International Journal of Accounting, Finance, Auditing, Management and Economics

Resistance to Change and Organizational Agility: A Proposal for a Conceptual Research Model

2025-03-04T01:10:39+00:00

This article proposes a conceptual model to examine the relationship between resistance to change and organizational agility, based on a narrative literature review. The theoretical findings reveal that, although often perceived as an obstacle to agility, resistance to change can become a resource if properly managed. Conversely, inadequate management of this resistance may hinder the development of organizational agility. While this model is grounded in theoretical contributions, its lack of empirical validation represents a major limitation, calling for future research to test its applicability in various organizational contexts. In terms of implications, this research makes a theoretical contribution by structuring a conceptual framework to better understand the link between resistance and agility. It also offers perspectives for managers by highlighting the importance of proactive resistance management to optimize organizational flexibility in response to technological and strategic transformations.

Keywords : Organizational agility, resistance to change, literature review, organizational flexibility, conceptual framework.

Classification JEL : D21-D22-H12

Paper type : Theoretical Research

Family entrepreneurship in Morocco: Dynamics of succession, innovation, and sustainability in the face of contemporary challenges

2025-03-07T22:30:46+00:00

Family businesses play a vital role in the global economy, shaping both local and international markets through their unique blend of tradition and entrepreneurship. This study explores the challenges faced by Moroccan family enterprises, particularly in succession planning, innovation adoption, and sustainability. Based on semi-structured interviews with business owners and key stakeholders, the research highlights the delicate balance these businesses must strike between preserving their legacy and adapting to modern economic pressures. Findings indicate that informal governance structures often hinder long-term strategic planning, making succession a complex and sometimes contentious process. However, openness to innovation and evolving leadership dynamics, particularly the growing role of women in decision-making, are emerging as key drivers of resilience. Additionally, Moroccan family businesses are increasingly committed to corporate social and environmental responsibility, recognizing that sustainability can be a competitive advantage rather than a constraint. While the study offers valuable insights, its focus on Moroccan family enterprises means that findings may not be fully generalizable to other contexts. A comparative analysis across different regions would further enrich our understanding of family business dynamics. From a practical standpoint, the research underscores the importance of structured governance frameworks and strategic planning in ensuring long-term competitiveness. It also encourages policymakers and business support organizations to provide tailored guidance and resources that help family enterprises navigate intergenerational transitions and market transformations. By shedding light on the evolving landscape of Moroccan family entrepreneurship, this study contributes to a broader conversation on the adaptability and resilience of these businesses in a rapidly changing economic environment.

Keywords: Family entrepreneurship, intergenerational succession, innovation, family governance, sustainability, social responsibility

JEL Classification: L26 Entrepreneurship

Paper type: Empirical research

Financial development and economic growth: the effect of public debt

2025-03-07T22:33:27+00:00

The objective of this article is to analyse the relationship between financial development and economic growth, taking into account the level of public debt in 88 countries from 1996 and 2020. Two measures of financial development has been used : the ratio of credit granted to the private sector to GDP and the liquid assets of the financial system relative to GDP. To perform the estimates, the generalized method of moments was selcted. Two main result were obtained. First, there is no positive contribution between financial development and economic growth. Second, financial development does not stimulate economic growth in countries where the level of public debt is high. Spécifically, when public debt reach 65% or 72% of GDP, financial development does not positively impacts economy growth. However, financial development is beneficial for growth in countries where public debt is low or modarate, it is to say when it less than 65% or 72% of GDP. For financial development to positively impact economic growth, it is important for heavily indebted countries to bring their debt down to an optimal level. But it is equally crucial that borrowing by low-debt countries is used to finance productive investments.

