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Maritime geopolitics and mental health: socio-psychological impacts on strategic tension in the Indian Ocean coastal communities
Purpose This paper aims to explore how maritime geopolitical tensions, especially between China and India, exist in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and impact the mental health and social inclusion of coastal communities. While most strategic analyses focus on military and economic factors, this research incorporates human security perspectives. Design/methodology/approach Using an interdisciplinary framework that combines developmental psychology, strategic studies and geopolitical field analysis, this conceptual study highlights understudied mental health risks through qualitative case studies and secondary data from the IOR. Findings The results indicate that in regions of militarized maritime development, anxiety, chronic stress, identity displacement and communal fragmentation are becoming more common. Stressors include foreign intervention and strategic uncertainty. A disproportionate number of women, children and displaced workers are impacted. Originality/value This study, to the best of the authors knowledge, is one of the first to link psychological health at the grassroots level with maritime security strategy, urges policymakers to incorporate human-centered approaches into regional and national security planning. This study argues that growing strategic anxiety necessitates an integrated approach to national security, one that considers mental health and human security, particularly in regions such as Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
The role of religious and financial factors in eudaimonic well-being among Indian adults
Purpose: The available literature has explored the various psychosocial determinants of well-being to some extent. The earlier works have focused primarily on hedonic well-being with little focus on eudaimonic aspects. Therefore, this study aims to understand the role of parentchild religious attendance during childhood, religious connectedness, and financial-material stability on eudaimonic well-being among adults in India. Design/methodology/approach: The authors used the India data from Global Flourishing Study Wave 1 that addressed flourishing among adults above 18 years. The authors considered 9,076 Indian adults and used descriptive and correlation statistics. In addition, the authors conducted path analysis and t-test. Findings: The likelihood of eudaimonic well-being increased with parentchild religious attendance during childhood (= ?0.044, p < 0.01) along with religious connectedness (= ?0.112, p < 0.01) and financial-material stability (= 0.145, p < 0.01) as an adult. In addition, a significant difference existed in terms of religious connectedness and eudaimonic well-being with income and perceived feelings about income. Originality/value: This study emphasizes financial stabilitys relevance in well-being and suggests the importance of considering religious factors during childhood and adulthood. Emphasizing factors influencing eudaimonic well-being is relevant due to its influence on mental health and quality of life. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
A culturally grounded mental health response to intimate partner violence among tribal women in Wayanad, Kerala: a case study
Purpose This case study aims to develop a culturally grounded mental health intervention for tribal women survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Wayanad, Kerala. It responds to the urgent need for trauma-informed mental health services that resonate with the cultural identities, worldviews and healing traditions of indigenous communities. Design/methodology/approach The intervention was developed through a mixed-methods doctoral research project grounded in Bronfenbrenners Ecological Systems Theory and psychodynamic principles. Data were collected via qualitative interviews with tribal women survivors (n?=?25), quantitative mental health screening and participatory engagement with traditional healers, local leader and Self-Help Group (SHG) facilitators. Thematic analysis and iterative community consultations shaped the design of the intervention. Findings The resulting intervention integrates healing circles, folklore-based psychoeducation, engagement with traditional leaders and SHG-based empowerment. These components reflect indigenous practices, spiritual worldviews and collective resilience strategies. Participants reported increased emotional safety, cultural validation and a sense of solidarity and empowerment. Research limitations/implications The intervention is deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual frameworks of Wayanads tribal communities. This context-specific design may limit the generalizability of the model to other indigenous groups with differing belief systems, social structures or ritual practices. Some biomedical professionals and institutional stakeholders may resist integrating traditional practices due to concerns about scientific validity or standardization. Negotiating these tensions requires ongoing dialogue and institutional buy-in. Differences in cultural practices, taboos and language even within Wayanads tribal groups (e.g. Paniya vs Kurumba) can affect the uniformity of intervention delivery and reception. Practical implications The model can inform mental health practitioners and NGOs working in indigenous or marginalized contexts by offering a flexible, community-rooted intervention framework adaptable across tribal regions. Social implications By legitimizing indigenous knowledge and promoting collective healing, the intervention strengthens social cohesion, reduces stigma around IPV and empowers tribal women to reclaim agency within their communities. Originality/value This is one of the few interventions in India that explicitly centers tribal worldviews in mental health care for IPV survivors. It demonstrates how formal psychological models can be meaningfully adapted through cultural co-creation. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Meaning in life buffers mental health risks in South Indian transgender (Hijra) women
