Ephrem H. Redda - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Ephrem H. Redda

Journal of Management Information and Decision Sciences, 2021

Today's global trade and online shopping revolve around several e-commerce enterprises. Transitio... more Today's global trade and online shopping revolve around several e-commerce enterprises. Transitioning from a physical approach with local stores to an online one with eretailers for daily requirements has provided valuable experience during COVID-19 lockdown. The current study paper's goal is to comprehend the research questions about online shopping. As a preventive precaution to covid-19, now is the moment to engage in virtual shopping with zero contact delivery. The study also allows for a comparative comparison of the level of satisfaction of online buyers in the overall framework, taking into account elements PEBSF, i.e. Products (P), Employee Behavior and Services (EBS), and Finance (F) and its determinants. The researcher used an integrative approach (IA) to study the literature and conduct the survey. To comprehend the syntactic research gap, both primary data from a well-structured questionnaire distributed to 300 internet purchasers in the Mumbai region and secondary data from published sources were centred and cited. To create a representative sample, the researcher used Stratified Random Sampling for e-commerce websites, taking into account total visits, average visit time, page per visit, and bounce rate, as well as Convenient Random Sampling for online purchasers. The researcher used the Kolmogorov-Smirnov (D-Statistic) and Shapiro-Wilk tests to test data normality, Cronbachs' Alpha to test data reliability, Descriptive Statistics (frequency and per cent count) to describe data, Kruskal-Wallis 1-Way ANOVA on Rank to calculate Mean Rank to analyze and compare satisfaction level, and Chi-square to measure significant association. The researcher created an epilogue based only on data collecting and analysis. In order to gain insights into e-commerce, descriptive and inferential studies were carried out.

Social Science Research Network, 2021

Context/literature: Principals employ a range of leadership styles that directly or indirectly im... more Context/literature: Principals employ a range of leadership styles that directly or indirectly impact school performance. However, there is always a debate among scholars about which leadership style is the most effective for school performance. Purposes: The purpose of this study was to investigate and analyze the relationship between different leadership styles of principals and school performance in Eritrean secondary schools. Research method: The study followed a descriptive research design, and it employed both qualitative and quantitative methods to establish a relationship between leadership styles and school performance. Using non-probability sampling, a sample (N = 375) comprising 30 schools/principals, 250 teachers, 50 students, and 45 parents participated in the study. Findings: The study explored and analyzed the relationship between the two variables, namely leadership styles of principals and school performance. The study found that principals’ leadership styles do influence school performance either positively or negatively, and it has become clear that no single leadership style is appropriate at all times. The study found that democratic and situational leadership styles have a positive impact on school performance; while autocratic and laissez-faire leadership styles were found to have negative impacts on school performance. Conclusion & recommendations: It can be concluded that no single leadership style is appropriate at all times, because no leadership style is right at all times. Based on empirical findings, contrary to established norms in the Eritrean school system, the study recommends that school principals should opt to implement principles of democratic and situational leadership for better school performance. Among other things, the study recommends that school principals should receive professional development to upgrade their leadership capacity in order to improve overall school performance and student attainment.

EURASIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Teaching encompasses leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Teachers, as professionals, ... more Teaching encompasses leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Teachers, as professionals, draw their leadership power from competencies, influences, relationships, or expertise, but current leadership models position teachers as followers, not as leaders. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that teachers, whatsoever their situation, position, or belief may be, are leaders of classrooms and schools without stepping up to formal roles. The Toulmin method of argument was employed to support and reason out the main claim. The findings of the study suggested that leadership is not a special role of a particular person; it includes all facets of schools and communities, particularly teachers. The author argued and identified a number of leadership attributes exhibited by teachers, and subsequently discussed teacher professionalism to show whether it is the only source for teachers to demonstrate leadership. Eventually, it has been concluded and corroborated that teachers, by th...

Journal of Management Information and Decision Sciences, 2021

For agricultural productivity, credit is a necessary input. India's economy is based mostly on ag... more For agricultural productivity, credit is a necessary input. India's economy is based mostly on agriculture. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) seeks to offer farmers with timely and appropriate funds in a flexible and cost-effective manner. The inauguration of the Kisan Finance Card Scheme is a watershed moment in Indian agricultural credit history. Kisan Credit Card (KCC), which was first introduced in 1998-99, allows farmers to purchase agriculture supplies such as seeds, fertilizers, and insecticides as well as withdraw cash to meet their productionrelated needs. The Kisan Loans Card Scheme was designed to make it easier for borrowers to obtain short-term credit from formal financial institutions. Secondary data was collected and evaluated in this research project to examine the growth and variations of the Kisan Credit Card in terms of number and amount sanctioned from 2017 to 2021. The data was analyzed, and a conclusion was reached.

