Sustainable circular supply chain management (SCSCM) has become an essential channel to net zero emissions in recent years, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a substantial but understudied role in the shift. However, SMEs face substantial challenges in implementing SCSCM practices due to limited resources and technological capabilities. This paper explores the enablers of artificial intelligence (AI) readiness, organizational, technological, and strategic readiness conditions that ready SMEs to utilize AI to transform SCSCM. To address this the study explicitly links these enablers to net zero mechanisms including emissions reduction through operational optimization, circular resource flows that minimize embodied carbon, and enhanced monitoring and verification of decarbonization progress. The mixed method approaches, that is, literature reviews, theoretical frameworks ("resource-based view theory" [RBV], "dynamic capability theory" [DCT], and "innovation diffusion theory" [IDT]), and expert feedback, are used to identify and categorize the critical enablers. Here, "Best-Worst-Method" (BWM) was used to prioritize, and "Fuzzy Decision-Making-Trial and Evaluation-Laboratory" (F-DEMATEL) was utilized to make a "causal relationship" among the identified enablers. The outcomes of this study suggest that among the main category "skill and strategy-related enablers" and among the sub-category "technology and algorithms for processing data," are the key enablers. And the analysis show that "data and infrastructure," "skill and strategy," and "organizational acceptance and management strategy" are in the cause group, whereas "organizational acceptance and management strategy" and "financial strategy" are in the effect group enablers. The findings of this research offer actionable guidance for SMEs to strategically implement AI-driven sustainable circular supply chain practices, enhancing their operational efficiency and contributing tangibly to the transition toward a net-zero economy.

ABSTRACTIn today's dynamic business landscape, organisations increasingly realise the pivotal role of innovative marketing approaches (IMA) in gaining a competitive edge and driving sustainable growth. However, many organisations encounter formidable barriers to adopting and developing IMA, despite the growing importance of innovative approaches in marketing. The purpose of this research is to identify, prioritise, establish the inter‐relationships and propose a ‘level‐wise structural model’ of the barriers that an organisation faces in adopting and developing IMA. The research employed a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods. An exhaustive review of related literature and theoretical frameworks (namely the ‘resource‐based view’ (RBV) theory, the ‘social capital theory’ (SCT) theory, the ‘innovation resistance theory’ (IRT) theory, and the ‘institutional theory’ (IT) theory), along with expert feedback, are used to categorise and finalise the barriers. Further, a case study from ‘micro, small and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs) in a developing nation such as India along with hybrid ‘multi‐criteria decision‐making’ (MCDM), that is, best‐worst method (BWM), was applied to prioritise the barriers. While ‘interpretive structural modelling’ (ISM) was used to establish contextual relationships, and ‘matrice d'impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment’ (MICMAC) analysis was employed to cluster the barriers. The findings suggest that among the main category technology‐related barriers and from subcategories, infrastructure supports the top barriers and works as a driving obstacle while building IMA for sustainable development. The findings from this study can help develop effective marketing strategies that align profitability with environmental and social responsibility.

Purpose This study aims to identify and conduct an in-depth analysis of barriers and drivers influencing “Green Entrepreneurship” (GE) and “Circular Economy” (CE) in relation to “sustainable development” (SD) using a systematic review and comprehensive analysis (through case studies, prioritizing and making contextual relationships). Design/methodology/approach To fulfill research objectives, “Stakeholder Theory” (ST), “Circular Economy Theory” (CET) and “Dynamic Resource-Based View” (DRBV) theories have been used as theoretical frameworks. In addition to this, the “Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process” (F-AHP) was used to prioritize drivers and barriers and “Interpretive Structural Modelling” (ISM) was used to study interrelationships. Further, “Matrice D’impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée á Un Classment” (MICMAC) is used to cluster drivers and barriers based on the “driving power” and “dependence power.” Findings The study’s findings reveal that supply chain and logistics-related barriers, including inefficient transportation networks and fragmented value chains, are identified as the foremost challenges hindering the growth of GE and the development of a CE. Conversely, regulatory and norms-related drivers, collaboration and networking and sustainable ecosystem management-related drivers are highlighted as pivotal factors fostering GE and CE for sustainable development. Practical implications The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, entrepreneurs and researchers, offering actionable recommendations to accelerate the implementation of sustainable practices in the corporate world. These recommendations contribute to the global pursuit of a greener and more resilient economy, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future. Originality/value This study identifies, analyzes and provides a framework for the major barriers and enablers to implementing GE for CE in SMEs. It might be useful for businesses that want to turn their production systems to achieve sustainability.