Purpose This study aims to investigate the mediating role of meaning in life (MIL) in the relationships among depression, anxiety, stress (DAS) and quality of life (QOL) among transgender (Hijra) women in South India. The concept of QOL extends beyond the absence of negative mental states such as DAS; it includes overall mental health, well-being and personal evaluations of life circumstances. Design/methodology/approach This study is based on a sample survey of 302 transgender women selected via convenience sampling from five states in South India. The MIL scale, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and QOL tools were culturally validated and tested, with reliability confirmed through a pilot study (n = 15). Correlation, regression and mediation analyses were conducted to explore the relationships. Findings A strong positive correlation between MIL and QOL was found. The DAS score has a significant negative correlation with QOL. The Presence of Meaning (PoM) subscale emerged as a crucial predictor for overall QOL, whereas the Search for Meaning (SoM) subscale showed predictive value for psychological health. MIL negatively mediates the relationship between DAS, and QOL, suggesting that it buffers mental health risks. Originality/value These findings reinforce the notion that meaning-making is an active life-affirming process, particularly for transgender women navigating adversity. The POM enriches the QOL and acts as a buffer against existential despair. This highlights the need for interventions that foster meaning-making as a pathway to resilience, emphasizing agency, authenticity and purpose pursuit in the face of existential anxiety. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Beyond brick and mortar: determinants of retail investors investment intention in indirect real estate through REITs in India
Purpose: This research aims to identify the factors that influence the investment intention of retail investors in Indian REITs. The study incorporates the theory of planned behavior and innovation diffusion theory as the research framework, with perceived risk and mass media influence as additional constructs. Design/methodology/approach: Primary data were collected using self-administered questionnaires from 534 potential investors in India. The data were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling. Findings: The study showed that factors such as relative advantage, compatibility, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and mass media significantly and positively influence investment intention in Indian REITs. However, perceived risk was found to have a negative and significant influence, while complexity did not affect investment intention. Originality/value: This is the first quantitative investigation into determining the factors influencing the investment intention of Indian retail investors on Indian REITs. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Is corporate reputation associated with voluntary cybersecurity risk reporting?
Purpose: This study investigated the effect of voluntary cybersecurity risk reporting (VCRR) on corporate reputation. By examining the association between VCRR and corporate reputation, this study aims to provide exploratory evidence of how cybersecurity risk is sensitive to a companys image and reputation. Design/methodology/approach: An automated content analysis of VCRR by 95 Bombay Stock Exchange-listed companies was undertaken using Python code. Signaling and legitimacy theories were adopted to interpret the findings, establishing whether VCRR was related to corporate reputation. Findings: The results confirm that VCRR improves the corporate reputation in the financial market. The results also confirm the signalling and legitimacy theory that a company can manage reputational risks through higher voluntary risk disclosure. Practical implications: The corporations managers can gain insights from the studys findings and proactively address cybersecurity risks through strategic disclosure and management practices. In addition, organizations can recognize that investors value transparency and establish a positive reputation for those who communicate openly. Social implications: A significant association between VCRR and corporate reputation implies that such disclosures enhance trust and transparency in the business sector and induce security and accountability among investors engaging with the company. Originality/value: To the best of the authors knowledge, this study is the first that empirically investigates this issue and adds to the international literature a new explanatory variable, corporate reputation, to explain VCRR practices. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Key factors shaping personalised employee experience for the Generation Z workforce