Journal of African Union Studies, 2020

Journal of Reviews on Global Economics, 2020

Motivation: Online shopping is increasingly becoming a global phenomenon. In marketing literature... more Motivation: Online shopping is increasingly becoming a global phenomenon. In marketing literature, utilitarian and hedonic values are well-known consumption values that explain consumer behaviour and consumer decisionmaking. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of utilitarian and hedonic consumption values on consumer attitude towards online shopping that, in turn, influences online purchasing intentions. In doing so, the study aims to deepen the understanding of consumer behaviour in an online environment, which marketing practitioners may find useful as the phenomenon of online shopping gains momentum in the 4 th industrial revolution. Methodology and Methods: This study followed a descriptive research design, and a quantitative research method. Data (sample, n = 215) was collected using a self-administrated questionnaire from consumers with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds through Survey Monkey. The well-known utilitarian and hedonic scales were adapted to suit the online shopping context, and utilised to collect empirical data for the study. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and structural equation modelling were applied to address the research objectives, and to test the hypothesised research model. Data and Empirical Analysis: The study found that four attributes/values, namely wider selection, efficiency, convenience and cost saving are determinants of consumers' utilitarian motivation towards online shopping, while another set of four attributes/values, viz. adventure/explore, gratification, social and idea constituted consumers' hedonic motivation towards online shopping were found. Furthermore, the study found that utilitarian and hedonic motivations are determinants of consumer attitude towards online shopping, while, in turn, consumer attitude was found to be a predictor of online purchasing intentions. Novelty: The study contributes to the literature on the contemporary online shopping phenomenon. Conducted in an emerging economy (South Africa), it provides a deeper understanding of, and an insight into how consumers behave and make decisions in an online environment. Policy Consideration: At a practical level, the paper has devised a tool (framework) for marketing practitioners to utilise in influencing consumer attitude towards online shopping and purchasing intentions, and ultimately conclude a sale through online transaction.

International journal of economics and finance, Jun 1, 2017

increase their intra-regional trade before the implementation of the envisaged monetary union.

International Journal of Research In Business and Social Science, Nov 13, 2022

Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies, Nov 3, 2018

Impulse buying behaviour has been recognised as a key research concern amongst academic researche... more Impulse buying behaviour has been recognised as a key research concern amongst academic researches and marketers. At one time or another a large amount of consumers purchases on impulse. Evidence from the literature indicates that external factors, such as in-store atmosphere, in-store browsing, in-store layout, salespersons, promotions and reference groups are important antecedents of impulse purchases. The cognitive response to act on impulse purchase is triggered by external factors to buy on impulse. This paper reports on a study undertaken to determine the external factors influencing the cognitive response of impulse buying behaviour amongst Generation Y students. Generation Y are labelled as individuals born between 1986 and 2005. The study employed a quantitative method, whereby a structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a non-probability convenience sample of 349 students (aged 18 to 24 years), across two South African public higher education institutions' campuses located in the Gauteng province. The collected data was examined using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.070 that implies that in-store atmosphere, in-store browsing and promotions can predict seven percent of the variance in Generation Y students' cognitive response to buy on impulse, which proposes that other variables influence Generation Y students' cognitive response to buy on impulse.

Mediterranean journal of social sciences, May 1, 2014

In today`s fast-paced business environment, rendering quality service to customers has become cru... more In today`s fast-paced business environment, rendering quality service to customers has become crucially important to any organisation and banks are no exception. The rapid advancement in technology-based systems, especially those related to the Internet, has led to fundamental changes in how banks interact with customers. This study provides insights on a framework for understanding customer perceptions of the quality of technology-based banking service and the relationship with customer satisfaction and loyalty in a developing country. A structured questionnaire containing 37 variables relating to online banking service quality was administered to two hundred Internet banking customers in Southern Gauteng in South Africa (SA). Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perception of online banking service quality were extracted. These factors were assurance, responsiveness, ease of use, accessibility, fulfilment, speed and accuracy, and contact. The relationship among the constructs of online banking service quality, customer satisfaction and loyalty was established by using correlations and regression analysis. The findings provide evidence that the seven dimensions of technology based service quality positively influence customer satisfaction and loyalty. The results show that periodic measurements of the levels of online banking service quality should become an integral part of any bank`s effort and strategy in improving service quality levels.

