Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2024-06-24"
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- Collaborative consumption and eWOM : the influence of electronic word of mouth on the valuation of online fashion rental servicesPublication . Lierheimer, Nina Marie; Colaço, VeraThis dissertation investigates the influence of information quality of electronic word of mouth (eWOM), more specifically online customer reviews on the valuation of fashion rental services, namely on eWOM appeal, the intention to rent clothes on a renting platform, and the willingness to pay. Additionally, the moderating effect of fashion involvement and the mediating influence of perceived trust in eWOM was examined on the aforementioned relationship. Results indicate that high eWOM information quality in online customer reviews leads to greater valuations of fashion rental services. Additionally, higher fashion involvement positively impacts eWOM appeal of online customer reviews and the intention to rent clothes from a fashion rental platform. Furthermore, individuals with higher fashion involvement are more likely to rent clothes with higher eWOM information quality reviews. Results slightly improved by adding the influence of the frequency of consuming online reviews to this analysis. Moreover, findings suggest that perceived eWOM trust indirectly influences the relationship between eWOM information quality and fashion rental service valuations, specifically eWOM appeal and rental intention. These findings provide relevant theoretical insights into the previously established link between eWOM and rental platforms, particularly by closing a research gap concerning fashion involvement and eWOM trust. Forthwith, brand managers are provided with recommendations for a successful implementation of fashion rental services, particularly regarding the design of review management strategies.
- Digitalization and cost of corporate debt : an analysis of the European landscape at a general, country, and industry levelPublication . Gargano, Pieralberto; Bonfim, DianaDigitalization has totally revolutionised our life over the last years. But to which extent has it impacted companies’ financials? This thesis tries to understand, at a European level, the ramifications of digitalization on the cost of corporate debt. It scrutinizes this impact from three distinct angles: a general viewpoint, a country-specific analysis, and an industry-based examination. The empirical analysis leverages data from firms listed in the STOXX600 index. The degree of digitalization within the European Union is gauged using the annually published Digital Intensity Level in Businesses Index by EUROSTAT. The study encompasses a comprehensive sample of 19,752 observations, spanning 15 countries and 55 industries over a decade from 2015 to 2024. A panel data regression model serves as the analytical framework for this investigation. The lack of statistical significance at conventional levels, and the consequent non reliability of the results failed to reject the null hypothesis for the three hypotheses tested. Despite these limitations, some relevant insights can be extracted from this work at a macro level: an augmentation in digitalization is directly correlated with an escalation in the cost of corporate debt. Subsequently, at a country and industry level, it has been noticed that the findings obtained differ, in both the cases, in terms of sign and magnitude, showing heterogeneity on the impact of digitalization. The complexity of the digitalization phenomenon and its multifaceted implications for corporate finance are highlighted by these findings. This work, therefore, tries to contribute to the research in this dynamic and consequential field.
- Disruption of content creation : the impact of generative AI on entertainmentPublication . Baldoni, Luca; Rajsingh, PeterThis thesis explores the transformative impact of Generative AI (GenAI) on the entertainment industry, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize content creation and its implications for creativity and business models. The literature review distinguishes AI, GenAI, and machine learning, tracing the historical development of GenAI and its disruptive effects, with current industry applications serving as examples. A qualitative research methodology was used, featuring semi-structured interviews with industry experts. The findings indicate that GenAI significantly enhances operational efficiency by automating routine tasks, allowing creative professionals to focus on higher-value activities. GenAI also democratizes content creation, lowering barriers to entry. However, challenges remain in maintaining the authenticity and trust of AI-generated content, requiring human oversight to ensure quality and emotional resonance. Analysis of the TAM model shows that GenAI is easy to use and has high perceived usefulness, leading to its acceptance in the entertainment industry. The study discusses future scenarios and managerial implications for integrating GenAI. It notes that GenAI in entertainment is not a disruptive innovation in the traditional sense, as leading companies are incorporating GenAI to enhance existing capabilities rather than being displaced by new entrants. Overall, the research presents GenAI as an important tool in the entertainment industry, driving operational efficiencies and creative possibilities, while underscoring the crucial role of human creativity in maximizing the potential of these technologies.
