American Research Journal of Business and Management

Kemer Tura1*, Lemma Fita2

This study was undertaken with the objective of analyzing factors affecting milk market participation and volume of milk supply in urban and peri – urban areas of Ambo and Dendi Districts, West Shewa Zone. The study made use of primary data collected from 146 smallholder milk producers who selected randomly out of 2235 total households.The data were collected through application of individual interview schedules.The analysis was made by using both descriptive statistics and Heckman two-stage econometric model.From all dairy producing sample households, about three fourth of the households (74.7%) were market participants during the survey period.The first step of the Heckman two stages procedures results showed that dairy household milk market participation was significantly and positively affected by age of the household head, number of cross breed milking cows, access to extension services, access to milk market information and access to credit services while it was affected negatively and significantly by sex of the household head and distance to the nearest market. In addition, the second stage heckman estimation result point out thatnumber of cross breed milking cows, access to extension service, access to information and financial income from non -dairy sources are an important factors affecting sale volume of milk significantly and positively while Landholding size was found to affect volume of milk supply negatively.The finding implies that policy aiming at improving extension access through training farmers, Awareness creation on credit service terms and conditions,price information dispersion through public sector such as extension agentshould be facilitated in order to enhance producer’s milk market participation and level of participation. Moreover, integration of cross breed cows to the smallholder’s dairy sector through improving their access to improved cattle breeds is an important issue to increase milk yield per day per household which in turn increase milk market participation and sale volume of milk.

Clovis de Faro1, Gerson Lachtermacher2 

Although not very popular neither in Brazil nor in Italy, the German and Tedesco systems of debt amortization have been discussed both in the Brazilian specialized literature, as well in the corresponding Italian literature. Both methods are characterized by the payment of the interest in advance, at the beginning of the period, and constant installments. However, they have different ways of determining the interest, amortization and installment. In this article we highlight the differences and compare both methods to the so-called French methods to determine which of them is a better option for the financial institution providing the loan.

Sandeep Matharoo

The article addresses the role of Enterprise Architecture in the process of digital transformation within the energy sector. The relevance of the topic is driven by the rapid development of digital technologies and the need for their correct and timely integration into the traditional business models of the industry to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and resilience of enterprises. The purpose of this study is to identify key aspects of the interplay between digital transformation and Enterprise Architecture in companies operating in the energy field, and to develop recommendations for optimization in this direction. Through analysis, the author identified contradictions between the need to implement innovative digital solutions and the established organizational structures of energy enterprises, as well as between the drive for rapid digitalization and the assurance of cybersecurity and sustainable development. The author concludes that successful digital transformation must rely on carefully considered and comprehensive approaches to Enterprise Architecture reform, including the revision of business processes, organizational structures, and internal corporate culture. This article will be useful for managers and specialists in energy companies involved in strategic development and digital transformation, as well as researchers in energy sector management and information technologies.

Peter A.Vuhya1, Dennis M. Bulla2, Benedict O. Alala3

This study investigates how liquidity moderates the relationship between corporate governance practices and the dividend policy of deposit-taking SACCOs in Kenya. Using a sample of 201 SACCOs, we applied both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to analyze the data. The results show that liquidity significantly moderates the impact of corporate governance on dividend policy. Specifically, robust board characteristics, well-composed audit committees, ownership structures, and transparent financial reporting positively influence dividend policy, with these effects being more pronounced under higher liquidity levels. The findings suggest that enhancing liquidity management can amplify the positive effects of corporate governance practices on dividend distribution decisions. 

Dr. Daryl D. Green, Dr. Devi Akella

Background: In the United States, many businesses have pinpointed deficiencies in today’s college graduates in meeting their job requirements. According to a McGraw-Hill Education study, only four in ten college students feel prepared for a future career. Purpose: This paper considers the experiential pedagogical strategy of micro internships to develop work-ready students, meeting the expectations and requirements of prospective business employers. Methodology/Approach: Drawing upon the theoretical concepts of Situated Learning Theory and a real-life case study example based on a higher education institution in the United States (US), the authors illustrate how micro internships can be integrated within a business curriculum and its benefits. Findings/Conclusion: This paper utilizes a case study to demonstrate how micro-internships can be practically applied in college classrooms. In addition, the positive aspects of micro internships vs. traditional internships, student learning outcomes, and related career-readiness skills associated with micro-internships are illustrated and emphasized. Implications: This study is significant and relevant to today’s higher education environment. It examines how Generation Z students currently enrolled in colleges and universities can be better prepared for future business employment by infusing various career readiness approaches in specific micro internships.

