. ESG-based finance instruments, such as green bonds and impact investing, also promote sustainable economic transition. The findings have the further implications of additional arguments for mainstreaming sustainability in economic planning, developing ESG frameworks to underpin climate targets.

Abstract: This study adopts the affine term structure three-factor models outlined by \cite{dai2000specification}, aiming to analyse South African (SA) government bond yields across various maturities. The primary objective is to evaluate whether these models offer robust pricing capabilities—being both admissible and flexible—while capturing the conditional correlations and volatilities of yield factors specific to SA bond yields. For a model to be considered admissible, it must also demonstrate economic identification and maximal flexibility. We thus investigate the short-, medium-, and long-term dynamics of bond yields concurrently. Model estimation involves deriving joint conditional densities through the inversion of the Fourier transform applied to the characteristic function of the state variables. This enables the use of maximum likelihood estimation as an efficient method. We assume that the market prices of risk are proportional to the volatilities of the state variables. The analysis reveals negative correlations between factors. Among the models tested, the $A_1(3)$ model outperforms the $A_2(3)$ model in terms of fit, both in-sample and out-of-sample.

Abstract: This study explored the advantages and challenges of the dual-class share structure in initial public offerings (IPO). It used Alibaba’s 2014 IPO as a key case study. Alibaba benefited from this structure in multiple ways. It enabled long-term strategic decision-making by insulating management from short-term market pressures, preserved the company’s founder-driven culture to maintain its entrepreneurial vision, attracted patient investors aligned with its growth strategy, and protected against hostile takeovers. These advantages contributed to Alibaba’s sustained innovation and market leadership. However, challenges associated with the dual-class share structure were observed in other companies. Key concerns included excessive managerial entrenchment, which limited shareholder influence, increased agency costs due to the separation of voting rights from financial ownership, and reduced transparency in corporate governance. Additionally, controlling minority structures amplified governance risks, allowing insiders to wield significant control despite holding a minimal economic stake, leading to potential conflicts of interest. While the dual-class share structure provided strategic advantages, its risks highlighted the need for investor protection and regulatory oversight. Potential reforms, such as sunset provisions, increased transparency, and stricter board independence, could have helped balance founder control with shareholder interests. Our study contributed to the ongoing debate on corporate governance by assessing the tradeoffs between long-term strategic autonomy and investor accountability.

Abstract: This research examines the influence of integrated marketing strategies (IMS) on supply chain efficiency inside retail enterprises. As retail firms endeavor to satisfy escalating consumer expectations and enhance operational procedures, the alignment of marketing strategies with supply chain activities has emerged as a key success element. The study examines how the amalgamation of these two domains promotes decision-making, elevates customer happiness, and propels overall corporate success. The research used a qualitative methodology to examine interviews with key stakeholders from retail enterprises, concentrating on the collaboration between their marketing and supply chain activities to optimize operations. Research indicates that optimal collaboration between marketing and supply chain divisions enhances product availability, ensures timely delivery, and minimizes inefficiencies. Moreover, technology integration, including predictive analytics and cloud-based systems, was seen as a crucial facilitator, offering real-time data for enhanced forecasting and inventory management. The paper also emphasizes problems such resource limitations, technical obstacles, and organizational opposition that may impede the effective adoption of IMS. The study underscores that robust leadership, explicit communication, and a collaborative culture may surmount these challenges. The research concludes that integrated marketing tactics are vital for optimizing supply chain efficiency, augmenting consumer happiness, and securing a competitive edge in the retail sector. Retail enterprises that engage in the integration of these services will be more adept at addressing the requirements of a swiftly changing market.

Abstract: This study models sustainable food consumption behaviour (FCB) using an integrated framework combining Social-Ecological Systems (SES) theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Study addresses critical gaps in understanding of FCB by incorporating Consumer Psychological Resilience (CPR) and Consumer Psychological Adaptability (CPA). Study synthesises insights form 144 peer-reviewed articles through a systematic narrative literature review using SCOPUS and Google Scholar databases. Findings reveal resilience maintains sustainable practices under adversity, while adaptability fosters flexibility in dynamic environments. This dual focus helped the study to bridge macro-level ecological insights with individual level psychological factors, hence extending the TPB’s predictive power to address external barriers in sustainable consumption behaviour. The study provides actionable insights for fostering resilience and adaptability, supporting scalable sustainable initiatives. The study operationalizes resilience and adaptability at the individual level through SES and TPB integration. Therefore, the research lays the groundwork for future empirical validation across diverse cultural and economic contexts.