Purpose In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on competency-based systems as a means of assessing employee performance. These systems assess the degree to which the competencies of employees align with the requirements of their employment positions. This study aims to identify, prioritize, and make contextual interrelationships of the competency dimensions that are relevant for evaluating employees in the context of Indian manufacturing MSMEs. Design/methodology/approach These dimensions were identified through an extensive literature review and interviews with industry experts. Further, a mixed-methods approach, including the “Bayesian Best-Worst Method” (BBWM), is applied for prioritizing important dimensions, whereas for making mutual relationships, the “Interpretive Structural Modeling” (ISM) method is utilized. “Matrice d'impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment” (MICMAC) is also known as “cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification” is used for clustering competency dimensions based on their “driving power” and “dependence power”. Findings The findings reveal that among the primary dimensions, “creative performance,” and among the sub-dimensions, “innovative behaviors,” are the most critical competency dimensions for an employee assessment. The study also found that “smart working”, “factual and theoretical knowledge”, “empathy at work”, “understanding of specific knowledge”, and “engagement ideas and activities” are the main dimensions driving employees' competency. Originality/value This paper provides contribution to the competence literature by identifying and evaluating competency dimensions for assessing employees' performance within manufacturing MSMEs in an emerging economy such as India. The study also assesses the rank and contextual relationship between the identified dimensions as no past research focused on the same by using BBWM and ISM in the Indian manufacturing MSMEs context.

Despite an increase in research emphasizing the importance of "Green Entrepreneurship" (GE) in creating new business opportunities within the circular economy for "Sustainable Development" (SD), there is still a noticeable lack of studies examining its impact on promoting "Cleaner Production" (CP) and "Circular Economy Practices" (CEP). This study addresses this gap by examining the intricate relationships between "Dynamic Capability" (DC), GE, CP, CEP, and SD. Furthermore, it explores the moderating effect of the "Green Innovation Strategy" (GIS) on the relationship between DC and GE. The bibliometric analysis and "Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling" (PLS-SEM), chosen for their efficacy in identifying relationships, testing the structural model relationship, and assessing GIS moderation effects, reveal that DC significantly contributes to GE, with GIS exerting a notable moderating influence on this association. Additionally, GE positively and substantially impacts CP, CEP, and SD. The study underscores the constructive roles of CP and CEP in fostering SD. This research paper contributes to the existing literature by presenting a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of published research articles to identify key research trends, prolific authors, leading journals, the most cited works, and the interconnections and evolution of knowledge over time. The study also provides valuable insights for businesses, offering actionable recommendations to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in the corporate world and the global pursuit of a greener and more resilient economy, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future.

This study analyzes how the Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) factor, affects healthcare sector businesses' financial distress (FD) as indicated by Z-score. In this research, DER (Debt-Equity Ratio) moderates the relation between ESG and Z-score. The panel data (PD) regression analysis model (PDRAM) is used to examine the data. The data pertains to 33 companies providing healthcare services for twelve years (2011–2022). The debt-equity ratio moderates the relation between the explanatory factors and response factors. This work finds that there exists a non-positive relation established between ESG & Z-score. However, under the moderating impact of the D/E ratio, a positive relationship between Z-score and ESG is reported. This research finds practical implications in policy formulations at the governance level and project management at the corporate level. To the updated knowledge of authors, this research remains unique in analyzing a non-economic indicator's financial aspect in the healthcare sector.