International Journal of Economics and Financial Issues, Nov 15, 2021

This study utilises the generalised purchasing power parity (GPPP) to assess the feasibility of a... more This study utilises the generalised purchasing power parity (GPPP) to assess the feasibility of a monetary union in the East African Community (EAC) region. Time series and panel vector error correction models (VECM) were used to analyse monthly data from 1996-2016 for the five EAC countries. The cointegration results support the existence of a long-run relationship between the tested variables, providing evidence for the optimum currency area (OCA) and the feasibility of monetary union in the EAC region. The VECM results indicate some differences in the size of the coefficients, suggesting that any change/shock of real exchange rate in the region may cause unintended currency flow from one country to the other in the short-run, and this may constrain the possibility of an effective and efficient monetary union. Therefore, member countries should harmonise their monetary policies well ahead of the implementation of the monetary union the region.

Eurasian journal of business and management, 2021

The purpose of this article is to provide an impact assessment of Covid-19 on the South African a... more The purpose of this article is to provide an impact assessment of Covid-19 on the South African automotive industry. The study is exploratory in nature and employs descriptive quantitative analyses. Monthly time series data (01/2000-01/2021) available from Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) were used for analysis and to achieve the objectives of the study. The results indicate that since the beginning of March 2020, all categories started to show significant contraction, and the worst negative growth was observed in April at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic regulations imposed by the government. Measured in nominal values at current prices and compared on a year-on-year (YOY) basis, the largest negative annual growth rate (contraction) was in used vehicle sales, followed by new vehicle sales, income from sales of accessories, workshop income, fuel sales, and convenient store sales. The overall YOY actual motor trade sales contracted by a massive 84%, and when seasonally adjusted, by 81%. Led by used vehicle sales, the automotive industry was able to recover rather quickly as the restrictions imposed by the government were eased from May 2020 onwards. However, the overall performance of the industry is still in a worse state when compared to the preceding year, 2019. Looking forward, the gradual increase in overall motor trade sales suggests a positive trend of growth.

International Journal of Trade and Global Markets, 2017

Advancements in technology-based systems has resulted in banks using service delivery channels su... more Advancements in technology-based systems has resulted in banks using service delivery channels such as internet banking and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) to interact with customers. To ensure a competitive edge in the marketplace banks' knowledge of the determinants of internet banking service quality is essential. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to investigate consumer views and concerns regarding internet banking services in South Africa. A qualitative research approach using a focus group and in-depth interviews were conducted to collect data from South African consumers of internet banking services. The Atlas.ti software was used in the content analysis of the interview transcripts. Four themes, namely internet banking service quality, customer value, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, were identified as important facets of internet banking services that could improve the overall internet banking service quality at a consumer level.

Mediterranean journal of social sciences, 2014

South Africa has one of the leading banking infrastructures compared to the rest of Africa The So... more South Africa has one of the leading banking infrastructures compared to the rest of Africa The South African banking industry currently faces several strategic changes with significant consequences for untapped markets. Among the strategic changes is the provision of online banking services. This study provides an insight of customer perceptions of technology-based banking service quality in a developing country. A structured questionnaire relating to online banking service quality was administered to two hundred Internet banking customers in the Gauteng province of South Africa. One hundred and eighty (n=180) completed questionnaires were received. Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perception of online banking service quality were extracted. These factors were assurance, responsiveness, ease of use, accessibility, fulfilment, speed and accuracy, and contact. The results show that periodic measurements of the levels of online banking service quality should become an integral part of any bank`s effort and strategy in improving service quality levels. In this regard an understanding of the dimensionality and relative importance of the service attributes of online banking service quality is of crucial importance to banks.

RePEc: Research Papers in Economics, May 1, 2015

Due to technological advancements and innovation, technology-based banking has gained importance ... more Due to technological advancements and innovation, technology-based banking has gained importance as an alternative means of providing services to customers. As a result the understanding and measuring of service quality of technology-based banking has become an indispensable marketing management imperative to bank managers over the recent years. The aim of this paper was to investigate if there are significant differences on customer perceptions of technology-based banking services by certain demographic variables, namely, age and gender. A structured questionnaire was completed by one hundred and eighty customers (n=180). Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perceptions of online banking service quality were extracted. ANOVA was then applied to examine the differences among the means of the socio-biographic variables with regard to their perceptions of the different service dimensions of technology-based banking services. The study revealed that there were significant differences among the different age groups while no significant differences were observed between males and females. The younger age group (under 20 years) seem to rate the quality of the technology-based banking services lower with respect to the following factors: factor 1 (assurance, trust and appeal), factor 5 (fulfilment) and factor 6 (speed and accuracy). Factor 4 (accessibility), was, however, viewed favourably by this age group. Their older and more mature counterparts (50-59 years old) perceived factor 5 (fulfilment) more favourably than did the younger age cohorts. These findings could be used for monitoring and measuring the service levels of online banking service quality to identify areas of improvement.

