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In the Next Issues
In the next issues of the MEST Journal, among others, we will publish:
Ljubomir Miljković and Milan Janković
MACROECONOMIC DYNAMICS AND GDP TRENDS IN THE WESTERN BALKANS, 2019–2024 To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract:
This paper examines macroeconomic dynamics and gross domestic product (GDP) trends in the Western Balkans over the period 2019–2024, with particular emphasis on the effects of the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent phase of recovery. Using a comparative macroeconomic approach based on officially published data from international financial institutions, the study analyzes GDP growth rates, cross-country differences, and variation in the pace of recovery across the region. The results show a sharp contraction in 2020, especially in tourism-dependent economies, followed by ...
This paper examines macroeconomic dynamics and gross domestic product (GDP) trends in the Western Balkans over the period 2019–2024, with particular emphasis on the effects of the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent phase of recovery. Using a comparative macroeconomic approach based on officially published data from international financial institutions, the study analyzes GDP growth rates, cross-country differences, and variation in the pace of recovery across the region. The results show a sharp contraction in 2020, especially in tourism-dependent economies, followed by a strong rebound in 2021 largely driven by base effects and fiscal support measures. However, during 2022–2024 growth moderated, reflecting inflationary pressures, energy price shocks, weaker external demand, and persistent structural restrictions. Despite certain signs of stabilization, significant heterogeneity remains, linked to differences in economic structure, institutional capacity, and exposure to global shocks. The findings deepen understanding of macroeconomic performance in the Western Balkans during periods of crisis and normalization, while offering policy-relevant insights for strengthening economic resilience, accelerating structural transformation, and supporting more sustainable long-term growth.
Keywords: Western Balkans, GDP growth, Macroeconomic dynamics, Economic recovery, Regional economic analysis, COVID-19 impact
RESPONSE TO WOJDA ON EVICTIONISM, PRO-LIFE AND PRO-CHOICE To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: Professor Wojda is not exactly a fan of my evictionist theory. He accurately explicates it but does nothing to obliterate it. Instead, he maintains that my own understanding of the pro-life and pro-choice theories that I mean evictionism to supplant is faulty. He also opines that my use of metaphors is problematic. I am exceedingly grateful to him for helping me publicize this perspective ...
Professor Wojda is not exactly a fan of my evictionist theory. He accurately explicates it but does nothing to obliterate it. Instead, he maintains that my own understanding of the pro-life and pro-choice theories that I mean evictionism to supplant is faulty. He also opines that my use of metaphors is problematic. I am exceedingly grateful to him for helping me publicize this perspective of mine. As he notes, I have been at it since 1977. I regret that I have not made virtually any headway at all in having this policy implemented, let alone widely discussed. With his important efforts, hopefully this state of affairs will soon end. I learned a great deal from Professor Wojda’s paper and am grateful to him for it. My thought, hope, is that this correspondence on this complex matter will enable both of us, together, to shed more light on it than would otherwise be the case.
EMPLOYING AI TO IMPROVE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH INDICATORS IN FINTECH PLATFORMS: ZEST AI
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Abstract:
With the rapid spread of advanced digital technologies in financial services, this study examines how artificial intelligence can improve the effectiveness of sustainable‑growth indicators on fintech platforms, treating these indicators as strategic levers for operational efficiency and service quality. The American AI platform Zest‑AI is used as a case study because of its success in developing AI‑based credit‑assessment solutions that expand customer reach and accelerate lending decisions at banks and financial institutions. The study finds ...
With the rapid spread of advanced digital technologies in financial services, this study examines how artificial intelligence can improve the effectiveness of sustainable‑growth indicators on fintech platforms, treating these indicators as strategic levers for operational efficiency and service quality. The American AI platform Zest‑AI is used as a case study because of its success in developing AI‑based credit‑assessment solutions that expand customer reach and accelerate lending decisions at banks and financial institutions. The study finds that integrating generative AI, machine learning, and deep learning into digital financial platforms enables the creation of intelligent lending models that strengthen the financing capacity of banking and financial institutions. Results from the Sustainable Growth Index show that the Zest‑AI platform attains a very high level of sustainable growth, indicating economic efficiency, promotion of social equity, and an orientation toward environmentally conscious digitalization. This performance is classified as a high degree of sustainability maturity.