Purpose: The workplace has evolved to meet growth and sustainability requirements due to the changing landscape of work scenarios. Soon, Generation Z will be the largest share of the workforce globally as the digital era predominantly shapes Generation Zs behaviour; previous research shows that the corporate work culture has been bound to tailor policies to recruit, retain and motivate them. Thus, this paper aims to absorb the essence of the personalisation of employee experience for Generation Z. Design/methodology/approach: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the factors Generation Z consider important for a better workspace culture with reference to personalisation. Hence, factor analysis was employed as an exploratory method using data from 235 respondents based in South Bangalore a diverse region known as the Silicon Hub, attracting employees from across India. Findings: The study identifies three primary factors that are crucial for personalising the employee work experience: Employee Empowerment, Work Flexibility and Artificial Intelligence Integration, which helps employers understand the need for Generation Z workplace requirements. Research limitations/implications: The study indicates that employers should find ways to improve retention strategies by the concept of personalisation towards Generation Z's distinct workplace preferences. Practical implications: Employers should find ways to improve retention strategies by personalisation confined towards GenZers and involving other generations, making the workplace more flexible and pleasant for exhibiting skills and upscaling the employees career. Originality/value: This study delves into the factors influencing Generation Zs point of view on the personalisation of employee experience provided to them in their respective workplace. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Designing an artificial intelligence-enabled large language model for financial decisions
Purpose Artificial intelligence (AI) has profoundly reshaped financial decision-making, introducing a paradigm shift in how institutions and individuals navigate the complex finance landscape. The study evaluates the significant impact of integrating advanced AI and large language models (LLMs) in financial decision analytics. Design/methodology/approach The study offers FinSageNet, a novel framework designed and tested to harness the potential of LLMs in financial decisions. The framework excels in handling and analyzing large volumes of numerical and textual data through advanced data mining techniques. Findings FinSageNet demonstrates exceptional text summarization capabilities, outperforming models like FLAN and GPT-3.5 in Rouge score metrics. The proposed model has shown more accuracy than generic models. Originality/value The study emphasizes the significance of consistently updating models and adopting a comprehensive approach to integrating AI into financial decisions. This study improves our understanding of how artificial intelligence transforms financial analytics and decision-making processes. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Measuring and monitoring Indias progress toward environmental SDGs: variables influencing the advancement
Purpose: The purpose of this study is the progressive assessment of Indian companies performance on environment-related sustainable development goals (SDGs). The study also aims to analyze the impact of a wide range of governance and firm-level determinants such as board size, gender diversity, board independence, top management commitment, presence of a sustainability committee and experience in nonfinancial reporting on environment-related SDGs performance. Design/methodology/approach: Using a mixed-method approach, this paper developed a framework for assessing business progress on environment-related SDGs by mapping targets of SDGs with indicators of global reporting initiative (GRI) standards. The framework is applied to evaluate the sustainability report of 46 Indian companies for six years for environment-related SDG performance. Multivariate linear regression analysis examines the impact of various governance and firm characteristics on this performance. Findings: The assessment framework identified improved reporting in all categories but significantly increased socio-environmental and socio-economic-environmental categories. Companies in the utility sector performed well, while those in the healthcare industry did not meet expectations. The pooled OLS panel regression results revealed a positive and significant impact of top management commitments, experience in nonfinancial reporting, board gender diversity and sustainability committee on the environment-related SDG disclosure scores. Research limitations/implications: Geographical limitations may limit the generalization in developed countries. The developed SDG assessment framework may help firms choose a business strategy for greater contribution and a governance structure to match this strategy. Investors can receive insight from measured performance, and regulators can lay policies, targets and incentives for different industries based on the interpretation of performance. Originality/value: This study developed an assessment framework to capture the positive business contributions to environment-related SDG and its trends. It sheds light on the critical interaction between corporate governance, management committees, experience in financial reporting and environmental SDG performance to increase the understanding of the determinants of SDG performance. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Unveiling metaverse sentiments using machine learning approaches