RePEc: Research Papers in Economics, Apr 1, 2021

The use in this publication of trade names, trademarks, service marks, and similar terms, even if... more The use in this publication of trade names, trademarks, service marks, and similar terms, even if they are not identified as such, is not to be taken as an expression of opinion as to whether or not they are subject to proprietary rights.

Acta Universitatis Danubius. Œconomica, Aug 28, 2020

In a challenging economic and financial environment, it is essential that retail banks uphold rob... more In a challenging economic and financial environment, it is essential that retail banks uphold robust and mutually beneficial relationships with their customers. The youth of today, labelled Generation Y, in particular, is a demanding and lucrative current and future segment for retail banks. For this reason, it is important that retail banks meet the demands of this segment to help bolster trust and confidence in the bank. Understanding the factors that positively influence the Generation Y market segment's trust in retail banks will assist banks in gaining valuable insights into enhancing trust among this customer base. As such, this study attempts to evaluate the factors that influence trust in retail banking among Generation Y consumers in the South African context. The study employed a descriptive research design, and a quantitative research method. A self-administered questionnaire was used to survey a convenience sample of 271 Generation Y banking consumers registered at the campuses of two public universities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Descriptive, reliability, correlations and multivariate regression analysis were performed to address the research problem. The results of the study suggest that Generation Y consumers' perceived value and image of their retail bank as well as their commitment to and satisfaction with their retail bank have a statistically significant positive influence on their trust in the retail bank.

International journal of economics and finance, Dec 1, 2016

In August 2003, the Association of African Central Bank Governors announced that it would strive ... more In August 2003, the Association of African Central Bank Governors announced that it would strive to establish a single currency and common central bank by 2021. Many regional trading blocs and economic communities in Africa are working towards this objective. For example, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) are in the process of introducing monetary union in their respective regions which will be implemented in the near future. Such a decision is set to have wide-ranging economic ramifications if a favourable economic environment does not exist on the ground. The purpose of this paper is to analyse and assess the progress towards monetary union in the SADC and EAC, using the macroeconomic convergence criteria of the two economic regions in the envisaged time frame. This study used annual data, from 1995 to 2015, to analyse the economic feasibility of monetary union in the two African economic regions. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to assess the attainment of the macroeconomic convergence criteria. Based on the finding, it is concluded that monetary union in both SADC and EAC is not feasible, at least in the envisaged timeframe. There is lot to be done in a more consistent and convincing fashion for a sustained period of time before the implementation of monetary union.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), 2016

Innovative marketing, Jun 13, 2023

Customer loyalty and trust are key elements for the success of retail banking. For this reason, i... more Customer loyalty and trust are key elements for the success of retail banking. For this reason, it is crucial to investigate the predictors of these elements. This study aims to model service quality, customer satisfaction, and commitment influencing customer loyalty and trust in South African retail banking. The target population is a growing banking customer segment-Generation Y. A sample of 271 Generation Y customers participated in the survey. Their responses were analyzed using AMOS, whereby a structural equation model was developed. Although the structural model suggests that service quality (β = 0.097; p = 0.175) is an insignificant predictor of customer loyalty in retail banking, the influence remains positive. Moreover, the model infers that customer satisfaction (β = 0.793; p = 0.001) predicts customer loyalty in retail banking and that customer satisfaction (β = 0.715; p = 0.001) and commitment (β = 0.257; p = 0.001) influence trust in retail banking. All the model fit indices (NFI = 0.95; RFI = 0.92; IFI = 0.97; TLI = 0.96; CFI = 0.97; RMSEA = 0.06; SRMR = 0.03) infer that the model is reliable, valid, and ultimately good fitting measurement tool of customer loyalty and trust in retail banking. The results provide insights into the most critical factors in building customer loyalty and trust among Generation Y customers in South African retail banking. Moreover, they can help to develop marketing and customer service strategies to improve these outcomes.