Keywords : Financial development, economic growth, public debt, , GMM

JEL Classification : E44 ; G20 ; O4

Paper type : Empirical research

Resilience of logistics supply chains and the development of innovative entrepreneurship in Morocco

2025-03-07T22:36:48+00:00

This study examines the impact of supply chain resilience on innovative entrepreneurship in Morocco, considering digital transformation and logistics risk management in an increasingly uncertain environment. Using a hypothetico-deductive approach, we conducted a quantitative study on 134 companies in the Tanger-Tetouan region. We employed Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SPSS and SMART PLS software to analyze direct and mediating relationships among four key variables: digital transformation (advanced technologies, process digitization, data management), logistics risk management (identification, assessment, response), supply chain resilience (flexibility, redundancy, recovery speed, sustainability), and innovative entrepreneurship. The findings reveal that logistics risk management plays a crucial mediating role between digital transformation and resilience, emphasizing the importance of strategic adoption of digital technologies and proactive risk management practices to enhance supply chain robustness and competitiveness. Consequently, this contributes to a significant increase in innovative entrepreneurship in Morocco.

Keywords: Digital transformation, risk management, supply chain resilience, supply chain, innovative entrepreneurship, Morocco.

Classification JEL: L26, J20

Paper Type: Empirical Research

The Knowledge-Based Economy and the Economic Growth in Morocco: An Econometric Analysis

2025-03-07T22:41:29+00:00

The main aim of this research is to study the impact of the determinants of the new economy or knowledge economy on economic growth in Morocco, for a period from 1990 to 2023 (a sample of 34 years). To do this, our analysis is based on the study of four key elements that define the knowledge economy domain according to the World Bank and the OECD. The four factors used are the education system, which is a key element of the knowledge-based economy, measured by expenditure on education, and is an essential element in the development of human capital; innovation, measured by the number of patent applications filed, which is a key indicator of the creativity and efficiency of innovation systems; and the use of information technologies, measured by the number of patent applications filed, which is an essential element in the development of human capital, the use of information and communication technologies (ICT), quantified by the number of Internet users, which are also essential for ensuring easy access to information, and finally, institutional quality, measured by the quality of regulation, which is a fairly important measure for ensuring a favorable environment for research and development.

Through an econometric study, the results obtained indicate that although progress has been made in certain sectors such as education and digitalization, Morocco is still a long way from full integration into a knowledge-based economy.

The Moroccan government must therefore redouble its efforts to improve its skills in each of these four sectors. And this greater involvement in the knowledge economy could help to accelerate Morocco's economic growth and optimize its place on the international stage.

Keywords: Knowledge Economy, Economic Growth, Morocco

JEL Classification: O39

Paper type: Empirical Research

Analysis of researcher’s practices and perceptions regarding the economic exploitation of results from academic research

2025-03-09T00:05:23+00:00

Given that Moroccan universities have several research results that could have significant economic applications and that public and academic authorities explicitly support this economic valorization, this research aims to explore researchers' practices and gather their perceptions regarding the economic valorization of results derived from university research. This research employs a systemic and conceptual approach based on a literature review on the notion of the economic valorization of university research, covering a geographical area that includes many countries generally recognized for their expertise in the field. The nature and objective of the research we have set for ourselves lead us to choose an exploratory approach based on a unique case study that combines quantitative and qualitative methods. Several results related to researchers' attitudes towards the valorization of results and the missions assigned to the university have been presented and analyzed based on several explanatory factors.

Keywords: Economic exploitation, scientific research, university, researchers, research results

JEL Classification: O3

Paper Type: Empirical Research

The PESTEL model for the strategic management of Football clubs

2025-03-07T22:48:29+00:00

In a context where sports clubs must navigate an ever-changing environment, analyzing external factors becomes essential to defining suitable strategies. This paper examines how Moroccan sports clubs, faced with structural, financial, and organizational challenges, can adapt their strategies in response to a complex and uncertain external environment. Using the PESTEL model, the study analyzes the political, economic, sociocultural, technological, environmental, and legislative influences shaping their external context. The methodology is based on a critical review of available data and the application of the PESTEL framework to identify opportunities and threats affecting these organizations. The findings highlight the importance of a thorough understanding of external factors to develop effective strategies. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for Moroccan clubs to adopt a proactive and structured approach to ensure their long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

Keywords: Strategic management, economic performance, strategic change, external context, PESTEL analysis

JEL Classification: Z20

Paper type: Empirical research

Experience of public institutions in professional training and employability of socially vulnerable persons: case of Bepanda Multifunctional Center

2025-03-09T00:04:29+00:00

The question of quality Vocational Training (VT) linked to employability is acute despite the numerous reforms and actions that have been undertaken over the past few decades (AFDB, 2023). To remedy this, the Cameroonian Government created the Bepanda Multifunctional Center intended for the VT and employability of Socially Vulnerable Persons (PSV).