CONDITIONALITY OF MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE NEW YORK TIMES EDITORIAL BOARD POSITION To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract:
This article examines the April 2024 editorial by the New York Times Editorial Board advocating conditional constraints on U.S. military aid to Israel. Through the lens of international law, just war theory, and foreign aid jurisprudence, we analyze whether the proposed conditionality framework represents a legitimate application of donor state prerogatives or constitutes an inappropriate restriction on Israel's sovereign right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. The article demonstrates that while all foreign military assistance inherently involves conditions, the specific constraints advocated by the Times Editorial Board ...
This article examines the April 2024 editorial by the New York Times Editorial Board advocating conditional constraints on U.S. military aid to Israel. Through the lens of international law, just war theory, and foreign aid jurisprudence, we analyze whether the proposed conditionality framework represents a legitimate application of donor state prerogatives or constitutes an inappropriate restriction on Israel's sovereign right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. The article demonstrates that while all foreign military assistance inherently involves conditions, the specific constraints advocated by the Times Editorial Board would effectively impair Israel's capacity to prosecute a defensive war against state and non-state actors engaged in systematic violations of international humanitarian law. Drawing on comparative analysis of U.S. wartime conduct in World War II and legal scholarship on the jus ad bellum and jus in bello distinction, we argue that Hamas bears sole responsibility for civilian casualties resulting from its war crime of using human shields. The article concludes by examining implications for the Arms Export Control Act, the Leahy Law, and broader questions of ally sovereignty in asymmetric conflicts against non-state actors.
Keywords: military aid, United States, Israel, Iran proxies, New York Times, international humanitarian law, Just war theory, human shields.
PROSPECTS OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY: AI, CONNECTIVITY, AND LONG-TERM EFFICIENCY
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Abstract: This study aims to explore the prospects of the digital economy amid global technological transformations by examining three main pillars: specialized artificial intelligence, the expansion of global connectivity, and the promotion of a sustainable digital economy. Drawing on international reports, academic studies, and practical experiences, the study finds that specialized artificial intelligence constitutes a strategic driver for developing solutions tailored to local needs, thereby enhancing service efficiency and strengthening the competitiveness of emerging economies. Furthermore, the expansion of high-speed connectivity is ...
This study aims to explore the prospects of the digital economy amid global technological transformations by examining three main pillars: specialized artificial intelligence, the expansion of global connectivity, and the promotion of a sustainable digital economy. Drawing on international reports, academic studies, and practical experiences, the study finds that specialized artificial intelligence constitutes a strategic driver for developing solutions tailored to local needs, thereby enhancing service efficiency and strengthening the competitiveness of emerging economies. Furthermore, the expansion of high-speed connectivity is identified as a prerequisite for integrating economies into global value chains and fostering collaborative innovation. In parallel, supporting a sustainable digital economy represents a strategic framework that aligns digital transformation with the Sustainable Development Goals through the integration of renewable energy, green computing, and responsible digital governance mechanisms. Overall, the findings indicate that building a balanced digital economy requires the integration of technological innovation with sound policies, strengthened international partnerships, sustained investment in digital infrastructure and skills development, and the adoption of data transparency and disclosure policies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Keywords: digital economy, specialized AI, global digital integration, sustainable digital economy, sustainable development, digital infrastructure
PANEL EVIDENCE ON FINANCIAL DRIVERS OF ALGERIAN FIRM’S RETURNS (2019-2024) To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study investigates the influence of key financial variables on the profitability of Algerian firms using panel data from 37 companies spanning 2019–2024. Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE) serve as dependent variables, while long-term debt ratio, financial leverage, liquidity, and firm size constitute the primary explanatory factors. Panel regression analysis reveals a significant negative association between long-term debt and ROA, indicating reduced asset efficiency under high indebtedness, whereas firm size exerts a positive effect on both profitability measures. Liquidity shows no significant impact, and financial leverage displays mixed effects ...