PurposeGreen entrepreneurship (GE) is a novel concept in business and enhances environmentally friendly production and operation activities for “sustainable development” (SD). The aim of this study is to determine the drivers that contribute to the growth and success of “micro, small, and medium enterprises” (MSMEs) in the manufacturing sector in India. The study also examines the mutual and cause-and-effect relationships among these identified drivers.Design/methodology/approachThe study used integrated research methodology and identified nine key drivers of GE (GEDs) through extensive literature reviews, theoretical perspectives (i.e. “resource-based view” (RBV), “natural resource-based view” (NRBV) and “critical success factor theory” (CSFT)), and expert opinions. Further, “total interpretive structural modeling” (TISM) and “matrice d'impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment” (MICMAC) analysis are used here to develop a hierarchical model and cluster the drivers, and fuzzy “decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory” (fuzzy-DEMATEL) is used to develop causal relationships among the drivers. Further, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to ensure the robustness of the results.FindingsResults indicated that green manufacturing and operation capability development, green business process management and attitudes toward developing sustainable business models significantly impacted GE and SD. The findings of this study help managers, policymakers, and practitioners gain an in-depth understanding of the drivers of GE.Research limitations/implicationsThe study considers a limited number of drivers and is specific to Indian manufacturing MSMEs only. Further, a limited number of experts from different enterprises are considered for data analysis. This study is also based on interrelationships and their relative importance based on multicriteria decision-making techniques. This study aids government decision-making, policy formulation and strategic decision-making for manufacturing businesses in achieving SD goals. In addition, this research also encourages green entrepreneurs to start eco-driven companies and facilitate the use of environmentally friendly goods to offset environmental challenges and accomplish sustainable development goals.Originality/valueThis study proposes an integrated methodology that will benefit managers, practitioners and others in developing strategies and innovations to improve and develop green practices. This study further helps with responsive, sustainable business development in various manufacturing MSMEs.

This study investigates the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on sustainable development in India, specifically analyzing the literacy rate's moderating role. Utilizing a quantitative approach through Panel Data Regression Analysis (PDRA) on secondary data, the research is confined to India. Despite this limitation, the study serves as a valuable foundation for future research. The geographical restriction not only provides context-specific insights but also lays the groundwork for broader comparative analyses in diverse global contexts, suggesting avenues for expanding the research agenda.

This research aims to assess the effect of the promoters on the liquidity of Indian banks using the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) as a variable. The risk-weighted assets (RWA) are used as a moderator to assess their effect on NSFR and promoter. The data is analyzed by using the panel data method (PDM). 31 Indian banks were taken as samples in this study for the period from 2010 to 2019. It is observed that the base model shows a positive association between promoters and NSFR, it signifies that an increase in promoter value increases NSFR. In the second model, the impact of a moderator (RWA) is observed on NSFR and promoter and finds a significant and positive association between them. From the implications point of view, the study's findings will aid policymakers in comprehending how changes in promoters impact the NSFR and overall banking industry. The study is unique in the sense that there are rarely any studies being done to assess the relationship between NSFR and promoter. The study also lays the foundation for further studies concerning NSFR, RWA, and promoters.

PurposeIn recent years, "Corporate Social Responsibility" (CSR) has gained significant traction as a strategic concept embraced by business managers. However, there remains a dearth of comprehensive research exploring the impact of CSR on "Green Entrepreneurial Orientation" (GEO), a firm's sustainability performance, and their interplay with other influential factors. Therefore, this study aims to explore how CSR, "Policy Awareness" (PA), and "Personal Innovativeness" (PI) influence GEO and "Sustainable Performance" (SP). The research also delves into understanding the mediating role of GEO and how this mediation is moderated by "Green Innovation" (GI).Design/methodology/approachDrawing from the "natural resource-based view" (NRBV) theory and employing "partial least square structural equation modeling" (PLS-SEM), the study analyzed a sample of 137 Indian manufacturing "micro, small, and medium enterprises" (MSMEs).FindingsThe results underscore the positive associations of CSR and PA with both GEO and SP. Additionally, the findings highlight the moderating effects of GI in enhancing firms' sustainability performance. The moderated mediation analysis reveals that CSR significantly contributes to SP by fostering the adoption of GEO.Research limitations/implicationsThese study outcomes offer valuable insights for policymakers, managers, and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of crafting effective CSR strategies intertwined with innovativeness to cultivate a conducive green entrepreneurial ecosystem in businesses aligned with sustainable development goals.Originality/valueThere is a paucity of research on the determinants of GEO within the context of manufacturing MSMEs, especially in developing and underdeveloped nations. Furthermore, no previous study has delved into the factors that underlie GEO using a moderated mediation framework, particularly within the Indian manufacturing MSMEs landscape.