However, the exploratory investigation reveals some pitfalls that generate a problem of the real diagnosis of the impact of public training centers in the adequacy between the VT practices provided to PSVs and employability requirements. The objective of this research is to understand, identify and even evaluate the real contribution of VT practices to the employability of PSVs. The research methodology is qualitative with a single site case study carried out by a purposive sampling with semi structured individual interviews leading to a content analysis.

The results reveal a mixed picture due to the mismatch between VT and the employability of PSVs, consequently leading to their low employability in the formal sector, failures of entrepreneurial initiatives that generate little income in the informal sector, extreme precariousness further complicating their social inclusion among others. There are some prospects for improvements related to the reorganization of VT practices and the permanent support of PSVs regarding their employability. Finally, this article contributes to the increasement of avenues for reflection treating some debates like social justice in terms of skills development in the areas of human resource management, sociology of vulnerabilities and social economy.

Key words: Practices, vocational training, socially vulnerable persons, employability, public institutions.

JEL classification: D73, E60

Paper type: Empirical research

Taking out life insurance in Cameroon: analysis of household resistance factors

2025-03-09T00:02:50+00:00

The main objective of our research is to analyse the factors that explain customers' resistant behaviour when taking out life insurance in Cameroon. Our study therefore uses a quantitative approach. Our sample is made up of 303 insurance company customers interviewed in the cities of Yaoundé and Douala. The inferential statistical analysis will use multiple linear regression preceded by principal component analysis (PCA) to extract the dimensions of the variables used in our research. The econometric manipulations by the OLS method through the use of the STUDENT test and the FISHER test provide information on the individual and global significance of the parameters of the multiple linear regression model in order to evaluate the influence of the independent variables extracted from the PCA on the resistant behaviour of clients in subscribing to life insurance in Cameroon. At the end of our investigations in the field, we found that economic and socio-cultural factors strongly explain the resistant behaviour of consumers to taking out life insurance in Cameroon. To overcome these obstacles, it is essential to set up targeted awareness campaigns, improve the transparency of insurance offers and strengthen trust between insurers and consumers. In addition, initiatives to integrate life insurance into financial education programmes could also promote a better understanding of its benefits.

Keywords: life insurance, resistant behaviour, ACP, MRLM, MCO, STUDENT, FISHER

EL Classification: D12 C10 G22

Paper type: Empirical research

The sports society in Morocco: a legal and financial approach

2025-03-07T23:13:52+00:00

The restructuring of the sports sector is a priority for the Moroccan legislator, who establishes the promotion of sports companies as a central pillar of this reform. These transformations aim to strengthen the structuring and regulation of the sports sector while promoting its expansion at all levels and reinforcing its fundamental educational and social values. Law 30-09 introduces significant advancements in this regard but also reveals certain limitations. For sports companies to fully benefit from these reforms, a thorough understanding of the accounting and tax treatment of their operations is essential, both at the time of their incorporation and throughout their development. A rigorous legal and financial analysis of the applicable legislation is necessary to identify its strengths and shortcomings and to consider the necessary adjustments to establish a more conducive framework for their sustainable growth.

