Business
Articles tagged with Business
OIST Innovation Accelerator opens applications for 2027–2028 cohort focused on bioconvergence and sustainability
Low-performing organisations more likely to look outside for knowledge, study shows
How bank shocks propagate through production networks
To create change, new leaders should read the room
Consumers willing to pay more for lobster harvested with ropeless technology, UMaine study finds
Book by University of Toronto professor named as one of Thinkers50 best new management books for 2026
George Newman's book, How Great Ideas Happen, explores the hidden steps behind breakthrough success and reveals that creativity is a method rather than magic. The book, published by Simon & Schuster, draws on cutting-edge research to show how successful innovators approach their work with intention and diligence.
New study suggests ‘freedom framing’ more effective than mandates for vaccine-hesitant Americans
The 10th HKU Quarterly Forum on Chinese Economy:
Board interpersonal diversity linked to lower tax avoidance
Research shows that diverse boards with members from various backgrounds bring new perspectives, strengthen oversight, and reduce aggressive tax avoidance. This leads to more questioning, debate, and closer scrutiny of management decisions, ultimately resulting in more responsible tax behavior.
Profit alone is a poor measure of success, study shows companies can look efficient while harming the planet
A new study from the University of Surrey shows that firms celebrated for strong financial performance may actually be inefficient when environmental impact is included. The research developed a new way to measure sustainable corporate efficiency, combining traditional financial metrics with environmental data.
Nonprofit hospitals spend billions on management consultants with no clear effect
A new study found that nonprofit hospitals spent at least $7.8 billion on management consulting services between 2010-2022, but saw no significant changes in finances, staffing, operations, or patient outcomes. The study suggests greater transparency and public accountability for how hospitals use tax-subsidized dollars.
Companies disclose more on cybersecurity – but markets remain indifferent
A study by the University of Vaasa and Aalto University finds that mandatory cybersecurity disclosure in the US has increased internal documentation and made cyber risks more visible to senior management, but not affected investor behavior. Companies produced new content describing their cybersecurity governance structures, suggesting ...
A Canadian Journey examines the life and lessons of L.R. “Red” Wilson
A new biography by Dimitry Anastakis explores the life and career of L.R. Red Wilson, a pioneering Canadian business leader who made significant contributions to higher education, business, and public service. The book showcases Mr. Wilson's remarkable journey, including his executive leadership positions and philanthropic efforts.
Purdue student entrepreneurs receive $50,000 from Purdue Innovates Incubator
Four teams of Purdue University student entrepreneurs won a combined $50,000 from the Purdue Innovates Incubator for their innovative solutions in healthcare and education. The winning teams included echoSURE Inc., VitaWave Tech Inc., CalcGPT, and Kova Group Inc.
Revolving doors weaken SEC oversight
New research from the University of Texas at Austin finds that regulators with ties to Big Four accounting firms are less likely to detect financial statement errors and ask for amendments. A cooling-off period might increase confidence in regulatory oversight, but its implementation could be challenging due to staff limitations.
Scrapped inheritance tax linked to stronger growth in private firms with heirs, Swedish study shows
Private firms with potential family successors in Sweden grew faster and invested more after the abolition of inheritance tax, which led to higher corporate taxes. The study suggests that rents from the tax abolition were shared with society through taxes and employee salaries.
98% of all recent environmental claims and commitments from the world’s largest meat and dairy companies can be categorized as “greenwashing”, or intentionally misleading
A recent study found that 98% of environmental claims made by the world's largest meat and dairy companies can be classified as greenwashing. The analysis of over 1,200 claims from 33 major companies revealed a lack of evidence supporting many promises.
Study finds high school journalism leading the way in financial literacy, even if business isn't part of curriculum
A study by the University of Kansas found that high school journalists learn business skills through practice and experiential learning, even if business concepts are not directly addressed. Student media advisers reported financial pressures and stressed the need for improved financial literacy education.
MIT faculty examine how to expand the US economy in new book, “Priority Technologies”
The book highlights the importance of sustaining innovation in sectors such as semiconductors, biotechnology, and critical minerals to drive economic growth and national security. By rebuilding domestic manufacturing and leveraging new technologies, the US can regain leadership in these areas and capture a $4 trillion market.
AI works best with humans – not instead of them
A new study reveals that AI's strength lies in teamwork with humans, processing data but relying on people for context and ethical decisions. The research emphasizes the importance of human oversight and responsibility in AI-driven decision-making.
AI measures business complexity
A new AI model helps measure business complexity by breaking it down into 29 categories, including debt, equity, and financial structures. The tool can identify areas of complexity that require closer analysis for investors and provide insights for standard setters and regulators to simplify reporting standards.
Binghamton University graduate programs draw national attention in new ranking
Binghamton University has seen significant improvements in its graduate school rankings, with nearly three dozen programs earning national recognition. The university's Systems Science and Industrial Engineering program has been named the #31 Industrial and Systems Engineering graduate program in the US.