This study investigates the influence of key financial variables on the profitability of Algerian firms using panel data from 37 companies spanning 2019–2024. Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE) serve as dependent variables, while long-term debt ratio, financial leverage, liquidity, and firm size constitute the primary explanatory factors. Panel regression analysis reveals a significant negative association between long-term debt and ROA, indicating reduced asset efficiency under high indebtedness, whereas firm size exerts a positive effect on both profitability measures. Liquidity shows no significant impact, and financial leverage displays mixed effects across models. Robustness is confirmed through comprehensive diagnostic tests including heteroskedasticity, autocorrelation, and multicollinearity assessments. These findings offer critical implications for financial decision-making and policy formulation within Algeria's dynamic business environment. The analysis employs fixed effects models to control for firm-specific heterogeneity, providing reliable evidence on debt-profitability dynamics in an emerging market context. Such insights aid managers in optimizing capital structures amid economic volatility.
Keywords: Panel econometrics, return on assets, return on equity, financial determinants, firm profitability.
THE EXTENT OF APPLICATION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT IN ECONOMIC INSTITUTIONS To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: Human resources represent a fundamental element in ensuring the continuity of industrial and service organizations alike, which necessitates the provision of a safe working environment that protects employees from various occupational hazards. This study aims to assess the extent to which occupational health and safety management is applied in the National Paint Company – Souk Ahras Unit. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and ...
Human resources represent a fundamental element in ensuring the continuity of industrial and service organizations alike, which necessitates the provision of a safe working environment that protects employees from various occupational hazards. This study aims to assess the extent to which occupational health and safety management is applied in the National Paint Company – Souk Ahras Unit. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and relied on a questionnaire distributed to a sample of the company’s employees. After collecting and statistically analyzing the data, the results revealed a moderate level of implementation of occupational health and safety management requirements within the studied institution. However, several shortcomings were identified, particularly in the consistency of applying safety procedures and in the availability of protective equipment, which require systematic attention and corrective measures. In light of these findings, a set of recommendations was proposed to strengthen occupational health and safety practices, enhance compliance, and improve the overall working environment in a manner that ensures employee well-being and contributes to sustainable institutional performance.
DIGITAL ALGERIA 2030: AN ANALYSIS OF THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: The present study analyzes the Algeria Digital 2030 strategy by situating it within the dual context of organizational digital transformation and the evolution of Algerian public policies. It first defines digital transformation as a process of reconfiguring organizational models, information systems, and competencies. Then, it traces the gradual development of the digital economy in Algeria, from the liberalization of telecommunications to the launch of the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025–2030. The study then outlines the strategy’s objectives and pillars, emphasizing ...
The present study analyzes the Algeria Digital 2030 strategy by situating it within the dual context of organizational digital transformation and the evolution of Algerian public policies. It first defines digital transformation as a process of reconfiguring organizational models, information systems, and competencies. Then, it traces the gradual development of the digital economy in Algeria, from the liberalization of telecommunications to the launch of the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025–2030. The study then outlines the strategy’s objectives and pillars, emphasizing infrastructure modernization, improved public services, a competitive digital economy, and a strengthened legal and cybersecurity framework. It presents the Algeria Digital 2030 vision through five structural axes (ICT infrastructure, human capital, digital governance, digital economy, and digital society) and two cross-cutting foundations (regulatory framework and information system security), accompanied by ambitious quantitative targets. Finally, the study discusses the challenges, issues, and prospects of this transformation, emphasizing both its strategic role in national sovereignty, state modernization, and economic diversification, as well as the persistent constraints related to territorial disparities in access, skills deficits, digital governance, and citizens’ adoption of online services.
Keywords: digital transformation, Algeria Digital 2030, strategy, strategic axes.
BLOCKCHAIN AND SMART CONTRACTS: FINANCIAL IMPACTS ON GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This research paper aims to investigate the applications of blockchain technology and smart contracts in managing global supply chains, as well as their financial and economic implications. The study addressed the concept of supply chain management and the technologies of blockchain and smart contracts, with a focus on their applications in validating and tracking transactions, facilitating the flow and storage of information in international trade, supporting customs, shipping, and container management operations, and increasing transparency ...