Keywords: Association, sports company, anonymous company, accounting and fiscal treatment, shortcomings of the accounting plan

Classification JEL : L83 ; K22 ; H25 ; M41 ; L22 ; Z28

Paper type: Theoretical Research

Climate Risks and Financial Markets: A Narrative Literature Review

2025-03-07T23:20:45+00:00

This paper explores the critical intersection between climate change and financial systems, examining how climate risks are increasingly becoming central to financial market stability through a narrative review of existing literature. As climate hazards continue to cause widespread disruptions – such as droughts, floods, and global temperature irregularities – the role of financial markets and institutions in addressing these challenges has come under scrutiny. This literature review seeks to shed light on how climate risks are classified, identify the key drivers of these risks, and evaluate potential policy frameworks that can mitigate these risks. By synthesizing findings from existing research, this review aims to highlight the urgency of integrating climate considerations into financial decision-making processes. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable finance by offering insights that inform the design of resilient financial strategies to address climate-related challenges.

Keywords: Financial Markets, Sustainable Finance, Climate Risks, Physical Risks, Transition Risks.

JEL Classification: G10, G56

Paper Type: Theoretical Research

The effects of sectoral collective bargaining on wages in Senegalese firms

2025-03-07T23:23:59+00:00

The general objective of this article is to analyze the effects of collective bargaining on wages in Senegalese firms. To do so, we use dynamic panel data from 17 industries over the period 2012-2016. The wage bargaining model deduced from Layard et al.'s (1991) Wage Setting - Price Setting model was estimated using the generalized method of moments (GMM). The results of the model's estimation show that collective bargaining is a source of wage growth for companies in Senegal. These results imply decentralized collective bargaining, i.e. at company level. In other words, the decentralization of collective bargaining makes it possible to take into account the specific characteristics of the company as well as better working conditions for employees.

In terms of research prospects, the effects of wage drift, i.e. the gap between actual and contractual wages, on firm performance and youth employment would be a major contribution to economic research.

Keywords: Collective bargaining, wage, Wage negotiation model, GMM method, Senegal.

JEL Classification: J51

Paper type: Applied Research

Implementing CSR through sport events for Moroccan companies: The impact of organizational identification on the wider public trust and purchase intention

2025-03-07T23:39:35+00:00

The aim of the present study is to examine the impact of the organizational identification construct as an indirect indicator of the tangible and intangible benefits that a company can achieve through the implementation of a CSR strategy based on the organization or sponsorship of sporting events, such as building trust and stimulating purchase intention among the wider public. A quantitative study was carried out using a questionnaire designed on the basis of existing measurement scales in the literature, and completed by 125 respondents targeted according to their interest in sport and sporting events. As expected, respondents showed a notable degree of organizational identification with companies that organize or sponsor sporting events as part of CSR, and the results projected and confirmed that the concept of organizational identification has a positive impact on the wider public's purchase intention and trust, but the mediating role that the latter can play between organizational identification and the wider public's purchase intention has not been proven.

Overall, Moroccan companies should deploy CSR strategies through the organization or sponsorship of sporting events, enabling them to increase their financial assets (purchase intention) and build trust, taking into account the level of organizational identification of the target audience as a measurable index to predict the effectiveness and appropriateness of a CSR campaign.

Keywords: CSR; sport events; organizational identification; wider public; trust; Purchase intention

JEL Classification: M14; L21

Paper Type: Empirical Research

Impact of the National Human Development Initiative (NHDI) on urban social exclusion in Morocco: An econometric study

2025-03-07T23:42:47+00:00

Over the past 20 years, the fight against poverty and social exclusion has become a priority in Morocco. In response to persistent inequalities and insufficient public policies in this area, the Kingdom launched the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) in 2005, whose primary goal is to combat poverty in all its forms and reduce social exclusion across the national territory. Implemented through various programs focused on improving basic infrastructures and developing human capital, the initiative raises several questions regarding its effectiveness.

In this study, our objective is to analyze the impact of the program aimed at combating social exclusion in urban areas (and, by extension, reducing multidimensional poverty) using the logistic regression method. To guide our analysis, we formulate the following hypotheses: The INDH significantly reduces the rate of multidimensional poverty in beneficiary communes; The socio-economic characteristics of communes (notably the schooling rate and the illiteracy rate) moderate the impact of the INDH on the improvement of living conditions, and, Access to basic infrastructures (water, electricity, communication networks) influences the probability of enrollment in the program and, consequently, the effectiveness of the initiative in combating social exclusion.