Purpose: The metaverse, which is now revolutionizing how brands strategize their business needs, necessitates understanding individual opinions. Sentiment analysis deciphers emotions and uncovers a deeper understanding of user opinions and trends within this digital realm. Further, sentiments signify the underlying factor that triggers ones intent to use technology like the metaverse. Positive sentiments often correlate with positive user experiences, while negative sentiments may signify issues or frustrations. Brands may consider these sentiments and implement them on their metaverse platforms for a seamless user experience. Design/methodology/approach: The current study adopts machine learning sentiment analysis techniques using Support Vector Machine, Doc2Vec, RNN, and CNN to explore the sentiment of individuals toward metaverse in a user-generated context. The topics were discovered using the topic modeling method, and sentiment analysis was performed subsequently. Findings: The results revealed that the users had a positive notion about the experience and orientation of the metaverse while having a negative attitude towards the economy, data, and cyber security. The accuracy of each model has been analyzed, and it has been concluded that CNN provides better accuracy on an average of 89% compared to the other models. Research limitations/implications: Analyzing sentiment can reveal how the general public perceives the metaverse. Positive sentiment may suggest enthusiasm and readiness for adoption, while negative sentiment might indicate skepticism or concerns. Given the positive user notions about the metaverses experience and orientation, developers should continue to focus on creating innovative and immersive virtual environments. At the same time, users' concerns about data, cybersecurity and the economy are critical. The negative attitude toward the metaverses economy suggests a need for innovation in economic models within the metaverse. Also, developers and platform operators should prioritize robust data security measures. Implementing strong encryption and two-factor authentication and educating users about cybersecurity best practices can address these concerns and enhance user trust. Social implications: In terms of societal dynamics, the metaverse could revolutionize communication and relationships by altering traditional notions of proximity and the presence of its users. Further, virtual economies might emerge, with virtual assets having real-world value, presenting both opportunities and challenges for industries and regulators. Originality/value: The current study contributes to research as it is the first of its kind to explore the sentiments of individuals toward the metaverse using deep learning techniques and evaluate the accuracy of these models. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Studying the contribution of digital economy on entrepreneurship and innovative systems: pathway to sustainable development
Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of digital economy on fostering entrepreneurship and innovative systems. Through comprehensive analysis, the study identifies potential contributors shaping the digital economys involvement to entrepreneurship and innovation systems. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a modified total interpretive structural modeling approach which delves into the complex interrelations between digital economy, entrepreneurial activities, innovation ecosystems and sustainable development objectives. In addition, the authors explain the hierarchical structure and mutual influences among various contributors, highlighting critical pathways and feedback loops. Findings The findings from the study illustrate the contributors of digital economy on entrepreneurship and innovative systems such as supporting regulatory framework, information democratization and outreach and awareness at the bottom level. Furthermore, the study assesses the implications of these findings, including economic growth, job creation, enhanced competitiveness and societal well-being. Moreover, it explores the potential for addressing environmental challenges and fostering inclusive development through digital innovation. Originality/value By providing a nuanced understanding of the dynamics between digital economy, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable development, this study offers actionable insights for policymakers, businesses and stakeholders seeking to leverage digital technologies for long-term socioeconomic progress. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Meta AI features on users flow experience and acceptance in the beauty and cosmetics industry: moderating role of Meta AI literacy
Purpose This study aims to integrate Artificial Intelligence Device Use Acceptance, diffusion of innovation and flow theory to explore the impact of innovation dimensions (primary appraisal) on user flow experience (UFEx) (secondary appraisal) and users willingness to accept Meta artificial intelligence (AI) features (Outcome). The moderating role of Meta AI literacy in the relationships among primary appraisal, secondary appraisal and the outcome were also examined. Design/methodology/approach This study used covariance-based structured equation modelling to analyse the data collected from 383 respondents who use Meta AI features for beauty and cosmetic products on social media. Findings The findings of the study indicates that compatibility and observability positively influence users flow experience, which subsequently impacts users willingness to accept Meta AI features on social media. Furthermore, Meta AI literacy positively moderates the relationship between relative advantage, compatibility, trialability, observability and users flow experience. Originality/value This study introduces a unique framework grounded on Meta AI features in social media, particularly in beauty and cosmetics, contributing to the literature on Meta AI, UFEx and willingness to accept. This research makes a novel attempt to explore how Meta AI literacy shapes the links among primary appraisal, secondary appraisal and outcomes. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Embedding behavioral biases into robo-advisory platforms-case of UAE investors