- Shaping the future : AI governance and its dynamic effect on India's AI competitivenessPublication . Chopra, Karneet; Rajsingh, PeterIndia's potential in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is significant, with a large skilled workforce and a growing AI industry. However, the lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework raises concerns about ethical AI development, data privacy, and potential misuse, impacting public trust and India's global competitiveness. This thesis employed a mixed-methods approach, combining a literature review of existing AI governance models with insights from semi-structured interviews with Indian AI experts and a public perception survey. The findings highlighted a strong desire for a robust, centralized regulatory framework that balances innovation with ethical considerations and data protection. Experts emphasized the need for increased investment in foundational AI research, collaborative policymaking involving government, industry, and academia, and a focus on mitigating potential biases and risks associated with AI deployment. This research challenges the assumption that stringent AI governance would hinder India's AI competitiveness, suggesting that a well-defined regulatory framework, tailored to India's unique socio-economic context, can foster public trust, attract investment, and position India as a leader in responsible AI development. The thesis concludes by offering recommendations for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to collaboratively shape a future where AI technologies contribute positively to India's growth and societal well-being.
- Liderança nos desportos de alta competição : o caso do ciclismo profissional de estrada em PortugalPublication . Avelar, Gonçalo Alexandre Machado; Seruya, José Manuel MenanoA presente dissertação foca-se na identificação de práticas de liderança e competências comunicacionais de líderes relevantes no âmbito do ciclismo profissional de estrada em Portugal. Numa fase inicial, procedeu-se à elaboração de uma base teórica nos campos da liderança nos desportos de alta competição – com enfoque no treinador enquanto líder, nos tipos de liderança e nas competências dos treinadores – bem como na comunicação e nas relações estabelecidas entre treinadores e atletas. Em termos metodológicos, a investigação desenvolvida é do tipo qualitativo com recurso à realização de seis entrevistas semiestruturadas ao Presidente da Federação Portuguesa de Ciclismo, ao Diretor da Volta a Portugal em Bicicleta, ao Diretor Geral e Desportivo da Efapel Cycling e a três dos seus ciclistas. O testemunho pessoal de cada um dos entrevistados anteriormente referidos revelou-se fundamental para dar resposta aos objetivos definidos, pelo que, na apresentação e discussão dos resultados, foi possível identificar práticas de liderança e competências comunicacionais destes líderes em matérias como inteligência emocional, autoconsciência, reação às adversidades, visão, definição de objetivos, escuta ativa e versatilidade para comunicar com diferentes públicos.
- Preferences of young German adults for naturally sweetened snacks : a comparison between corporate brands and influencer brandsPublication . Hensel, Annalena; Costa, AnaOver recent years, consumers' eating behaviors have shifted from main meals to more frequent snacking, raising concerns due to high-energy-density snacks rich in sugar, salt, and fat, potentially contributing to obesity. As concerns about processed foods grow, demand for healthier snacks with less processing and natural ingredients rises. This shift reflects a desire for transparency in dietary choices, evidenced by ingredient lists and health claims on packaging. This study aims to understand the impact of extrinsic and intrinsic attributes, namely type of sugar, cocoa content, presence of naturally sweetened claim, and price, on young German adults' preferences for dark chocolate. Further, it investigated whether these preferences change based on whether the product is from a corporate or influencer brand, a brand launched by a social media influencer. An online survey with 168 participants was conducted, incorporating an information treatment and a conjoint analysis task. Findings show that dark chocolate from corporate brands is preferred over influencer brands, likely due to higher familiarity, loyalty, and trust. Coconut sugar was strongly preferred over regular sugar, while the effect of a naturally sweetened claim was non-significant, indicating a preference for factual nutrition information over health claims. Consumer preferences did not differ significantly between the corporate and influencer brand treatment. The results underscore the importance of transparent and informative marketing strategies focusing on ingredients rather than health claims. Influencers launching their brands must build brand awareness, loyalty, and trust among young German adults by providing factual information about their products.
- Gamifying financial literacy : a marketing strategy for a mobile app using gamification to improve user engagementPublication . Divay, William; Xavier, RuteThe global financial crisis of 2008 highlighted the critical importance of financial literacy and effective personal financial management. Despite the growing need for financial education, a significant portion of the global population remains financially illiterate, which poses long-term risks to individual and societal economic stability. This thesis explores the potential of gamification as a strategy to enhance user engagement in a mobile application designed to improve financial literacy. By integrating game elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and personalized learning paths, the proposed app aims to make financial education interactive and engaging. This study is grounded in the Self-Determination Theory, which emphasizes the importance of competence, autonomy, and relatedness in motivating behavior. Through a combination of literature review, survey analysis, and empirical data collection, the research investigates the effectiveness of different gamification elements in enhancing user engagement. The findings reveal that elements focused on competition, social relationships, feedback, progression, and rewards significantly enhance user motivation and engagement. However, immersive elements such as customizable avatars, while enhancing user experience, do not have a significant standalone impact on engagement. This research provides valuable insights for developers and educators on the strategic implementation of gamification in financial literacy applications, highlighting its potential to foster a more financially informed and competent society.
- Applying mHealth for assessment of complex wounds: insights from a focus groupPublication . Marques, Raquel; Mira, Helena I. M. F.; Lopes, Marcos V. O.; Neves-Amado, João D.; Ramos, Paulo A. S.; Alves, Paulo J. P.Background. It is a reality of care praxis that it is difficult for healthcare professionals to assess and monitor the local status of wounds objectively and regularly. This study aims to identify the minimum data required to evaluate patients with complex wounds to be incorporated into mHealth. Methods. Descriptive qualitative study, based on thematic analysis, using the online focus group technique. An intentional sample was selected, and two separate sessions were held, attended by 6 experts and 7 nurses. The data were coded by two researchers, with a deductive method, using NVivo software. Results. 5 themes emerged which are described as follows: assessment of patients with complex wounds, distinctive criteria based on the type of wound, flowcharts for approaching patients with wounds, characteristics of a mobile application focused on wound care, and alerts to be included in a mobile health application dedicated to wound treatment. The theme characteristics of a mobile application for approaching the patient with wounds raised 4 subthemes: (1) image, (2) communication, (3) decision-making, and (4) safety. Conclusion. The use of wound assessment tools provides data capable of generating quality care outcome indicators. These serve as good practice guides, enhancing health gains, whether they are economic or quality-of-life improvements.
- Multinational tax avoidance associated with leverage, intangibility and profitability on non-US. dataPublication . Chen, Rong; Bonfim, DianaThis study investigates the tax avoidance behaviors of multinational corporations (MNCs) by analyzing the effective tax rates (ETRs) of global ultimate owners and their subsidiaries from 2000 to 2022. Using panel data from the Osiris database, this dissertation examines how various subsidiary-level financial metrics, weighted by the inverse of their domestic statutory tax rates, influence the parent firm's book ETR. Key independent variables include the number of subsidiaries in tax havens, intangibility, leverage, profitability, size, and statutory tax differences. The results showed significant negative correlations between the number of tax haven subsidiaries and book ETRs for parent firms. The presence of tax haven subsidiaries amplifies the impact of subsidiary aggregated leverage and size on tax avoidance. The findings underscore the importance of regulatory measures to curb tax avoidance and highlight the need for further research into the tax practices of MNCs in diverse jurisdictions.
- From paper and pulp industry leader to flexible packaging pioneer : the Navigator’s internalization strategy when entering the French marketPublication . Romanyshyn, Oksana; Xavier, RuteThe past decade has marked the shift within paper and pulp industry, with once leading sectors, like printing and writing paper experiencing a gradual elimination. Exogenous shocks and everchanging consumer needs have turned the industry upside down, driving out incumbents unable to adapt. Those who managed to maintain their position showcased the skills of reinvention and have diversified their offering into more promising contingent fields. Conditioned by highlighted circumstances, the Navigator company successfully expanded their portfolio to tap into the kraft packaging domain, the industry of high predicted growth and market opportunity. However, the entrance of the product to foreign markets is yet to be executed. In the light of the future investment, this dissertation aims to discover if France has the potential to commence the international success of gKraft, the Navigator’s kraft paper sub brand. Based on the comprehensive market analysis, competitor’s benchmarking and insights from end-consumers, France is positioned to be a promising location for further penetration, hovewer, some conditions ought to be satisfied. In order to occupy the competitive stance on the local market, the Navigator is expected to elevate the utility of its product in the eyes of clients by integrating technological advancements and comforting final consumers on the sustainability of the offering across its entire lifecycle.
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