Journal of Management Information and Decision Sciences, 2021

Today's global trade and online shopping revolve around several e-commerce enterprises. Transitio... more Today's global trade and online shopping revolve around several e-commerce enterprises. Transitioning from a physical approach with local stores to an online one with eretailers for daily requirements has provided valuable experience during COVID-19 lockdown. The current study paper's goal is to comprehend the research questions about online shopping. As a preventive precaution to covid-19, now is the moment to engage in virtual shopping with zero contact delivery. The study also allows for a comparative comparison of the level of satisfaction of online buyers in the overall framework, taking into account elements PEBSF, i.e. Products (P), Employee Behavior and Services (EBS), and Finance (F) and its determinants. The researcher used an integrative approach (IA) to study the literature and conduct the survey. To comprehend the syntactic research gap, both primary data from a well-structured questionnaire distributed to 300 internet purchasers in the Mumbai region and secondary data from published sources were centred and cited. To create a representative sample, the researcher used Stratified Random Sampling for e-commerce websites, taking into account total visits, average visit time, page per visit, and bounce rate, as well as Convenient Random Sampling for online purchasers. The researcher used the Kolmogorov-Smirnov (D-Statistic) and Shapiro-Wilk tests to test data normality, Cronbachs' Alpha to test data reliability, Descriptive Statistics (frequency and per cent count) to describe data, Kruskal-Wallis 1-Way ANOVA on Rank to calculate Mean Rank to analyze and compare satisfaction level, and Chi-square to measure significant association. The researcher created an epilogue based only on data collecting and analysis. In order to gain insights into e-commerce, descriptive and inferential studies were carried out.

Social Science Research Network, 2021

Context/literature: Principals employ a range of leadership styles that directly or indirectly im... more Context/literature: Principals employ a range of leadership styles that directly or indirectly impact school performance. However, there is always a debate among scholars about which leadership style is the most effective for school performance. Purposes: The purpose of this study was to investigate and analyze the relationship between different leadership styles of principals and school performance in Eritrean secondary schools. Research method: The study followed a descriptive research design, and it employed both qualitative and quantitative methods to establish a relationship between leadership styles and school performance. Using non-probability sampling, a sample (N = 375) comprising 30 schools/principals, 250 teachers, 50 students, and 45 parents participated in the study. Findings: The study explored and analyzed the relationship between the two variables, namely leadership styles of principals and school performance. The study found that principals’ leadership styles do influence school performance either positively or negatively, and it has become clear that no single leadership style is appropriate at all times. The study found that democratic and situational leadership styles have a positive impact on school performance; while autocratic and laissez-faire leadership styles were found to have negative impacts on school performance. Conclusion & recommendations: It can be concluded that no single leadership style is appropriate at all times, because no leadership style is right at all times. Based on empirical findings, contrary to established norms in the Eritrean school system, the study recommends that school principals should opt to implement principles of democratic and situational leadership for better school performance. Among other things, the study recommends that school principals should receive professional development to upgrade their leadership capacity in order to improve overall school performance and student attainment.

EURASIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Teaching encompasses leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Teachers, as professionals, ... more Teaching encompasses leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Teachers, as professionals, draw their leadership power from competencies, influences, relationships, or expertise, but current leadership models position teachers as followers, not as leaders. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that teachers, whatsoever their situation, position, or belief may be, are leaders of classrooms and schools without stepping up to formal roles. The Toulmin method of argument was employed to support and reason out the main claim. The findings of the study suggested that leadership is not a special role of a particular person; it includes all facets of schools and communities, particularly teachers. The author argued and identified a number of leadership attributes exhibited by teachers, and subsequently discussed teacher professionalism to show whether it is the only source for teachers to demonstrate leadership. Eventually, it has been concluded and corroborated that teachers, by th...

Journal of Management Information and Decision Sciences, 2021

For agricultural productivity, credit is a necessary input. India's economy is based mostly on ag... more For agricultural productivity, credit is a necessary input. India's economy is based mostly on agriculture. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) seeks to offer farmers with timely and appropriate funds in a flexible and cost-effective manner. The inauguration of the Kisan Finance Card Scheme is a watershed moment in Indian agricultural credit history. Kisan Credit Card (KCC), which was first introduced in 1998-99, allows farmers to purchase agriculture supplies such as seeds, fertilizers, and insecticides as well as withdraw cash to meet their productionrelated needs. The Kisan Loans Card Scheme was designed to make it easier for borrowers to obtain short-term credit from formal financial institutions. Secondary data was collected and evaluated in this research project to examine the growth and variations of the Kisan Credit Card in terms of number and amount sanctioned from 2017 to 2021. The data was analyzed, and a conclusion was reached.