This research paper aims to investigate the applications of blockchain technology and smart contracts in managing global supply chains, as well as their financial and economic implications. The study addressed the concept of supply chain management and the technologies of blockchain and smart contracts, with a focus on their applications in validating and tracking transactions, facilitating the flow and storage of information in international trade, supporting customs, shipping, and container management operations, and increasing transparency in commercial transactions. The most prominent digital supply chain platforms based on blockchain were also presented. The results showed that the application of these technologies contributes to reducing costs and fees, improving cash management, increasing transparency and reducing risks, and enhancing the economic and operational efficiency of exporting and importing companies. It also provides administrative bodies with the ability to track and verify transactions instantly, which supports more accurate financial and strategic decision-making.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, automated systems, freight materials handling, global supply chain strategies, data
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN EDUCATIONAL AND NON-EDUCATIONAL SMARTPHONE APP USE, TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS, AND GPA IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This research paper investigates the impact of smartphone use on time management and academic performance among students in higher education institutions. With smartphones becoming an integral part of everyday life, their potential to enhance or diminish academic performance is becoming increasingly important. The study surveyed undergraduate students (N = 170) and collected data on their smartphone usage patterns, time management skills, and academic performance (GPA). In addition to survey responses, smartphone usage tracking applications were used to obtain more objective measures of time spent on educational and non-educational applications. The findings indicate . . .
This research paper investigates the impact of smartphone use on time management and academic performance among students in higher education institutions. With smartphones becoming an integral part of everyday life, their potential to enhance or diminish academic performance is becoming increasingly important. The study surveyed undergraduate students (N = 170) and collected data on their smartphone usage patterns, time management skills, and academic performance (GPA). In addition to survey responses, smartphone usage tracking applications were used to obtain more objective measures of time spent on educational and non-educational applications. The findings indicate a markedly negative relationship between non-educational app use (e.g., social media, entertainment) and academic performance, suggesting that the time spent on these apps is associated with lower GPA scores. On the other hand, time management skills were observed to have a positive impact on academic performance, mitigating the negative influence of smartphone distractions. Although the educational use of apps showed a weak positive correlation with GPA, this correlation was not significant. The study discusses the role of time management in mitigating digital distractions and suggests that strengthening students’ time management skills may help improve academic outcomes by enabling more effective and purposeful smartphone use.
Keywords: Smartphone usage, academic performance, time management, higher education, digital distraction.
THE ROLE OF THE CONCURRENT ENGINEERING IN REDUCING PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT COSTS: AIRBUS CASE STUDY To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study aims to identify the concurrent engineering (CE) technique and examine its role in reducing costs during product development phases by leveraging functional and technological practices that support cost reduction. Given the nature of the study, we adopt a descriptive and analytical approach. Based on a case study of Airbus, which is considered one of the most powerful companies in the global aeronautical sector, and which has adopted concurrent engineering technique through its project ACE (Airbus Concurrent Engineering), the findings indicate ...
This study aims to identify the concurrent engineering (CE) technique and examine its role in reducing costs during product development phases by leveraging functional and technological practices that support cost reduction. Given the nature of the study, we adopt a descriptive and analytical approach. Based on a case study of Airbus, which is considered one of the most powerful companies in the global aeronautical sector, and which has adopted concurrent engineering technique through its project ACE (Airbus Concurrent Engineering), the findings indicate that concurrent engineering reduces the product’s overall cost by lowering design costs through the elimination of design errors and by reducing the number of engineering changes required during product design. Additionally, it reduces labor inputs by utilizing cross-functional teams. By incorporating supply chain requirements early in the development process, the overall cost decreases while maintaining a strong focus on quality improvement, thereby enhancing flexibility and responsiveness to market demands.
ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS AFFECTING THE FINANCIAL EQUILIBRIUM OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM FUNDS IN ALGERIA To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study examines the combined factors affecting the Financial Equilibrium (FE) of Algeria's Social Security System (SSS) funds. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical approach to establish the theoretical framework and to investigate the main factors influencing the FE of the system. Empirical analysis was conducted using data from reports of the National Office of Statistics (ONS) covering the period from 2007 to 2017. To evaluate the simultaneous effect of the selected variables on FE, a multiple linear regression model was employed. The findings indicate that social security adequacy, ...