The exploration of community entrepreneurship (CE) has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the context of academic institutions and driving local economic development. Understanding the barriers and enablers that influence the success of academic institution-based CE ventures (CEV) is of paramount importance. This article investigates the barriers and enablers of academic institution-based CEV using a mixed-methods approach. Drawing on resource dependence theory, sociotechnical systems theory, resource-based view, and social capital theory, the study explores the complex interactions between academic institutions and their surrounding communities, focusing on the establishment and success of CEV. The study employs fuzzy "analytic hierarchy process" and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory methodologies to prioritize and identify the interrelationships among the identified barriers and enablers. The findings reveal that among the main categories of collaboration, infrastructure, and networking barriers (causal barriers), and among the subcategories of barriers, insufficient networking opportunities (causal barriers) are the top barriers. To mitigate these barriers, technology-based enablers (causal enablers) are the top enablers. Policymakers and educational institutions can use the findings to design and implement effective support systems that foster an entrepreneurial culture that promotes sustainable community development and economic growth.

All facets of society may enter the virtual world more quickly due to the rapid development of digital technology, which would blur the boundary between the real and the digital realms and encourage the creation of a Metaverse. In the upcoming decades, metaverse technology-which allows immersive experiences in virtual and real environments-will be the next revolutionary force in society. The Fintech industry has been one of the first to adopt it, and it is one of those that uses technology to resolve problems. The study begins by conceptualizing the Metaverse as being defined explicitly by the convergence of its essential components and its influence on the fintech sector. It further discusses how Metaverse could create value in consumer behaviour in three vicinities: social perception, user identity and advertising & consumer psychology. Finally, the study presents the various implications and future scope of this research by doing the thematic analysis to enhance our understanding of the Metaverse economy and how it influences consumer behaviour. This study provides an overview of the shift occurring in the marketplace and contemplates the various changes that it may bring, all through the perspective of consumer behaviour which can be used to create predictive models that recognize emerging trends in customer behaviour, market activities, and other aspects of the business.

The study's main aim is to determine the role of shareholder activism (SHA) in the performance of the firms. The performance of the firms is viewed as operating performance, valuation, and technical efficiency. The relevant panel data is taken for 78 non-financial firms part BSE-100 index from India for five years (20152019). A shareholder activism index is built to measure shareholder activism. The analysis is conducted at three levels, first, by the linear association, second by nonlinear association and third by using transparency and disclosures (TD) as an interaction term on the association of SHA and the performance of the firms. It is found that SHA significantly influences the firm's operating performance. The nonlinear linkage is significant. A significant positive association of TD as moderating variable on operating performance and efficiency of the firms ensures the supportive role of SHA on the performance of the firms. The study's findings should reduce widespread reluctance and resistance to SHA. The first main implication of the study is that the managers understand the positive role of SHA on the firm's performance. It would be one of the two main implications of the study. The second main implication is for the policymakers. The significant and positive association of SHA for the performance of the firms can be the basis for the long-term policy on SHA. Scarcely available are the studies that have observed on the association of SHA for the efficiency of the firms. This study would be the first such study on the topic. Moreover, the literature does not see the non-linear association of SHA on the firms' operating performance, valuation, and efficiency. This study would be the first such study. Above all, no other study is observed using TD as the moderating variable to study the impact of SHA on the performance of the firms.

This study investigates the critical success factors (CSFs) of marketing automation (MA) for business-to-business (B2B) IT companies. The research employs a distinctive approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods to study the cause–effect phenomena and ascertain the rank of the CSFs to address the lack of comprehensive research in the existing literature. Utilizing the technology acceptance model (TAM) and DeLone & McLean’s information system success model (D&M ISSM) as a theoretical framework, the study underscores the underexplored domain of MA in the B2B IT sector. Expert interviews and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory method (DEMATEL) are employed to understand and rank CSFs comprehensively. Methodological triangulation is applied to the findings of expert interviews and DEMATEL analysis to confirm the CSFs of MA. The study finds that “system integration,” “flexibility and adaptation,” “personalized information,” and “general satisfaction” are the highest-ranked CSFs for adopting MA among B2B IT firms. This study provides valuable insights for managers in B2B IT companies on the CSFs driving MA adoption and effectiveness, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their MA strategies.