Journal of African Union Studies, 2020

Journal of Reviews on Global Economics, 2020

Motivation: Online shopping is increasingly becoming a global phenomenon. In marketing literature... more Motivation: Online shopping is increasingly becoming a global phenomenon. In marketing literature, utilitarian and hedonic values are well-known consumption values that explain consumer behaviour and consumer decisionmaking. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of utilitarian and hedonic consumption values on consumer attitude towards online shopping that, in turn, influences online purchasing intentions. In doing so, the study aims to deepen the understanding of consumer behaviour in an online environment, which marketing practitioners may find useful as the phenomenon of online shopping gains momentum in the 4 th industrial revolution. Methodology and Methods: This study followed a descriptive research design, and a quantitative research method. Data (sample, n = 215) was collected using a self-administrated questionnaire from consumers with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds through Survey Monkey. The well-known utilitarian and hedonic scales were adapted to suit the online shopping context, and utilised to collect empirical data for the study. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and structural equation modelling were applied to address the research objectives, and to test the hypothesised research model. Data and Empirical Analysis: The study found that four attributes/values, namely wider selection, efficiency, convenience and cost saving are determinants of consumers' utilitarian motivation towards online shopping, while another set of four attributes/values, viz. adventure/explore, gratification, social and idea constituted consumers' hedonic motivation towards online shopping were found. Furthermore, the study found that utilitarian and hedonic motivations are determinants of consumer attitude towards online shopping, while, in turn, consumer attitude was found to be a predictor of online purchasing intentions. Novelty: The study contributes to the literature on the contemporary online shopping phenomenon. Conducted in an emerging economy (South Africa), it provides a deeper understanding of, and an insight into how consumers behave and make decisions in an online environment. Policy Consideration: At a practical level, the paper has devised a tool (framework) for marketing practitioners to utilise in influencing consumer attitude towards online shopping and purchasing intentions, and ultimately conclude a sale through online transaction.

International journal of economics and finance, Jun 1, 2017

increase their intra-regional trade before the implementation of the envisaged monetary union.

International Journal of Research In Business and Social Science, Nov 13, 2022

Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies, Nov 3, 2018

Impulse buying behaviour has been recognised as a key research concern amongst academic researche... more Impulse buying behaviour has been recognised as a key research concern amongst academic researches and marketers. At one time or another a large amount of consumers purchases on impulse. Evidence from the literature indicates that external factors, such as in-store atmosphere, in-store browsing, in-store layout, salespersons, promotions and reference groups are important antecedents of impulse purchases. The cognitive response to act on impulse purchase is triggered by external factors to buy on impulse. This paper reports on a study undertaken to determine the external factors influencing the cognitive response of impulse buying behaviour amongst Generation Y students. Generation Y are labelled as individuals born between 1986 and 2005. The study employed a quantitative method, whereby a structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a non-probability convenience sample of 349 students (aged 18 to 24 years), across two South African public higher education institutions' campuses located in the Gauteng province. The collected data was examined using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.070 that implies that in-store atmosphere, in-store browsing and promotions can predict seven percent of the variance in Generation Y students' cognitive response to buy on impulse, which proposes that other variables influence Generation Y students' cognitive response to buy on impulse.

Mediterranean journal of social sciences, May 1, 2014

In today`s fast-paced business environment, rendering quality service to customers has become cru... more In today`s fast-paced business environment, rendering quality service to customers has become crucially important to any organisation and banks are no exception. The rapid advancement in technology-based systems, especially those related to the Internet, has led to fundamental changes in how banks interact with customers. This study provides insights on a framework for understanding customer perceptions of the quality of technology-based banking service and the relationship with customer satisfaction and loyalty in a developing country. A structured questionnaire containing 37 variables relating to online banking service quality was administered to two hundred Internet banking customers in Southern Gauteng in South Africa (SA). Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perception of online banking service quality were extracted. These factors were assurance, responsiveness, ease of use, accessibility, fulfilment, speed and accuracy, and contact. The relationship among the constructs of online banking service quality, customer satisfaction and loyalty was established by using correlations and regression analysis. The findings provide evidence that the seven dimensions of technology based service quality positively influence customer satisfaction and loyalty. The results show that periodic measurements of the levels of online banking service quality should become an integral part of any bank`s effort and strategy in improving service quality levels.