The results obtained confirm the positive and significant effect of the INDH on reducing multidimensional poverty, particularly through improved access to education and essential infrastructures. These findings underscore the importance of sustained governmental commitment and an integrated strategy to ensure a lasting reduction in inequalities and an overall improvement in citizens' well-being.

Keywords : INDH, Multidimensionnel Poverty, Social Exclusion, Human Development, Logistic Regression.

JEL Classification: O15

Paper type: Empirical research

The performance of sports associations in Morocco: a review of the literature

2025-03-07T23:45:43+00:00

Performance has become increasingly important for sports associations, as they aim to operate like commercial entities that oversee the achievement of their objectives and the satisfaction of their stakeholders. This systematic literature review aims to identify, describe, and synthesize how sports performance has been studied in scientific articles. Specifically, it involves an analysis of the evaluation and improvement of the performance of sports associations. To achieve this, four academic search engines were used, identifying a total of 75 articles. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 articles were selected for the final analysis. These articles were examined based on journal characteristics, implemented models, and employed methodologies. Additionally, sports disciplines and sports performance metrics were categorized to describe their implications. Sports performance is considered a polysemic term and is mainly sensitive to the sports discipline, requiring consensus for its operationalization and for advancing comparison and replication of studies.

Keywords: Performance. Sports association. Evaluation.

JEL Classification: D71

Paper type: Theoretical Research

Informal Institutions and Female Labor Participation in Morocco

2025-03-07T23:48:42+00:00

The aims of this study are an understanding of the effect of informal institutions on Female Labor Force Participation in Morocco. In others words, the study focuses on how informal institutions as a range of informal constraints (cultural values, social norms, customs, etc.) influence the Moroccans’ perceptions of Female Labor participation. After examining the existing literature review, we demonstrated by mobilizing a narrative approach that, despite the formal provisions putted in place to improve the presence of Moroccan women in the public sphere, particularly in the labor market, informal institutions are still predominant and influence perceptions regarding women's work.

Keywords: Informal Institutions, Female Labor Force Participation, Morocco.

Classification JEL: B15, D02, O17

Paper type: Theoretical Research

The impact of the use of digital platforms on citizen participation in the smart city: Proposal for a conceptual model

2025-03-09T17:17:38+00:00

In 2024, Morocco launched its ‘Maroc Digital 2030’ strategy aimed at transforming the country into a digital leader in Africa. This strategy aims to improve the accessibility and efficiency of public services by digitising them. This includes creating a unified digital portal to centralise access to government services, simplifying administrative procedures and improving the user experience. The rapid development of digital technologies has profoundly changed the behaviour of all stakeholders involved in urban management. E-participation is vital to foster economic and social development. The aim of this research is to explain the factors influencing online citizen participation and to propose a conceptual model integrating these variables. More specifically, this work examines the impact of expected effort in using the technology, perceived usefulness, attachment to the territory and perceived trust on the intention to use participatory platforms. In addition, the research introduces gender and sex as moderating variables to analyse how the relationships between these factors vary according to individual characteristics. Understanding the factors that influence the uptake of e-participation is essential for the strategy, planning, design and dissemination of e-participation initiatives that will ultimately motivate citizens to use them. This article also explores the technological and individual factors that influence citizens’ decision to participate online. Based on the UTAUT (United Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) theoretical model. The research methodology of this article is based on an in-depth analysis of the literature review, we identified the relevant variables and formulated the hypotheses to be tested within the framework of the conceptual model. The expected results aim to enrich the literature on e-participation in order to implement a participatory approach adapted to the specific expectations of citizens.

Keywords: E-participation, Trust, Smart city, UTAUT.

JEL Classification: M30, M37, L86.

Paper type: Theoretical Research.

The determinants of the financing decision for agricultural farms by banks and microfinance institutions

2025-03-18T01:39:16+00:00

This study aims to identify the determining factors in the decision-making process of financial institutions (FIs) regarding the granting or refusal of agricultural credit in Benin. A quantitative study was conducted between April 2021 and May 2022 to collect data from 52 representatives of FIs, such as agencies or branches of decentralized financial systems, located in the municipalities of Banikoara, Savalou, and Klouékanmè.