Small, medium-sized independent U.S. firms adapted well to minimum wage hikes, as did workers
A new study found that small and medium-sized independent businesses in the US adapted successfully to minimum wage increases, particularly in terms of labor market margins. The study's findings suggest that these firms demonstrated remarkable adaptability in response to cost increases.
Reversible words can lower consumer disbelief in ads
A new study reveals that using reversible words in marketing messages can significantly impact how confident consumers feel about believing a claim. Researchers found that when words differ in their reversibility, it can trigger different mental processes when consumers evaluate marketing language.
AI pricing could mean everyone pays a different price
New research suggests that AI-powered price discrimination could lead to hidden, personalised pricing that consumers cannot see or understand, potentially reducing trust and affecting behavior. Regulators are now facing pressure to decide whether such practices cross the line under EU competition law.
Harassment in Japan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem
A study by the University of Tokyo found that nearly 500 startup founders experienced some form of harassment, including bullying and unreasonable demands. The researchers suggest structural solutions such as diverse professional networks and industry associations to address this issue.
In Alliances, Information Firewalls Can Backfire
A study from the University of Texas at Austin found that internal firewalls can reduce the quality of innovations and hinder a company's ability to build on its discoveries. However, companies with stronger bargaining power can minimize these restrictions by structuring alliances that don't overlap with competitors' knowledge bases.
University of Houston researcher uncovers the mathematical signature of fair competition
A mathematical model identifies universal patterns in competitive systems, revealing an optimal 'sweet spot' where excellence and opportunity coexist. The study found that high-performing systems strike a delicate balance between demand and opportunity.
New framework reveals how vulnerable small businesses are to supply chain shocks
A new framework was developed to enable SMEs to systematically assess their supply chain risks and take proactive steps to build resilience. The integrated approach combines expert knowledge with established methods, identifying 11 key hazards across the supply chain.
Can serendipity be harnessed? Reflecting on unplanned outcomes offers benefits
A study by Cornell University researchers found that prompting employees to reflect on unintended outcomes leads to more creative ideas during brainstorming. Reflecting on past 'happy accidents' helps individuals regain control, leading to higher-quality ideas.
The structure of online reviews shapes their helpfulness
A study of nearly 200,000 Amazon reviews reveals that the structure of online product reviews plays a crucial role in their helpfulness. The researchers identified nine possible structures of online reviews and found that different review structures are more or less helpful depending on how highly the reviewer has rated the product.
If you’re a perfectionist at work, your boss’ expectations may matter more than your own, research finds
A new study from University of Florida finds that employee perfectionism impact depends on alignment with supervisor's expectations and clarity in understanding. When employees' standards match supervisors', they experience less uncertainty, better performance, and higher job satisfaction.
Global musicians face the same 'streaming paradox' as US- and UK-based artists, study finds
A study of 1,200 musicians in five countries reveals the 'streaming paradox': while artists are more visible than ever, meaningful income remains elusive. Musicians face growing pressure to create engaging content and manage their online presence.
Reduce infrastructure costs of EV adoption by upgrading grid first, then adding V2G chargers
A study by researchers from the University of Michigan and international institutions recommends prioritizing grid upgrades targeting long-term demand expectations to minimize total costs. By upgrading the grid first, utilities can create a more efficient infrastructure that leverages Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) chargers more effectively.
Do TV ads work? Ask smart TVs
A new study reveals traditional TV ads deliver less than expected impact, with promotions, recency, programming, and habits playing a crucial role in ad effectiveness. The research uses smart TV data to measure causal impact on consumer purchases, providing insights for advertisers and improving TV networks' measurement capabilities.
Accelerator programs have more work to do when it comes to supporting women entrepreneurs, research finds
Research by Prof. Sarah Kaplan found that social innovation accelerators showed no financial improvement for women-led businesses compared to male-led ventures. However, in more egalitarian contexts, accelerators were effective in supporting women entrepreneurs. The study highlights the need for accelerators to address broader ecosyste...
Income rank predicts well-being worldwide, but social capital can buffer its effects
A study published in Nature Communications finds that social capital can significantly reduce the psychological impact of lower income rank, suggesting policies strengthening social connection may be as important as those raising incomes for bolstering wellbeing. The research uses data from over 90,000 people across 109 countries.
How our reactions shape what is perceived as ethical on social media
A new doctoral thesis explores how companies and users collaborate to establish norms and values on social media. Anna Granstedt's findings reveal that ethics on social media is a dynamic process influenced by company communication, user reactions, and platform algorithms.
Does a company’s political power affect its success in obtaining federal contracts?
A study found a positive relation between political power and the number of contracts awarded, size of contracts, and favorableness of terms. Companies strategically shift donations to more electable politicians when their influence declines.
SKKU professor Tae-Youn Park, “Does Pay Transparency Reduce Wage Inequality?” (HBR)
A study by SKKU professor Tae-Youn Park found that wider posted pay ranges are associated with a lower proportion of female applicants due to increased uncertainty. This can lead to persistent long-term wage gaps as female applicants have lower expectations for salary increases and request less in initial salaries.
