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on Investment |
| By: | International Monetary Fund |
| Abstract: | The Latvian economy contracted with significant disinflation against the backdrop of geopolitical headwinds. Persistent services inflation, driven by strong nominal wage growth amid tight labor markets, keeps core inflation elevated. Productivity growth has failed to match real wage increases, weighing on competitiveness. The economic consequences of Russia’s war in Ukraine continue to depress private investment and productivity, thus compromising further Latvia’s lagging income convergence. The government needs to address long-term spending pressures related to its priorities and multiple transitions around climate change and energy, aging and skilled labor shortages, and rising defense costs. The coalition’s priorities include managing the fallout from the war in Ukraine, ensuring energy independence, addressing social issues, and pursuing tax reform. |
| Date: | 2024–09–05 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:imf:imfscr:2024/284 |
| By: | Ofstad Barbara (BSI - Business Science Institute); Anne Bartel-Radic (UGA - Université Grenoble Alpes, IEPG - Sciences Po Grenoble - Institut d'études politiques de Grenoble - UGA - Université Grenoble Alpes) |
| Abstract: | Continuous learning is central to ensuring organizations remain innovative and high- performing. Corporate trainers play a critical role in educating and training employees. However, in an era of digital transformation and, more recently, artificial intelligence, trainers need new skills and methods to stay current and facilitate the transformation of the workforce. The skills gap is best filled through cooperative learning with other trainers. However, cooperative learning is hindered by different spatial, organizational, and cultural boundaries that are difficult to overcome. This paper attempts to understand how cooperative learning of trainers can be enhanced through boundary spanning. It examines the case of the corporate learning department of a German high-tech multinational through ethnographic action research by the department manager, including 21 semi-directive interviews and direct observation. Using a grounded theory approach, we explore how the concept, causes, context, contingencies, and conditions of boundary spanning enhance cooperative learning among corporate trainers. The findings show that boundary spanning leads to cooperative learning through pedagogical scaffolding, communities of practice, and a new learning culture. Spontaneous boundary spanning occurs in parallel to guided boundary spanning. Both are made possible by appropriate leadership values and attitudes, trust, flexibility, and dedicated time and capacity. Our paper provides recommendations on the key issues managers face in facilitating boundary spanning and cooperative learning among their employees. We also show how key barriers and risks can be mitigated to enable employees to learn cooperatively with colleagues from different and distant organizational units. |
| Keywords: | Boundary spanning, cooperative learning, corporate training, digital transformation, pedagogical scaffolding, vocational education and training |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04671811 |
| By: | Diego Rodríguez Laguna; Bernardo X. Fernandez |
| Abstract: | El presente documento busca ofrecer evidencia científica acerca del impacto que tiene el turismo actualmente sobre el crecimiento económico en Bolivia, mediante la aplicación de un modelo econométrico de datos de panel de efectos fijos de amplio uso en la literatura relevante. Pretende también caracterizar la relación del sector turístico con el sistema financiero local desde el punto de vista del acceso al crédito, así como los principales determinantes para su desarrollo a partir de información de fuente primaria obtenida mediante encuestas aplicadas a sus principales actores. |
| Keywords: | Turismo, producto, crecimiento, crédito, Bolivia |
| JEL: | L83 C33 O47 |
| Date: | 2024–04 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iad:sdsnwp:0224 |
| By: | Makoza, Frank |
| Abstract: | Agriculture subsidy programs increase participation of rural households in food security and nutrition improvement in Malawi. Digital technologies e.g. mobile application (App) and biometrical identification, electronic database have been integrated in implementation of Affordable inputs program (AIP) to support effectiveness and efficient delivery of the program. This paper analysed the effect of mobile network quality on the use of e-AIP redemption benefits app in AIP. The study analysed secondary data using content analysis. The findings showed that network availability was the main cause of network glitches that affected the use of mobile application for redeeming agricultural inputs. The network glitches created further challenges to the agricultural inputs subsidy beneficiaries and stakeholders. The include loss to time, promotion of corruption and late processing of transactions affecting overall goal of supporting food security. The study suggest areas of further research and recommendations for the telecommunications regulator to improve on measuring mobile network performance to include quality of user experience. |
| Keywords: | Affordable inputs subsidy, Mobile application, mobile network quality, Food security, Malawi |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:esprep:302572 |
| By: | Belton, Ben; Breisinger, Clemens; Kassim, Yumna; Pal, Barun Deb; Narayanan, Sudha; Zhang, Xiaobo |
| Abstract: | Clusters are spatial aggregations of small businesses producing the same or related goods or services. Together, these businesses have the potential to contribute to economic development of rural areas by compounding the existing strengths of local producing communities. Cluster-based development has been successful where governments facilitate infrastructure and provide services to support existing clusters, often leading to spillover and expansion of these clusters to wider areas over time (Abdelaziz et al. 2021). Agrifood cluster development can occur via two broad mechanisms: (1) immanent development, where clusters of commercial farms as well as firms in the value chain that provide goods and services re quired by farms (for example, specialized production inputs, machinery, and transport), emerge spontaneously in co-located groups; and (2) organized development, where actors such as government, companies, or nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) organize producers into groups to deliver extension services, inputs, or credit or to upgrade production practices, facilitate collective action to improve terms of market access, or enable compliance with standards or forms of branding such as geographic indications |