Purpose: This study aims to identify individuals' biases while making investment decisions and explore how these biases can be incorporated into a robo-advisory platform to help mitigate these biases. This paper identifies eight investment-related behavioral biases: mental accounting, gamblers fallacy, hindsight, regret aversion, disposition, trend-chasing, loss aversion and herding. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses primary data from 263 respondents across various age groups, of which approximately 50 were wealth management professionals in the UAE. A random sampling method from probability sampling is employed to gather the primary data. The identified biases serve as dependent variables; the age and income of individuals serve as the independent variables. Findings: Age and income are significantly related to mental accounting, herding, gambler fallacy and loss aversion. Existing studies on behavioral finance demonstrate that individuals who make investment decisions are susceptible to cognitive fallacies, leading to nonrational investment decisions. Practical implications: By studying these biases affecting individuals of varying ages and income levels, wealth management professionals can tailor their financial robo-advisory services to address these biases and help clients build wealth with consistent investment. Originality/value: This study uses survey-based sampling in the context of the UAE; hence, the data and analysis represent originality. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Mindlessness by design: how digital platforms shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z
Purpose This paper aims to examine how digital platform architectures shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z. It challenges deficit-based views of mindlessness, situating distraction, procrastination and diminished attention within the structural logics of the attention economy rather than individual failure. Design/methodology/approach This commentary synthesizes illustrative and representative evidence from psychological, cognitive, sociological and policy literatures across Indian and global contexts to advance a conceptual account of platform-induced mindlessness as a socio-technical phenomenon, rather than undertaking a systematic or exhaustive review. Findings Excessive smartphone use, algorithmic personalization and media multitasking erode attentional control, academic performance and emotional resilience while weakening face-to-face interaction and civic participation. These patterns reflect engagement-maximization strategies embedded in digital infrastructures and mark a shift from situational distraction to structurally conditioned cognition. Originality/value By reframing mindlessness as a systemic rather than moral issue, this paper advances the concept of structural accountability in digital life. It calls for reforms in platform governance, digital literacy and public policy to promote psychological well-being and civic inclusion through collective and interdisciplinary responsibility. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Modelling for working capital efficiency: integrating SBM-DEA and artificial neural networks in Indian manufacturing
Purpose: This study aims to present an innovative predictive methodology that transitions from traditional efficiency assessment techniques to a forward-looking strategy for evaluating working capital management(WCM) and its determinants by integrating data envelopment analysis (DEA) with artificial neural networks (ANN). Design/methodology/approach: A slack-based measure (SBM) within DEA was used to evaluate the WCME of 1,388 firms in the Indian manufacturing sector across nine industries over the period from April 2009 to March 2024. Subsequently, a fixed-effects model was used to determine the relationships between selected determinants and WCME. Moreover, the multi-layer perceptron method was applied to calculate the artificial neural network (ANN). Finally, sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the relative significance of key predictors on WCME. Findings: Manufacturing firms consistently operate at around 50% WCME throughout the study period. Furthermore, among the selected variables, ability to create internal resources, leverage, growth, total fixed assets and productivity are relatively significant vital predictors influencing WCME. Originality/value: The integration of SBM-DEA and ANN represents the primary contribution of this research, introducing a novel approach to efficiency assessment. Unlike traditional models, the SBM-DEA model offers unit invariance and monotonicity for slacks, allowing it to handle zero and negative data, which overcomes the limitations of previous DEA models. This innovation leads to more accurate efficiency scores, enabling robust analysis. Furthermore, applying neural networks provides predictive insights by identifying critical predictors for WCME, equipping firms to address WCM challenges proactively. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Understanding learner adoption of generative AI-powered Ed-Tech applications by dissertation-based master students