Overconfident CEOs are less likely to delegate responsibility – particularly when it may help the most
A study found that overconfident CEOs are 10-15% less likely to delegate responsibilities, especially in complex transactions and when acquiring companies in unfamiliar industries. This suggests that executives who are overly confident may struggle with delegating tasks effectively.
Negative emotions at work aren’t always harmful—empathetic leaders make the difference
Research by David Lebel and colleagues found that only half of the relationships between negative emotions and workplace outcomes were harmful during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, many showed no effect or even positive effects, highlighting the importance of empathetic leadership in moderating these outcomes.
“Unleash the West of England to power up UK growth” - The Brunel Centre publishes Economic Audit
The West of England, a region with exceptional potential, is limited by structural constraints. Key findings include export strength, world-leading innovation clusters, and a strong but place-specific labour market.
Organic grain field day set for April 7 at Kibler Vegetable Research Station
The event aims to connect grain farmers with buyers from the region to discuss market opportunities for organic grain crops. Presenters will also showcase ongoing organic research in Arkansas.
Can merging hotels improve efficiency? Data-driven model uncovers major gains
A data-driven analytical framework reveals how hotel mergers can optimize resource use and improve efficiency, even among highly efficient properties. The study identifies "productive post-mergers," which can achieve substantial reductions in resource use, up to 90% in some cases.
Augmented reality job coaching boosts performance by 79% for people with disabilities
A new study found that augmented reality job coaching significantly improves job performance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The AR-based application delivered real-time guidance, enabling participants to complete complex tasks with minimal external support. This innovative approach has the potential t...
Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $500,000 grant from National Science Foundation
Wavelogix, a concrete sensor manufacturer, has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to refine and scale its Rebel concrete strength sensing system. The system enables faster, data-driven decisions through real-time concrete strength monitoring.
Online meetings come with pros and cons – managers should understand all of them
Video meetings serve as both informative and interactive tools in leadership, but also create challenges like flexibility, social connection, participation, and equality. Managers must find a balance between technology's benefits and limitations to support employee well-being and interaction.
Broad pay ranges in job postings linked to fewer female applicants
Research from Cornell University finds that women prefer jobs with narrower salary ranges and are less likely to negotiate for lower pay. The study suggests that pay transparency laws may inadvertently perpetuate gender gaps if not implemented carefully.
The hidden cost of ‘bullshit’ corporate speak
A new study by Cornell University researcher Shane Littrell finds that employees who are more susceptible to corporate BS have lower scores on analytic thinking, cognitive reflection, and fluid intelligence. This can lead to less effective workplace decision-making and lower performance.
When populist rhetoric is high, entrepreneurs are more likely to dodge taxes
A study found that high populist rhetoric leads to more entrepreneurs dodging taxes and government regulations by starting unregistered businesses. Cultural tightness also amplifies this effect, increasing the likelihood of informal venture entry.
Most workers embrace AI, but 84% worry about the risks, study says
A study by Dr Marigo Raftopoulos found that 71% of professionals think AI performs 'very' or 'extremely' well due to its ability to save time and improve processes, accuracy and efficiency. However, 84% are concerned about the risks associated with AI, including cyber security, job losses, and military uses.
“AI slop” hurts consumers and creators. But high-quality AI could help both.
A new study explores the market effects of unleashing generative AI on creative endeavors, finding that low-quality 'AI slop' harms consumers and professionals. High-quality AI, however, can enhance professional work while providing consumers with better content options.
Having a ‘growth mindset’ helps entrepreneurs adapt to setbacks
A new study by North Carolina State University reveals that entrepreneurs with a growth mindset are more resilient when faced with venture-related setbacks. They are also more optimistic about future success, less discouraged, and more likely to put in effort to find solutions.
Hairdressers could be a secret weapon in tackling climate change, new research finds
Research from the University of Bath's Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations reveals that hairdressers can prompt climate conversations and inspire change. Salon owners reported successful conversations with clients about sustainability, leading to changes in habits such as water and energy usage, and even dietary choices.
Digital targeting creeps out customers
Researchers find that personalized digital marketing can evoke a powerful emotional response, leading consumers to feel uncomfortable and less likely to make purchases. To mitigate this 'creepiness,' brands can focus on prevention by designing personalization practices that minimize ambiguity and avoid signals of intrusive surveillance.
Study finds that on-demand wage access boosts savings and financial engagement for low-wage workers
A recent study found that giving low-wage workers access to their earned wages before payday significantly increases saving behavior, financial monitoring, and long-term planning. The study also identified important environmental factors, such as region and minimum wage, that amplify the benefits of on-demand wage access.
New research offers businesses a playbook for surviving social media firestorms
A new study from Binghamton University School of Management provides a framework for organizations to anticipate, interpret, and respond to social media backlash. The toolkit identifies four phases of online social disapproval and offers guiding questions and analytical indicators to aid in early detection, response, and recovery.
Could British companies be sued in the UK for human rights abuses committed overseas?
A new study from the University of Surrey suggests that powerful companies risk legal responsibility for labor abuse, child labor, and environmental pollution linked to their global operations. Courts in the UK and abroad are treating corporate human rights responsibility as a legal duty rather than a voluntary promise.