The results show that 65% of the FIs granting agricultural credits are located in villages, hence close to agricultural operations. In contrast, 21% are located in districts, and 12.5% are situated in municipalities. The proximity of FIs to agricultural operations is a determining factor in their decision to grant agricultural credit.

However, only 25% of the FIs granting agricultural credits have significant experience in agricultural financing. Additionally, more than half of the FIs (approximately 68.75%) grant agricultural credits to applicants who also engage in non-agricultural income-generating activities. The analysis of risks related to agricultural production, particularly climate risks and crop pests, also plays a crucial role in the decision-making process of FIs. Indeed, the majority of them (93.75%) assess the likelihood of these risks occurring before granting agricultural credit. Approximately 43% of the FIs granting agricultural credits prioritize material guarantees.

In light of these results, it is recommended that FIs adopt an integrated analysis process, supported by advanced digital tools and diversified expertise. This would not only improve risk management but also optimize the profitability of agricultural credits, thereby facilitating greater involvement of FIs in financing the agricultural sector.

Keywords: Bank, microfinance, credit, agriculture, risk.

JEL Classification : G21

Paper type: Empirical research

Explanatory factors of the adoption of participatory banks by Moroccan clients: A qualitative study

2025-03-18T02:12:55+00:00

In an evolving economic context, participative banks are emerging as an ethical alternative to conventional banking services in Morocco. This study aims to explore the factors influencing the intention to adopt these institutions and examines the key determinants shaping this decision among Moroccan consumers. To achieve this, it integrates Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior and Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations model. Methodologically, a mixed-methods approach is employed, combining an extensive literature review with a qualitative study involving 12 potential Moroccan clients through semi-structured interviews. The findings highlight the significance of subjective social norms, perceived relative advantage, the complexity of Islamic financial products, and their cultural compatibility as key determinants of adoption intention. This research enhances understanding of the psychosocial and cultural factors influencing participative bank adoption in Morocco, offering strategic implications for the development of these institutions in the country.

Keywords: Participatory banking, Explanatory factors, Moroccan clients, Adoption, Lexical analysis.

JEL classification : M30

Article type : Qualitative research

The Impact of Management Control on Organizational Intelligence: An Empirical Study in the Moroccan Context

2025-03-18T02:36:12+00:00

In a constantly changing business world, companies must be smart, adaptable and innovative to succeed in the long term. This study explores the impact of management control systems on organizational intelligence, focusing on Moroccan companies. The objective is to understand how these systems enable organizations to become more efficient and resilient.

A quantitative approach was used, with data collected through surveys of Moroccan companies. These data were analyzed using advanced statistical methods (PLS-SEM). Management control was divided into three categories: forecasting tools (such as budgets), monitoring tools (such as balanced scorecards) and cost analysis tools (such as the ABC method). Organizational intelligence was assessed through criteria such as environmental monitoring and knowledge management.

The results show a strong link between management control systems and organizational intelligence (β = 0.635). Forecasting and monitoring tools are particularly effective in helping companies gather information and make better decisions. However, cost analysis tools were less used, suggesting that there is room for improvement in this area. Although organizational intelligence scored well overall, aspects such as protecting intangible assets and influencing the external environment still need to be improved.

This study has a few limitations. The sample was limited to enterprises in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco, so the findings might not apply everywhere. Also, the lower average variance extracted (AVE = 0.370) for management control suggests we need better ways to measure this variable. Future research could expand to other regions and sectors and look at how new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and big data can improve management control and organizational intelligence.

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of management control systems in strengthening organizational intelligence. By optimizing forecasting and monitoring tools, improving the use of cost analyses, and strengthening external influence strategies, Moroccan companies can better adapt to market challenges and ensure sustainable growth.