This study examines the combined factors affecting the Financial Equilibrium (FE) of Algeria's Social Security System (SSS) funds. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical approach to establish the theoretical framework and to investigate the main factors influencing the FE of the system. Empirical analysis was conducted using data from reports of the National Office of Statistics (ONS) covering the period from 2007 to 2017. To evaluate the simultaneous effect of the selected variables on FE, a multiple linear regression model was employed. The findings indicate that social security adequacy, benefits growth, social security coverage, and the operating costs ratio exert a statistically significant effect on the FE of the Algerian SSS funds. In contrast, contributions growth and the average benefit per contributor did not show a statistically significant effect within the estimated model. These results suggest that the FE of the SSS is shaped more strongly by expenditure structure, coverage dynamics, and administrative cost efficiency than by contribution growth alone.
DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION DYNAMICS IN MENA ECONOMIES To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study examines the effect of digital financial inclusion on household consumption dynamics in the economies of the Middle East and North Africa using a dynamic panel quantile framework. The analysis is based on a balanced annual panel of 12 economies over the period 2014–2023. Household consumption dynamics are measured by the growth in real household final consumption expenditure per capita, while digital financial inclusion is captured by a composite index that combines digital payments usage, internet access, and mobile connectivity. The results show that the effect of digital financial inclusion is ...
This study examines the effect of digital financial inclusion on household consumption dynamics in the economies of the Middle East and North Africa using a dynamic panel quantile framework. The analysis is based on a balanced annual panel of 12 economies over the period 2014–2023. Household consumption dynamics are measured by the growth in real household final consumption expenditure per capita, while digital financial inclusion is captured by a composite index that combines digital payments usage, internet access, and mobile connectivity. The results show that the effect of digital financial inclusion is positive but uneven across the conditional distribution of household consumption. The estimated coefficient becomes positive across most quantiles and reaches statistical significance only at the upper quantile. Real gross domestic product per capita growth remains positive and significant across all specifications, while inflation exerts a negative effect in the middle and upper parts of the distribution. The findings suggest that digital financial inclusion can support household welfare, but its effect depends on structural readiness, macroeconomic stability, and the depth of digital access.
Keywords: digital financial inclusion, household consumption, Middle East and North Africa, dynamic panel quantile model, macro-panel analysis, financial welfare.
Khayreddine Belaaze, Amina Boukhedna, and Randa Saadi
DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNIZATION OF PORT INFRASTRUCTURE IN ALGERIA A CASE STUDY OF THE PORT OF SKIKDA To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study examines the evolution of port systems and analyzes the modernization strategies of the Skikda Port Authority (Entreprise Portuaire de Skikda, EP Skikda) as a case study. The research aims to assess the extent to which the authority's strategy aligns with contemporary port models. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative case study approach, based on the analysis of official port documents and technical reports. The findings reveal that the Skikda Port Authority is successfully functioning as a modern strategic logistics hub, transcending its traditional role in transit shipping operations. ...
This study examines the evolution of port systems and analyzes the modernization strategies of the Skikda Port Authority (Entreprise Portuaire de Skikda, EP Skikda) as a case study. The research aims to assess the extent to which the authority's strategy aligns with contemporary port models. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative case study approach, based on the analysis of official port documents and technical reports. The findings reveal that the Skikda Port Authority is successfully functioning as a modern strategic logistics hub, transcending its traditional role in transit shipping operations. Its integrated administrative approach—combining advanced infrastructure with a focus on digitalization, safety, and stakeholder integration, ports as a competitive actor within global supply chains. The study concludes that EP Skikda offers a replicable model for other port authorities seeking to enhance both competitiveness and sustainability. By bridging traditional port operations with contemporary logistical demands, the case of Skikda provides valuable insights for emerging economies aiming to modernize their maritime infrastructure.
Keywords: port management, maritime logistics, infrastructure, Algerian ports.
Walter E. Block, Allen Gindler, and Alan G. Futerman
REJOINDER TO HOPPE ON REACTIONARY LIBERTARIANISM To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: Professor Hans-Hermann Hoppe gave a public speech that is filled with errors, misrepresentations, and fallacies. He takes on several main subjects: monarchism, Israel, the Frankfurt School, Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Javier Milei. This author views all three through the eyeglasses of libertarianism and misunderstands them all. Is he an anti-Semite? He makes many statements that can be construed as such. Read what he has to say and decide for yourself. It cannot be denied Hoppe is regarded by some as ...