International Journal of Economics and Financial Issues, Nov 15, 2021

This study utilises the generalised purchasing power parity (GPPP) to assess the feasibility of a... more This study utilises the generalised purchasing power parity (GPPP) to assess the feasibility of a monetary union in the East African Community (EAC) region. Time series and panel vector error correction models (VECM) were used to analyse monthly data from 1996-2016 for the five EAC countries. The cointegration results support the existence of a long-run relationship between the tested variables, providing evidence for the optimum currency area (OCA) and the feasibility of monetary union in the EAC region. The VECM results indicate some differences in the size of the coefficients, suggesting that any change/shock of real exchange rate in the region may cause unintended currency flow from one country to the other in the short-run, and this may constrain the possibility of an effective and efficient monetary union. Therefore, member countries should harmonise their monetary policies well ahead of the implementation of the monetary union the region.

Eurasian journal of business and management, 2021

The purpose of this article is to provide an impact assessment of Covid-19 on the South African a... more The purpose of this article is to provide an impact assessment of Covid-19 on the South African automotive industry. The study is exploratory in nature and employs descriptive quantitative analyses. Monthly time series data (01/2000-01/2021) available from Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) were used for analysis and to achieve the objectives of the study. The results indicate that since the beginning of March 2020, all categories started to show significant contraction, and the worst negative growth was observed in April at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic regulations imposed by the government. Measured in nominal values at current prices and compared on a year-on-year (YOY) basis, the largest negative annual growth rate (contraction) was in used vehicle sales, followed by new vehicle sales, income from sales of accessories, workshop income, fuel sales, and convenient store sales. The overall YOY actual motor trade sales contracted by a massive 84%, and when seasonally adjusted, by 81%. Led by used vehicle sales, the automotive industry was able to recover rather quickly as the restrictions imposed by the government were eased from May 2020 onwards. However, the overall performance of the industry is still in a worse state when compared to the preceding year, 2019. Looking forward, the gradual increase in overall motor trade sales suggests a positive trend of growth.

International Journal of Trade and Global Markets, 2017

Advancements in technology-based systems has resulted in banks using service delivery channels su... more Advancements in technology-based systems has resulted in banks using service delivery channels such as internet banking and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) to interact with customers. To ensure a competitive edge in the marketplace banks' knowledge of the determinants of internet banking service quality is essential. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to investigate consumer views and concerns regarding internet banking services in South Africa. A qualitative research approach using a focus group and in-depth interviews were conducted to collect data from South African consumers of internet banking services. The Atlas.ti software was used in the content analysis of the interview transcripts. Four themes, namely internet banking service quality, customer value, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, were identified as important facets of internet banking services that could improve the overall internet banking service quality at a consumer level.

Mediterranean journal of social sciences, 2014

South Africa has one of the leading banking infrastructures compared to the rest of Africa The So... more South Africa has one of the leading banking infrastructures compared to the rest of Africa The South African banking industry currently faces several strategic changes with significant consequences for untapped markets. Among the strategic changes is the provision of online banking services. This study provides an insight of customer perceptions of technology-based banking service quality in a developing country. A structured questionnaire relating to online banking service quality was administered to two hundred Internet banking customers in the Gauteng province of South Africa. One hundred and eighty (n=180) completed questionnaires were received. Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perception of online banking service quality were extracted. These factors were assurance, responsiveness, ease of use, accessibility, fulfilment, speed and accuracy, and contact. The results show that periodic measurements of the levels of online banking service quality should become an integral part of any bank`s effort and strategy in improving service quality levels. In this regard an understanding of the dimensionality and relative importance of the service attributes of online banking service quality is of crucial importance to banks.

RePEc: Research Papers in Economics, May 1, 2015

Due to technological advancements and innovation, technology-based banking has gained importance ... more Due to technological advancements and innovation, technology-based banking has gained importance as an alternative means of providing services to customers. As a result the understanding and measuring of service quality of technology-based banking has become an indispensable marketing management imperative to bank managers over the recent years. The aim of this paper was to investigate if there are significant differences on customer perceptions of technology-based banking services by certain demographic variables, namely, age and gender. A structured questionnaire was completed by one hundred and eighty customers (n=180). Using a factor analysis procedure seven factors that influence customer perceptions of online banking service quality were extracted. ANOVA was then applied to examine the differences among the means of the socio-biographic variables with regard to their perceptions of the different service dimensions of technology-based banking services. The study revealed that there were significant differences among the different age groups while no significant differences were observed between males and females. The younger age group (under 20 years) seem to rate the quality of the technology-based banking services lower with respect to the following factors: factor 1 (assurance, trust and appeal), factor 5 (fulfilment) and factor 6 (speed and accuracy). Factor 4 (accessibility), was, however, viewed favourably by this age group. Their older and more mature counterparts (50-59 years old) perceived factor 5 (fulfilment) more favourably than did the younger age cohorts. These findings could be used for monitoring and measuring the service levels of online banking service quality to identify areas of improvement.