Keywords: management control, organizational intelligence, quantitative approach

JEL Classification: M100

Paper type: Empirical research

Digital transformation in Moroccan higher education: the driving role of the Pedagogical Innovation Center at Mohammed V University in Rabat

2025-03-18T02:57:44+00:00

This article explores the digital transformation of higher education in Morocco, with a particular focus on Mohammed V University in Rabat (UM5). In the face of rapid technological and pedagogical advancements, teachers must adapt to the increasing integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence. This transition presents several challenges, including the adoption of new technologies, continuous training, and institutional support. The central question is as follows: How do technological and pedagogical changes influence teaching practices at UM5, and what role does the Center for Pedagogical Innovation (CIP) play in supporting educators through this digital transition? To address this question, the study analyzes the impact of these transformations on teaching and examines the strategies implemented by the CIP to promote the integration of techno-pedagogical innovations. The adopted methodology is based on an in-depth analysis of current teaching practices and CIP initiatives. The objective is to identify key improvement levers to optimize teacher support, enhance the use of digital technologies, and improve teaching quality. By shedding light on the challenges of digitalization in Moroccan higher education, this research contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics at play.

Keywords: Digital transformation; Mohammed V University (UM5) ; Center for Pedagogical Innovation (CIP) ; Pedagogical innovation

JEL Classification :123

Paper type: Empirical research

Failure of very small businesses: a study of the causes of failure

2025-03-18T03:23:13+00:00

Failure represents an economic phenomenon feared by all entrepreneurs, particularly very small enterprises that fail to meet their obligations after a series of difficulties (Charreaux, 1996). Statistics show that VSBs have the highest failure rate, with more than 98.9% of failures in 2020 (Inforisk, 2020).

This article questions the main causes of TPE failure in Morocco. To identify these causes, a questionnaire was sent to more than 2000 experts and specialists, with 386 responses received. The comprehensive data collection process ensured a diverse range of insights from various regions and sectors. Data analysis, carried out with SPSS and R, reveals two main categories of causes: those related to the start of the activity and those appearing during the activity. This methodological approach allowed for a detailed examination of the factors contributing to business failure at different stages of the business lifecycle.

The results of this study highlight that the main causes of the deterioration of TPE activity can be grouped into two main categories. The first includes factors that manifest themselves from the launch of the activity, such as insufficient equity, competition, and sector choice. These initial challenges can set a precarious foundation for the business. The second category includes causes that emerge as the activity progresses, notably insufficient financing, payment delays, and low profitability. These ongoing issues can erode the business’s stability and sustainability over time, making it difficult for TPEs to thrive in a competitive market.

Keywords : Micro-enterprises; failure; causes; start-up phase; operational phase.

JEL Classification : L25, L26, G33, D22.

Paper type : Empirical research.

The impact of macroeconomic conditions on credit risk in the Moroccan banking system: empirical evidence from the ARDL model and the Toda-Yamamoto test

2025-03-19T03:16:06+00:00

This study investigates the impact of macroeconomic conditions on credit risk in the Moroccan banking sector, covering the period from the first quarter of 2009 to the first quarter of 2020. The research employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method to effectively assess both the short-term and long-term effects of various explanatory variables on the dependent variable. In addition, the Toda-Yamamoto causality test is utilized to identify which key macroeconomic variables drive credit risk.

The ARDL findings indicate that, in the short term, real GDP, inflation, and the exchange rate have a statistically significant negative impact on the rate of non-performing loans. This result aligns with theoretical expectations. In the long term, however, the unemployment rate shows a positive and statistically significant effect on the credit risk indicator, particularly the non-performing loan rate. Furthermore, a decline in the value of a currency appears to negatively affect the credit risk proxy. The results from the Toda-Yamamoto test reveal that interest rates, the unemployment rate, and currency exchange rates significantly influence the ratio of non-performing loans. These findings corroborate the assertion that banking and financial upheavals are manifestations of economic instability.

keywords: Credit risk, non-performing loans, Macroeconomic déterminants, Morocco.

JEL Classification: E01, G21, C22.

Paper type: Recherche empirique