Commerce
Articles tagged with Commerce
Curtin Ignition 2026 to power Australia’s next generation of entrepreneurs
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.
Less food waste: Supermarkets can save money by giving surplus food away
A new study from the University of Copenhagen shows that Danish retailers can generate a net financial gain of €0.3-€0.8 per kilo by selling surplus food at discounted prices. Donating food to organizations that redistribute it to vulnerable people is often cheaper than disposal, with savings of €0.10-€0.20 per kilo.
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.
U of A research finds improved weather forecasts could reduce heat deaths as climate warms
Researchers found that more accurate weather forecasts can significantly reduce heat-related deaths. The study suggests that technological advancements in forecasting can offset projected increases in heat-related fatalities due to climate change. In fact, the economic value of saving lives through improved forecasting is substantial a...
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.
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.
Manufacturer-sponsored coupon use and brand-name drug costs among patients with insurance
Coupon programs shifted towards higher-cost drugs, offering larger incentives to offset increasing patient cost-sharing requirements. Manufacturer-sponsored coupons saw a significant decline between 2017 and 2024, while per-claim coupon amounts rose accordingly.
“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.
Drug-related homicides increased in Mexico after NAFTA
A study by University of Cologne researchers found a significant increase in drug-related homicides along strategic trafficking routes after NAFTA came into force in 1994. The homicide rate among males aged 15-39 increased by 2.1 cases per 100,000 in these regions.
“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.
Smarter shelf strategy can boost retail profits and cut food waste by more than 20%, new study finds
A new study in Management Science found that small operational decisions can increase profits while reducing spoilage. By optimizing product display and discounting strategies, retailers can achieve a rare win-win, benefiting both profitability and sustainability.
More banks mean higher costs for borrowers
Research from the University of Texas at Austin reveals that increased bank competition can result in higher interest rates for borrowers. With more banks competing for loans, each additional bank is associated with a 7 basis point increase in interest rates. This is due to the 'winner's curse' effect, where lenders become risk-averse ...
IPO pay gap hiding in plain sight: Study reveals hidden cost of ‘cheap stock’
A new study from the University of Notre Dame examines the prevalence, determinants and consequences of cheap stock options. The research found that firms granting more options, having larger public offerings and venture capital backing tend to have greater gaps between IPO prices and exercise prices.
'Swiftynomics' explores how women power, redefine economy
The book sheds light on the often-ignored contributions of women in economics, highlighting their role as economic agents throughout history. Heggeness shares robust data and anecdotes about women who have thrived economically, from Taylor Swift to unsung heroes like Francis Perkins.
Rushing a major strategy announcement can be a mistake for new CEOs
A new study from the University of Notre Dame suggests that new CEOs should balance swift strategic action with caution to avoid analyst scrutiny. Analysts generally prefer a moderate pace, with longer delays seen as a risk, especially in turbulent situations.
Leading Danish universities join forces to boost innovation capacity
A partnership between University of Copenhagen and Danish Technical University aims to improve Europe's resilience and competitiveness by boosting innovation. The initiative seeks to develop the innovation ecosystem, drive urban development, and attract talent, companies, and investors.
Multifaceted effects of inward foreign direct investment on new venture creation
A recent study by researchers from Waseda University and Zhejiang University found that inward foreign direct investment has distinct nonlinear, spillover, and contingent effects on new venture creation. The study analyzed China's enterprise credit information data between 2013 and 2023 and demonstrated robust support for its hypotheses.
History offers warning on dollar and deficits
A new study warns that the U.S. government's fiscal capacity depends on the dominance of the U.S. dollar, and potential losses for bondholders could be significant if another currency replaces it. Historically, countries with a strong currency have experienced economic downturns when their dominance wanes.
Cross-border M&A activity predicts changes in economic growth, foreign exchange returns
Researchers found a predictive relationship between cross-border deal activity and future economic growth, with high outflows predicting domestic weakness and inflows predicting stronger conditions. The study analyzed nearly 25 years of data on cross-border deals involving over 40 countries.
Danish chemist's invention could make counterfeiting a thing of the past
A new digital and legally binding fingerprint developed at the University of Copenhagen makes products impossible to counterfeit. Royal Copenhagen is among the first brands in the world to use this solution, resulting in immediate transparency across their distribution chain.
Fewer layovers, better-connected airports, more firm growth
A new study by MIT researchers reveals that cities with strong airline connections are more likely to attract multinational firms, particularly in knowledge industries. The study analyzed 7.5 million firms in 800 cities and found that direct flights lead to a 20% increase in subsidiaries, compared to cities with only one-stop connections.
The suspension of the foreign corrupt practices act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases
The suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases. Companies that had been subject to investigations or sanctions under the FCPA collectively gained around $39 billion, with individual companies recording increases in market capitalization of billions of dollars.