Professor Hans-Hermann Hoppe gave a public speech that is filled with errors, misrepresentations, and fallacies. He takes on several main subjects: monarchism, Israel, the Frankfurt School, Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Javier Milei. This author views all three through the eyeglasses of libertarianism and misunderstands them all. Is he an anti-Semite? He makes many statements that can be construed as such. Read what he has to say and decide for yourself. It cannot be denied Hoppe is regarded by some as a world class libertarian theoretician. His work in democracy and monarchism; in defense of private property rights; his contribution to argumentation ethics; his arguments in behalf of anarcho-capitalism, are usually presented to sustain this stance. Those who support him do so on the grounds of his views on Austrian economics in general, and praxeology in particular. However, when many of this author’s premises are analyzed, they do not pass rigorous tests. The subjects treated in the present work are an example of this phenomenon.
THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL OFFICE OF WAQF AND ZAKAT IN MOBILIZING WAQF AND ZAKAT RESOURCES IN ALGERIA To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: This study aims to highlight the role of the National Office for Waqf and Zakat in mobilizing Waqf and Zakat resources in Algeria. The Office was established by decree No. 21-179 to establish an institutional structure responsible for managing Waqf and Zakat resources and directing them towards community development. The study reached several conclusions, the most important of which is that the Office is a tool for mobilizing, managing, exploiting, developing, and investing waqf properties. During its activities in the period 2021-2023, it included more than 4,200 waqf properties. The National Office is also a mechanism . . .
This study aims to highlight the role of the National Office for Waqf and Zakat in mobilizing Waqf and Zakat resources in Algeria. The Office was established by decree No. 21-179 to establish an institutional structure responsible for managing Waqf and Zakat resources and directing them towards community development. The study reached several conclusions, the most important of which is that the Office is a tool for mobilizing, managing, exploiting, developing, and investing waqf properties. During its activities in the period 2021-2023, it included more than 4,200 waqf properties. The National Office is also a mechanism for collecting, disbursing, and developing zakat, as it collects zakat resources from three main sources, which has led to a continuous increase in its annual revenue, reaching more than 1.649 billion dinars in 2024. Among the study’s recommendations is the need to strengthen community confidence in the importance of takaful institutions and their pivotal role in supporting the charitable sector.
Keywords: waqf, zakat, takaful institutions, charitable sector, National Office for Waqf and Zakat
Monica Crespai, Ioana-Carmen Bozintan (Cosma-Guler), Ciprian Patrauceanu, and Daniel Badulescu
THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL EDUCATION IN SME DEVELOPMENT: INSIGHTS FROM ROMANIAN FINANCE PROFESSIONALS To read the article before publishing click here
Abstract: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are essential to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, yet uneven financial literacy continues to limit access to funding, innovation uptake, and operational resilience. This study examines how finance professionals perceive the relevance and usefulness of financial education for SMEs, situating these views within the institutional context and role-specific responsibilities. Based on a questionnaire administered to specialists from Romania’s banking and non-bank lending institutions, our study investigates how professionals assess educational initiatives that shape SMEs’ behavior and preferences for training formats (online courses, seminars, customized programs, and applied simulations). Findings indicate distinct perceptual ...
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are essential to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, yet uneven financial literacy continues to limit access to funding, innovation uptake, and operational resilience. This study examines how finance professionals perceive the relevance and usefulness of financial education for SMEs, situating these views within the institutional context and role-specific responsibilities. Based on a questionnaire administered to specialists from Romania’s banking and non-bank lending institutions, our study investigates how professionals assess educational initiatives that shape SMEs’ behavior and preferences for training formats (online courses, seminars, customized programs, and applied simulations). Findings indicate distinct perceptual orientations - from an innovation-driven stance that assigns a central role to financial education to a more traditional, cautious view marked by lower openness to alternatives - together with clear differences in learning preferences across professional groups. Moreover, financial education is perceived in close connection with attitudes toward financing instruments and organizational culture. Recommendations addressed to policy makers, training providers, and lending institutions emphasize differentiated, context-sensitive educational approaches tailored to institutional settings, professional roles, and the specific needs of targeted audiences, rather than uniform interventions.
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