| Keywords: | small and medium enterprises; economic development; rural areas; value chains; infrastructure; Asia; Southern Asia; India |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:othbrf:152082 |
| By: | Minsu Ko; Cynthia Yin |
| Abstract: | With administrative data, we test whether institutional ownership with a social preference is related to employee-level gender equality. We show that the gender pay gap, which is an unexplained part of the lower wages of female employees, does not have a significant relation with socially responsible investments. Next, we show that female directorship strengthens the relation between socially responsible investments and the gender pay gap. When there are female directors, socially responsible investments have a robust correlation with a lower gender pay gap. This is because female directorship alleviates information asymmetry in gender equality. |
| Keywords: | gender, socially responsible investment, board of directors |
| JEL: | J16 G34 F29 |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cen:wpaper:24-44 |
| By: | Salma Muftah Almasrite (University of Benghazi); Salah Mabruk (University of Zintan.Libya) |
| Abstract: | The objective of this study was to investigate and assess the influence of certain human resource management functions (human resources planning, recruitment and selection, and human resource training) on building a learning organization among employees in the general industrial organizations operating in the city of Benghazi. The study included all employees in the general industrial organizations in Benghazi, encompassing a total of (5959) employees. A random sample of (361) individuals was selected for the study. Data relating to the study's subject were gathered through a questionnaire. The data analysis and hypothesis testing were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Several statistical analyses were conducted, including frequency tables, means, and standard deviations. The impact was assessed through multiple regression analysis to explore the statistically significant influence of certain human resource management functions (human resource planning, recruitment and selection, and human resource training) on the construction of a learning organization in the industrial organizations under investigation. The study showed that the level of implementation and practice of these human resources functions among the employees in the studied industrial organizations is notably high, with an overall mean of (3.51), surpassing the average of the scale. This points to the importance of the role played by human resources in achieving excellence and success for these organizations. In conclusion, the study recommends that organizations pay greater attention to human resources management functions, particularly in the domain of human resources recruitment and selection. This involves appointing the most qualified human talents and implementing training programs to enhance the skills and capabilities of employees, fostering teamwork and team building. |
| Keywords: | Human Resources Functions Learning Organization Public Industrial Organizations Benghazi Jel Classification codes : O15 J53 M12 M54 L16 L3, Human Resources Functions, Learning Organization, Public Industrial Organizations, Benghazi Jel Classification codes : O15, J53, M12, M54, L16, L3 |
| Date: | 2023–12–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04680600 |
| By: | Zhiqiang Liao |
| Abstract: | We study the problem of variable selection in convex nonparametric least squares (CNLS). Whereas the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) is a popular technique for least squares, its variable selection performance is unknown in CNLS problems. In this work, we investigate the performance of the Lasso CNLS estimator and find out it is usually unable to select variables efficiently. Exploiting the unique structure of the subgradients in CNLS, we develop a structured Lasso by combining $\ell_1$-norm and $\ell_{\infty}$-norm. To improve its predictive performance, we propose a relaxed version of the structured Lasso where we can control the two effects--variable selection and model shrinkage--using an additional tuning parameter. A Monte Carlo study is implemented to verify the finite sample performances of the proposed approaches. In the application of Swedish electricity distribution networks, when the regression model is assumed to be semi-nonparametric, our methods are extended to the doubly penalized CNLS estimators. The results from the simulation and application confirm that the proposed structured Lasso performs favorably, generally leading to sparser and more accurate predictive models, relative to the other variable selection methods in the literature. |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2409.01911 |
| By: | Gianluca Biggi; Martina Iori; Julia Mazzei; Andrea Mina |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the contribution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to environmental innovation. Leveraging a novel dataset of USPTO patent applications from 1980 to 2019, it explores the domain of Green Intelligence (GI), defined as the application of AI algorithms to green technologies. Our analyses reveal an expanding landscape where AI is indeed used as a general purpose technology to address the challenge of sustainability and acts as a catalyst for green innovation. We highlight transportation, energy, and control methods as key applications of GI innovation. We then examine the impact of inventions by using measures and econometric tests suitable to establish 1) how AI and green inventions differ from other technologies and 2) what specifically distinguishes GI technologies in terms of quality and value. Results show that AI and green technologies have a greater impact on follow-on inventions and display greater originality and generality. GI inventions stand out even further in these dimensions. However, when we examine the market response to these inventions, we find positive results only for AI, indicating a mismatch between the technological vis-Ã -vis market potential of green and GI technologies, arguably due to greater uncertainty in their risk-return profiles. |
| Keywords: | Artificial Intelligence, Environmental innovation, Green Intelligence (GI), Twin transition, Digitalization, Green technologies |
| Date: | 2024–09–19 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ssa:lemwps:2024/23 |