Abstract: This paper explores the effectiveness of an innovative risk scoring FinTech model to predict the risk appropriate return of short-term credit sales. The risk score serves to mitigate the information asymmetry between the seller of receivables (“Seller”) and the purchaser (“Funder”), at the same time provides opportunity to the Funder to earn returns as well as diversify their portfolio on a risk appropriate basis. Selling receivables/credit to potential Funders at a discount helps Sellers maintain their short-term financial stability and provide the necessary cashflow for operations and other immediate financial needs. We use 18,304 short-term credit sales transactions between April 23, 2020, and September 30, 2022, from a private FinTech startup, and its Sustainability, Underwriting, Risk, & Financial (SURF) risk-scoring system to analyze the risk return relationship. The data includes risk scores for both Sellers of receivables (e.g., invoices) along with the Obligors (firms purchasing goods and services from the Seller) on these receivables, and provides, as outputs, the mutual gains by the Sellers and the financial institutions or other investors funding the receivables. Our analysis shows that the SURF score is instrumental in mitigating the information asymmetry between the Sellers and the Funders and provides risk appropriate periodic returns to the Funders across industries. A comparative analysis shows that the use of SURF technology generates higher risk appropriate annual internal rate of returns (IRR) as compared to nonuse of the SURF scoring system in these transactions. While Sellers and Funders enter in a win-win relationship (in the absence of a default), generally Sellers of credit are not often scored based on the potential diversification by industry classification. Crowdz’s SURF technology does so and provides the Funders with diversification opportunities with numerous invoices of differing amounts and SURF scores in a wide range of industries. The analysis also shows that Sellers generally have lower financing stability compared to the Obligors (payers on receivables), a fact captured in the SURF scores.

Abstract: This study investigated how factors such as ownership structure, organizational maturity, corporate governance, and gender diversity influence the sustainability performance of Brazilian companies, as measured by the Corporate Sustainability Index (ISE). It is justified by the gap in integrated research in emerging contexts and the need to understand mechanisms that mitigate structural challenges. The objective was to analyze the interaction of these elements using quantitative methods (Probit and Logit regressions) on secondary data from 564 companies listed on the Brazilian stock exchange (B3) between 2015 and 2022. Results showed that higher foreign participation and organizational maturity are negatively correlated with sustainability, aligning with Agency Theory, which highlights the prioritization of immediate returns. In contrast, inclusive governance (independent members and expanded boards) and gender diversity positively impacted performance, supporting Stakeholder and Critical Mass Theories. However, CEO duality did not prove statistically significant. The contributions are theoretical and practical: they reinforce models that integrate sustainability barriers and facilitators and underscore the need for policies that prioritize diverse boards to mitigate risks in traditional structures. In summary, the research demonstrates that diversity and inclusive governance are essential to overcoming challenges and informing multidisciplinary strategies and public policies.

Abstract: This study examines the economic impact of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) on banana cultivation costs in Ecuador. Comparative analysis of data from 150 FPC members and 150 non-members reveals that collective action through FPCs significantly reduces cultivation costs across multiple input categories. FPC members experienced statistically significant reductions in human labour (-10.53%), machine labour (-36.84%), fertilisers (-19.19%), and plant protection chemicals (-19.13%), resulting in an overall cost reduction of 13.87%. Concurrently, FPC members achieved 18.28% higher yields (11 tonnes/acre versus 9.3 tonnes/acre), which translated to 26.73% higher gross returns and 77.36% higher net returns compared to non-members. These benefits stem from bulk procurement advantages, resource-sharing mechanisms, and technical advisory services facilitated through the FPC structure. The findings demonstrate that FPCs effectively address the structural challenges faced by smallholders through economies of scale and enhanced bargaining power, presenting a viable pathway for improving profitability and sustainability in Latin American banana cultivation. This research contributes quantifiable evidence to support the promotion of farmer collectives as an effective intervention for rural economic development and agricultural policy reform.

Abstract: Femvertising is increasingly being used by brands to showcase their values and attract consumers, especially in the fashion industry. Previous studies mainly focused on its impact on female consumers, while the perceptions and responses of male consumers are usually ignored. Focusing on the context of men purchasing women’s clothing as gifts, this study explored the impact of femvertising on male consumers’ gift purchasing intention, and examined the mediating role of perceived female empowerment and the moderating role of gift recipients. A situational experiment was conducted to acquire data, and hypotheses were tested with regression analysis and bootstrapping method. The results demonstrated that the overall effect of femvertising on male consumers’ gift purchasing intention is not significant, but there is a significant and positive mediating effect of perceived female empowerment in it, and the mediating effect is stronger for a communal relationship (versus exchange relationship).

Abstract: This study examined the influence of inward foreign direct investment (IFDI) on innovative entrepreneurship across 30 Chinese provinces and three regions (eastern, central and western). Using nine years of panel data (2010-2018) and a fixed-effects model, we demonstrate that economic institution is a pivotal link connecting IFDI and innovative entrepreneurship. Our findings reveal that marketization exerts a significant partial mediating effect in eastern China, but this mediating role is not evident in the central and western regions. These results underscore the importance of regional institutional development in maximizing the potential spillover effects of IFDI. To optimize these spillovers, China should adopt regionally differentiated strategies to enhance economic institutions, and foster the robust growth of domestic innovative entrepreneurship. This study contributes to the literature on the debate about IFDI and innovative entrepreneurship by highlighting the mediating role of economic institutions and providing policy insights for governments and enterprises.