One of the most advantageous spillover effects of the rise of Korean wave has been the growing popularity of Korean consumer products including cosmetics, food, fashion, etc. in the foreign countries. Recently, India has been experiencing this and demand for Korean consumer products have seen a steep growth. This paper aims to analyse the Indian consumers’ behaviour while purchasing Korean cosmetics and food products, and what factors impact them via quantitative research through an online questionnaire. The paper also tries to qualitatively understand the growth potential of Korean cosmetics and food brands in India. The paper has used multiple linear regressions for the quantitative study and the results prove that ‘Product Quality’ and ‘Country of origin image’ significantly and positively impact the Purchase intention of Korean cosmetics. Whereas, ‘Product Quality’, ‘Attractiveness of the Korean culture and K-wave’, and ‘Product Price’ significantly impact the Purchase intention of Korean food products. ‘Product Quality’ and ‘Attractiveness of the Korean culture and K-wave’ impact it positively while, ‘Product Price’ has a negative impact i.e., consumers are price sensitive when buying Korean food products because of the availability of alternative brands. The qualitative research shows that Korean beauty brands have evolved in India over time and have great potential due to their natural ingredients, that is preferred by the Indian audience. The Korean food brands are currently expanding in India, but their future potential is something that is yet to be assessed considering the great competition from existing big brands in India.

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities have become essential and viable activities of corporations because of the increase in concern for environmental, social, and governance issues. The motive of this research is to measure the effect of ESG on the financial performance (FP) of healthcare corporations using the market-to-book value (MTB) ratio as a proxy of FP. A sample of 33 pharma companies in India from 2011 to 2020 has been considered. The study relies on the panel data method to assess the association between ESG and FP. The potential moderating role of competition has also been studied to simplify their relationship in this framework. The finding of this study is that there is a significant negative association between ESG and FP, and it is also found that when competition is used as a moderator, it results in a significantly positive impact on the ESG and FP of healthcare companies. This study increases the understanding of the association between ESG and FP and helps corporations to formulate corporate strategies and stakeholders to make investment decisions. The originality of this study is that it addresses the impact of competition on ESG and FP of the healthcare industry and will become foundational literature for future studies.

The study intends to analyze the impact of Financial Inclusion (FI) as viewed from the number of branches and access points of the Indian Post Payment Bank (IPPB) on the Net value added (NVA) by economic activities from banks and the insurance sector. The panel data model (PDM) is used to analyze the data of 19 states collected from 2019 to 2021. Findings indicate a positive impact of FI on NVA, suggesting an increase in the usage of IPPB as a tool of inclusion. This study has its own set of limitations. Certain states are not included in this study due to data unavailability, a shortcoming suggested to be resolved in the future by further studies. To the updated knowledge of authors, the inclusion of the insurance sector along with banks for consideration of NVA as an impact of FI is undertaken for the first time in this study.

In recent years, technological transformation such as Industry fourth revolution or Industry 4.0 (I4.0) has been a critical enabler of digital transformation (DT) and the potential way of business for sustainable development. I4.0 plays a vital role in a business, yet the relationship of digitalization with social sustainability performance (SSP) and sustainable consumption and production (SCP) is little known. Hence, this study examined the relationships between I4.0, "digital entrepreneurship " (DE), DT, SSP, and SCP. Data collected from Indian "microsmall and medium enterprises " were used to assess the proposed model. Research hypotheses were formulated from the previous literature and tested using "partial least-square structural equation modeling. " The empirical test includes confirmatory factor analysis, hypothesis testing, moderation, and multigroup analysis. The finding implies that DT is significantly attained by I4.0 in the manufacturing sector. Furthermore, results indicated that DT significantly impacted SCP and SSP. The study's findings also suggest that DE has substantial moderation effects on DT. Overall, these findings contribute to a well understanding of the significance of technological transformation in sustainable development. Furthermore, the study discussed the theoretical and managerial implications of the result, and future avenues of research were also highlighted.