Purpose This study aims to investigate the elements that influence master students' behavioral intentions to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) in educational contexts. It examines attitudes toward technology, effort expectancy and performance expectancy, with knowledge sharing as a mediating variable, to develop targeted interventions for enhancing the adoption of generative AI in Education Technology (Ed-Tech). Design/methodology/approach The study uses a stratified random sampling method. This sampling technique ensured that participants from various academic disciplines and dissertation themes were well-represented in the sample, thereby increasing data variety and representativeness. The population size was approximately 6, 034, and a sample of 392 participants was chosen for the study. The study employed a tripartite approach, utilizing IBM SPSS and AMOS to evaluate the validity and reliability of the investigated constructs. Structural equation modeling was then applied to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings The results emphasize the importance of Ed-Tech competencies, effort expectancy and performance expectancy in determining students' intent to use generative AI. Furthermore, the mediating role of knowledge sharing emphasizes its influence on technological adoption. Originality/value This study provides practical implications for academic institutions by informing tailored approaches to optimize student learning outcomes, dissertation progress and graduate employability. Through a comprehensive framework, it aims to promote inclusive technology access and create an environment conducive to maximizing the potential of generative AI-Ed-Tech in enhancing student success. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited. -
An integrated model to predict students online learning behavior in emerging economies: a hybrid SEMANN approach
Purpose: The online learning environment is a function of dynamic market forces constantly restructuring the e-learning landscapes complete ecosystemcape. This study aims to propose an e-learning framework by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to predict students Online Learning Readiness and Behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 406 students through a survey. The data were analysed using two-stage structural equation modelling and artificial neural network (ANN). Findings: The studys results revealed that perceived ubiquity (PUB) positively influences perceived ease of use, usefulness and attitude. Similarly, perceived mobility significantly influences perceived ease of use and attitude. Furthermore, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and perceived usefulness significantly influence readiness to learn online, which further influences students online learning behaviour. The root-mean-square error (RMSE) values obtained from the ANN analysis indicate the models predictive solid accuracy. Originality/value: The study contributes to the existing literature by proposing an Online Learning Behaviour Model by integrating the TAM and the TPB frameworks in association with two additional constructs, PUB and Perceived Mobility. Secondly, this study proposes a unique triangulation framework of recommendations for learners, educators and policymakers. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Role of corporate innovation and uncertainty in determining corporate investment of the firm: does financial constraint, executive risk preference and firm risk-taking ability play any role
Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the relationship between corporate innovation and the firms corporate investment. Further, the authors begin with the assertion that the relationship between corporate innovation and corporate investment is impacted by significantly a) uncertain periods, b) financial constraint, c) executives risk preference and d) firm risk-taking ability. Design/methodology/approach: This study has considered non-financial listed companies (774 firms) for the period spanning from 20102022. The authors use a fixed effect regression model within a panel data framework to examine the relationship between corporate innovation and investment. For robustness, the authors use system generalised methods of moments to investigate the relationship between corporate investment and corporate innovation across all the samples. Findings: This study finds a positive relationship between corporate innovation and corporate investment, which means when the firm tries to make some innovation, it will increase its expenditure on fixed assets. However, the positive relationship between corporate innovation and corporate investment reduces with uncertainty. Additionally, financial constraint plays a significant role in determining this relationship. Executives and firms with high risk-taking ability tend to be more inclined to make investments. Originality/value: The study is unique because it determines the impact of corporate innovation on corporate investment. The current literature is focused on corporate innovation and uncertainties. However, no light has been shed on the relationship between corporate innovation and investment. At the same time, the authors have introduced three more variables which play a significant role in determining the corporate innovation-investment relationship. , Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Viewers response towards brand placements credibility in reality shows: does brand image matter?
Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of brand placements in reality shows on viewer perceptions. Specifically, it aims to explore whether the brand image of a reality show influences the credibility of these placements and how viewers respond to such integrations. By examining this relationship, the paper contributes valuable insights for marketers, advertisers and content creators seeking to optimise brand placements within reality television. Design/methodology/approach A conceptual model based on source credibility theory was developed. The hypothesised relationships were tested using the partial least squares-structural equation modelling method. Data was separately collected through a stimulus-based questionnaire. For the final data analysis, 393 usable questionnaires were used. Findings Through rigorous analysis, the authors unearthed several key findings. Firstly, brands with a positive image significantly enhance the credibility of their placements. Viewers are more receptive to products associated with reputable and relatable brands. Secondly, the seamless integration of brands within the shows narrative fosters authenticity. Viewers perceive placements as less intrusive and more credible when placements align with the programs context. Thirdly, not all viewers respond uniformly. Demographics, lifestyle and viewing habits influence how brand placements resonate. Tailoring strategies to specific audience segments is essential. Originality/value Prior research on brand placements predominantly concentrated on quantitatively investigating films and video games. Nevertheless, these studies have not included viewers consuming behaviours in reality shows. Previous empirical studies in reality shows have not developed a conceptual model incorporating the identified moderator (reality show brand image) to explain the impact of brand placements in reality shows. Finally, this study unravelled the complexities of viewer engagement and its potential impact on consumer behaviour by examining the moderating role of pre-existing brand image on audience receptivity. 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited -
Corporate social initiatives and wealth creation for firms-an empirical examination
Purpose: This study aims to examine whether social initiatives adopted by firms lead to improved financial performance. The authors analyse the impact of different elements of social initiatives on wealth creation for firms in terms of operating and market performance. Design/methodology/approach: The study is based on the social initiative scores of over 4,500 firms collected from Thomson Reuters' ESG database. The study uses two-stage least squares (2SLS) to analyse the relationship between social initiatives and firm performance. Findings: Profitable, mature, capital intensive and firms with high sales growth rate tend to invest more in social initiatives. Firms with high agency costs invest in social initiatives for workforce efficiency, maintaining human rights and product responsibility. The study documents evidence that social investments are value creating mechanism for firms which leads to improved financial performance in terms of operating and stock market performance. Firms with high dividend intensity invest in social initiatives for workforce welfare and human rights initiatives. Investment in employee well-being and community initiatives results in intangible benefits such as improved stock market valuation. Practical implications: The research model has not considered the impact of intervening variables to understand the relationship between corporate social performance and corporate financial performance. Social implications: Firms ought to recognize that social investment is beneficial in terms of value creation of firms as stock market perceive such investments favourably. Firms must focus more on community development initiatives and workforce initiatives for the value creation of firms compared to investments directed towards human rights initiatives and product responsibility initiatives. Originality/value: This study focusses exclusively on the social dimension of the CSR activities. The authors examine the impact of social welfare scores on firm performance by analysing the valuation effects on scores representing workforce, human rights, community and product responsibility. Moreover, the paper also examines the impact of a new dimension of product responsibility on firm performance. They also focus on both aspects of financial performance in terms of operating performance (proxied by ROE) and the joint impact of both operating and market performance (proxied by Tobins Q). This paper contributes to the research on the linkage of social performance to financial performance by observing that firms with high agency cost characteristics tend to invest in social initiatives for work force efficiency, maintaining human rights and product responsibility. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited.