Business Strategy and Development最新文献

The growing demand for sustainable solutions has intensified interest in approaches that enable the transition from linear to circular economic models. In this context, this study proposes the development of a conceptual framework that integrates blockchain technology to support the implementation of circular practices. The circular economy aims to reduce waste and maximize the retention of resource value throughout its life cycle. However, its operationalization faces challenges such as a lack of traceability, limited trust among supply chain actors, and insufficient transparency in shared information. Blockchain technology, which enables secure, decentralized, and immutable recording and sharing of data, is a promising alternative to overcome these barriers. Through a systematic literature review, the objective is to propose a conceptual framework that explains how blockchain functionalities can support the execution of circular practices across different stages of the supply chain. The framework is grounded in three theoretical lenses: The Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Institutional Theory, and Transaction Cost and Network Effect Theory. It is structured around three main constructs: blockchain (with key functionalities such as traceability, smart contracts, and tokenization), circular economy practices (based on the hierarchy of the 10rs), and a circular supply chain (focusing on integration, reverse logistics, and sustainability certification). The methodology involved a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines, resulting in the analysis of 67 peer-reviewed articles. The findings provide theoretical and practical insights into how blockchain can enable traceability, transparency, automation, and cost reduction in circular supply chains, thereby accelerating the adoption of sustainable and efficient business models.

This paper analyzes the impact of alternative financing (i.e., green finance, remittances and foreign aid) on sustainable development in Africa. It is based on a panel of 47 African countries from 1990 to 2021. Using the Sustainable Development Index (SDI) developed by Hickel, the study evaluates the influence of three primary sources of alternative financing: migrant remittances, green finance (as measured by investments in renewable energy), and official development assistance (ODA). The methodology is based on Tobit and instrumental variables (IV)-two-stage least squares (2SLS) models, adapted for endogeneity resolution. The results show that remittances positively and significantly impact sustainable development, especially in middle-income countries. However, green finance and ODA negatively impact sustainable development overall. Analysis by income group shows that green finance benefits low-income countries more and that ODA is more effective in high-income countries. Additionally, the study emphasizes the catalytic role of financial innovations, particularly mobile money, in amplifying the effects of alternative financing on the SDI. These results underscore the importance of strengthening institutional frameworks, governing financial resources more effectively, and implementing appropriate public policies. Furthermore, it is relevant to provide easier access to digital services and encourage the use of innovative methods to mobilize diaspora resources. Other policy implications are discussed.

This paper aims to investigate the effect of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) variables on business financial performance and their influence on operational and investment decisions. The financial performance of Latin American corporations from 2019 to 2022 was quantitatively analyzed using secondary data from Refinitiv. The analysis conducted through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) revealed a positive effect of environmental factors on profitability, while social factors notably have a negative effect on asset utilization. However, there was no observable impact of governance characteristics on financial performance. These findings suggest that while social issues may hinder operational efficiency, proactive and sustainable corporate practices aimed at addressing environmental challenges can enhance company profitability. Suggestions include adopting comprehensive ESG governance, implementing successful CSR initiatives, and making sustainable investments in environmental policies. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between ESG factors and financial performance, which seeks to promote both financial success and positive societal and environmental outcomes, necessitates further in-depth contextual study.

It is commonly assumed that inclusive business relies on collaboration to create commercial businesses that benefit low-income populations. Yet, the relationship between collaboration and inclusive business remains unclear. Through a systematic literature review, we assess the state of knowledge on how collaboration informs inclusive business. An interpretive synthesis based on abductive coding of 35 articles selected through systematic screening led to three inclusive business archetypes with unique interpretations of inclusive business and collaboration. The “Pragmatist” favors transactional collaboration to overcome market constraints in low-income markets, (faultily) assuming product access enhances consumer wellbeing. The “Connector” proposes an integrative collaboration to establish linkages between inclusive business and low-income populations and facilitate resource and knowledge exchange, raising tensions between capacity development and commercial viability. The “Transformer” prioritizes transformative collaboration to address the root causes of problems, advocating significant investments with uncertain returns. The archetypes provide a conceptual starting point to classify inclusive business. Each archetype presents unique challenges in the integration of commercial and development objectives, underscoring the need for further research on the viability of win–win discourses.

Jacob, N. R., and Ritika. 2025. “Exploring Firm Performance in Global Value Chains—A Sustainability-Oriented Study.” Business Strategy & Development 8, no. 3: 70210. https://doi.org/10.1002/bsd2.70210.

The surname of the second author has been removed as Dr Ritika does not use her surname in professional settings.

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