RePEc: Research Papers in Economics, Apr 1, 2021

The use in this publication of trade names, trademarks, service marks, and similar terms, even if... more The use in this publication of trade names, trademarks, service marks, and similar terms, even if they are not identified as such, is not to be taken as an expression of opinion as to whether or not they are subject to proprietary rights.

Acta Universitatis Danubius. Œconomica, Aug 28, 2020

In a challenging economic and financial environment, it is essential that retail banks uphold rob... more In a challenging economic and financial environment, it is essential that retail banks uphold robust and mutually beneficial relationships with their customers. The youth of today, labelled Generation Y, in particular, is a demanding and lucrative current and future segment for retail banks. For this reason, it is important that retail banks meet the demands of this segment to help bolster trust and confidence in the bank. Understanding the factors that positively influence the Generation Y market segment's trust in retail banks will assist banks in gaining valuable insights into enhancing trust among this customer base. As such, this study attempts to evaluate the factors that influence trust in retail banking among Generation Y consumers in the South African context. The study employed a descriptive research design, and a quantitative research method. A self-administered questionnaire was used to survey a convenience sample of 271 Generation Y banking consumers registered at the campuses of two public universities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Descriptive, reliability, correlations and multivariate regression analysis were performed to address the research problem. The results of the study suggest that Generation Y consumers' perceived value and image of their retail bank as well as their commitment to and satisfaction with their retail bank have a statistically significant positive influence on their trust in the retail bank.

International journal of economics and finance, Dec 1, 2016

In August 2003, the Association of African Central Bank Governors announced that it would strive ... more In August 2003, the Association of African Central Bank Governors announced that it would strive to establish a single currency and common central bank by 2021. Many regional trading blocs and economic communities in Africa are working towards this objective. For example, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) are in the process of introducing monetary union in their respective regions which will be implemented in the near future. Such a decision is set to have wide-ranging economic ramifications if a favourable economic environment does not exist on the ground. The purpose of this paper is to analyse and assess the progress towards monetary union in the SADC and EAC, using the macroeconomic convergence criteria of the two economic regions in the envisaged time frame. This study used annual data, from 1995 to 2015, to analyse the economic feasibility of monetary union in the two African economic regions. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to assess the attainment of the macroeconomic convergence criteria. Based on the finding, it is concluded that monetary union in both SADC and EAC is not feasible, at least in the envisaged timeframe. There is lot to be done in a more consistent and convincing fashion for a sustained period of time before the implementation of monetary union.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), 2016

Innovative marketing, Jun 13, 2023

Customer loyalty and trust are key elements for the success of retail banking. For this reason, i... more Customer loyalty and trust are key elements for the success of retail banking. For this reason, it is crucial to investigate the predictors of these elements. This study aims to model service quality, customer satisfaction, and commitment influencing customer loyalty and trust in South African retail banking. The target population is a growing banking customer segment-Generation Y. A sample of 271 Generation Y customers participated in the survey. Their responses were analyzed using AMOS, whereby a structural equation model was developed. Although the structural model suggests that service quality (β = 0.097; p = 0.175) is an insignificant predictor of customer loyalty in retail banking, the influence remains positive. Moreover, the model infers that customer satisfaction (β = 0.793; p = 0.001) predicts customer loyalty in retail banking and that customer satisfaction (β = 0.715; p = 0.001) and commitment (β = 0.257; p = 0.001) influence trust in retail banking. All the model fit indices (NFI = 0.95; RFI = 0.92; IFI = 0.97; TLI = 0.96; CFI = 0.97; RMSEA = 0.06; SRMR = 0.03) infer that the model is reliable, valid, and ultimately good fitting measurement tool of customer loyalty and trust in retail banking. The results provide insights into the most critical factors in building customer loyalty and trust among Generation Y customers in South African retail banking. Moreover, they can help to develop marketing and customer service strategies to improve these outcomes.