Joshua Song

Decision-making under risk and uncertainty is a critical aspect of various disciplines, including economics, psychology, and management. This paper explores the theoretical foundations, models, and practical applications of decision making processes in uncertain environments. By examining historical developments, current methodologies, and future directions, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how individuals and organizations navigate risk and uncertainty. The analysis includes an overview of expected utility theory, prospect theory, and behavioral approaches, highlighting their contributions and limitations. Practical implications for risk management and policy-making are also discussed.

Dr. Adina Mihăilescu

Due to the constant increase in the flow of data, machine learning systems, cost reduction and innovations are becoming a business reality, the order of the day, and digitization practices enable completely new business models. Thus, digitization can be considered a completely new factor of production, reversing the trend of the last years of decreasing profits, by optimizing processes. Intelligent automation systems improve human work and contribute to the continuous innovation process. Digital transformation is essential for micro, medium and multinational companies if they want to remain competitive. Companies must keep up with the development of digitalization, which does not only refer to meeting the needs of the market, but is one of the main pillars of successful operation. If this is missing, the company ends up in a foundation from which there may be no escape, no way out. The digital transformation affects different operational processes of a company, which, as far as possible, are placed on a digital basis. This transition means such a new strategic tool, which allows a revolution of innovation and the construction of a new business model.

Dinesh Kumar Mishra1, Dr. Pramod Gupta2 

The marketing environment throughout all sectors, especially fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), is being revolutionized by the rise of digital media. Every FMCG product campaign has traditionally been based on the right marketing mix of the 4 Ps (Product, Pricing, Place, and Promotion) to influence the purchasing decisions of the targeted audience. However, today’s customers use a variety of factors to make their final purchase selections, which has led to the development of new methods for swaying their preferences. COVID-19 bolstered the rising popularity of online financial transactions, via mobile apps, and directly with companies. 

Dinesh Kumar Mishra1, Dr. Pramod Gupta2 

The Indian companies are identifying the target niches on social and attitudinal behaviour, and offering common product across different demographics and also formulating the message accordingly. Internet marketing is picking up pace in India with fast technological advancement. Consumption and shopping patterns are changing. Online shopping, credit card usages are being accepted. Professionalism is increasing. Recent liberalization policies have increased competition and enforced new marketing practices in India, the local environment and local markets dictate the need for specialized and integrated approaches. 

Adem Bushi1, Tura Kaso Hamo2, Mohammed Hirpho3 

This research endeavor aimed to explore the factors influencing the financing of the wheat value chain in Hetosa and Lode Hetosa districts of Arsi zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. The specific objectives were to identify the determinants of credit utilization among wheat producers and examine the limitations and opportunities within the wheat value chain finance in the study area. A combination of qualitative and quantitative data from primary and secondary sources was collected. Primary data was obtained through semi-structured questionnaires administered to 154 farmers, 4 wholesalers, 4 flour factories, 8 retailers, 6 input suppliers, 20 consumers, and 4 bakeries. Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze the socio-characteristics of the respondents, as well as to identify the challenges and opportunities associated with wheat value chain finance in the research area. A logit model was employed to assess the factors influencing the financing of the wheat value chain in Hetosa and Lode Hetosa districts. The results of the Binary logit model revealed that variables such as gender, educational level, wealth status of households, farm size, credit source, loan size, and interest rate significantly influenced the credit utilization of households in wheat value chain finance. Consequently, it is recommended that governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in crop value chains should prioritize awareness campaigns and provide sufficient loan sizes based on households’ demands, while maintaining reasonable interest rates. Specifically, efforts should be made to promote education through extension services, enhance gender equity and equality in value chain finance, diversify and expand credit sources with fair interest rates, and develop alternative collateral options.