| By: | Stasi, Federer; Pierro, Roberto; Shaturaev, Jakhongir |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the impact on audit effort of requiring the assurance of non-financial information. Specifically, we use a sample of large New Zealand not-for-profits (charities) newly required to report and have assured statements of service performance following accounting and auditing standards. We find an increase in audit fees of 14.5%, although there is no change in audit or filing lag. There is no difference based on auditing standard used, audit firm or whether an ‘other matter’ is expressed in the audit report. Overall, our results suggest that mandating the reporting and assurance of non-financial information should be viewed as having greater costs than adopting International Financial Reporting Standards. |
| Keywords: | Non-financial reporting; audit fees; assurance; IFRS; cost-benefit analysis |
| JEL: | G21 G24 N6 R5 |
| Date: | 2024–01–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:121883 |
| By: | Frank Felder; Marie Petitet (King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center) |
| Abstract: | Probabilistic cost-benefit analyses of the reliability, resiliency, and adaptability of electric power systems can inform policymakers on how to efficiently reduce the frequency, magnitude, duration, and costs of power outages; how to cost-effectively improve the integration of variable and intermittent renewables; and how to enhance equitable outcomes. The elements needed for these analyses are available, and the computations are reasonably tractable due to the rapid improvements in the computational ability to conduct tens of thousands of detailed power system simulations quickly. |
| Keywords: | Battery storage, Benefits of electricity trade, Business models, Climate change |
| Date: | 2024–07–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:prc:dpaper:ks--2024-dp19 |
| By: | Kandhra, Diya; MacCurdy, Dwight; Lipman, Timothy PhD |
| Abstract: | To better understand inequities in EV charging costs, we compared charging costs at public EV DCFC stations to the cost for single-family housing (SFH) residents charging at home for three California electric utility service areas, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E) and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and for three specific urban areas - Sacramento, San Diego, and San Jose. We used a combination of observed pricing data from PlugShare, a crowd-sourced database of public EV charging, and public DCFC pricing data from electric vehicle service provider (EVSP) websites, as well as electric utility tariff information from their respective websites. |
| Keywords: | Engineering |
| Date: | 2024–09–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsrrp:qt9dn2j441 |
| By: | Anton Skrobotov |
| Abstract: | This review discusses methods of testing for a panel unit root. Modern approaches to testing in cross-sectionally correlated panels are discussed, preceding the analysis with an analysis of independent panels. In addition, methods for testing in the case of non-linearity in the data (for example, in the case of structural breaks) are presented, as well as methods for testing in short panels, when the time dimension is small and finite. In conclusion, links to existing packages that allow implementing some of the described methods are provided. |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2408.08908 |
| By: | Tang, Edward Chi Ho; Leung, Charles Ka Yui |
| Abstract: | Situated atop condominium buildings, 'top floor units' (TFU) offer unparalleled views and privacy, courtesy of accessible roofs. This paper empirically examines this status symbol and finds that: (1) TFUs interact with the macroeconomy differently from ordinary units, (2) when considering the liquidity factor, TFUs should not be included in the portfolio, (3) the trade-off between holding period and annualized return for TFUs significantly differs from ordinary units, suggesting alternative investment strategies are employed for TFUs, and (4) the liquidity of the TFU segment is less stable than ordinary units, potentially deterring short-term speculators. |
| Keywords: | top floor units; peer group effect on consumption; speculation; submarkets; Markov switching model |
| JEL: | D10 G10 R21 |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:121937 |
| By: | Cantiani, A. (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); van Beest, I. (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); Cruijssen, F. (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); Kant, G. (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); Erle, T.M. (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management) |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tiu:tiutis:65ece16c-9b81-49a5-a611-e8c661b8b723 |
| By: | Wang, Ding (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); Wei, Jiang; Noorderhaven, Niels (Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management); Liu, Yang |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tiu:tiutis:8216bc26-81cb-4d2a-b81a-4e9b192d1c9f |
| By: | Kimberly Dadisman; Andre Nickow; Philip Oreopoulos |
| Abstract: | Parenting is widely considered to be among the most important influences on early childhood (EC) development. But to what extent and under what circumstances can EC parenting programs improve child learning outcomes? While substantial progress has been made toward addressing these questions in recent years, there have been few attempts to systematically synthesize the evidence thus far with a view toward scaling and policy implications. This paper works toward filling this gap through a systematic review including both a quantitative meta-analysis and a detailed narrative analysis of randomized evaluations that test the impacts of EC parenting programs on learning outcomes. We find that these programs generate substantial effects across a wide range of contexts, and that the largest impacts are associated with programs that are conducted in low- or middle-income countries and that use curricula focusing on cognitive stimulation. Group parenting programs tend to yield effect sizes that are, on average, comparable to home visiting programs, typically at substantially lower costs. Qualitative analysis of evaluations of scaled interventions reveals that administrative implementation barriers rather than program ineffectiveness likely represent the primary impediment to stronger impact. We conclude by reflecting on implications for theory, policy, and priorities for future research. |
| JEL: | I2 J13 |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32959 |