The individual resilience of owners and the entrepreneurial orientation of retail businesses drive their organisational resilience
Research highlights the importance of owner individual resilience and entrepreneurial orientation in driving organisational resilience in small independent retailers. The study reveals that these factors enhance innovation and business performance, leading to improved adaptability and responsiveness to market changes.
ECU study shows AI strengthens agility and engagement
A new study by Edith Cowan University found that AI technologies boost marketing agility, leading to stronger stakeholder engagement. The research also highlights the importance of adapting to AI adoption to achieve sustained competitive advantage.
Night workers face inequalities in pay, health, safety and dignity
A major new study by UCL researchers reveals the challenges faced by London’s 1.3 million night workers, including pay inequality, health problems, transport difficulties, safety concerns, and a lack of workplace dignity. The study provides personal stories and policy recommendations to inform UK employment law reforms.
AI helps unlock secrets of Europe's prehistoric 'green gemstone' trade
Researchers used AI to analyze variscite samples, predicting their geological origin with 95% accuracy. The study reinterprets prehistoric trade routes, revealing new information about the spread of this highly valued mineral throughout Western Europe.
For platforms using gig workers, bonuses can be a double-edged sword
Research finds that fixed bonuses are more effective in abundant labor markets, while contingent bonuses are better suited for tight labor markets. However, both strategies have downsides, including reduced worker pay and operational inefficiency. This study sheds light on the complexities of bonus competition in the gig economy.
Experts find £90K “sweet spot” for crowdfunding success
A new study by University of East Anglia researchers identified key factors contributing to successful crowdfunding campaigns on Seedrs. Setting a £90K target, having around 19 team members, and using specific phrases in campaign pitches all helped attract investors.
Dangers of direct selling and network marketing are rarely mentioned in research
Researchers from Radboud University identified eight legal risks associated with MLMs, including false income promises and pyramid scheme-like structures. Studies funded by the MLM industry often downplay these risks, creating a false impression that MLMs are safe business models.
Grocery store records reveal London food deserts
Researchers used Tesco Grocery 1.0 dataset to identify large clusters of food deserts in East and West London, where residents have limited access to affordable nutritious food. The study found correlations between sociodemographic factors and nutrient-deficient purchases in areas with higher income and car ownership.
A food tax shift could save lives – without a price hike in the average shopping basket
A food tax shift could reduce premature deaths and disease by 700 annually and 700,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in Sweden. The study shows that selective taxes on unhealthy foods can lead to healthier diets without increasing the average price of groceries.
Why it’s not just about money: Who goes to the ballet, opera and symphony
A new study from UC San Diego's Rady School of Management found that education and social connections play a more significant role in participating in highbrow culture than income. The research used large-scale survey data to compare the UK and US, finding cultural capital dominated in the UK while social capital led in the US.
Households’ hunt for better savings rates can deepen recessions, finds new study
When economies falter, households become more vigilant in searching for high-interest savings accounts, which can exacerbate recessions. This collective behavior amplifies economic fluctuations by 14%, pulling more money out of the economy when it's already struggling.
Generative art enhances virtual shopping experience
A study by Cornell University researcher So-Yeon Yoon found that generative art can positively impact consumer behavior in virtual stores, with greater effects on mass-market shoppers. The research suggests that dynamic generative art may be more effective than static art in enhancing perceptions of exclusivity and aesthetic pleasure.
Happiness is not found in fast fashion – reducing consumption improves body image and well-being
A new study from the University of Vaasa finds that reducing clothing consumption improves body image and overall well-being. By extending the lifespan of clothes, individuals can reduce social comparison and increase self-esteem.
Shedding light on the impact of the Bank of Japan’s exchange-traded fund purchase program
A recent study by Waseda University researchers reveals that the Bank of Japan's large-scale ETF purchases have a significant impact on both the equity market and securities lending market, making short selling easier. This suggests that the stock market functions efficiently to some extent, mitigating distortions in stock prices.
Energy flexibility is reshaping Finland’s electricity market
A new study from the University of Vaasa examines how Finnish households are becoming more flexible with their energy consumption, driven by digitalisation and financial incentives. The research finds that material and monetary benefits are the most effective motivators for adopting flexible energy habits.
Could direct-to-consumer drug pricing compete with prescription insurance?
A new study shows that direct-to-consumer pharmacy pricing can offer lower total costs (431% lower) compared to commercial pharmacies for insured patients. Out-of-pocket neurologic drug costs are 75% higher, but most medications cost less than $635 per year.
Cannabis use among individuals with psychosis after state-level commercial cannabis legalization
Individuals with psychosis reported a large increase in current cannabis use following legalization, exceeding previous estimates for the general population. This finding highlights the need for policymakers to consider the potential health impacts of cannabis use on individuals with psychosis.
Once dominant, US agricultural exports falter amid trade disputes and rising competition
The US has traditionally been an agricultural powerhouse but global dynamics are changing due to political and economic factors. Row crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton are experiencing stagnant or declining exports, with the trade deficit projected to worsen in coming years.
When Washington tried to starve industries of loans—and failed
A study found that Operation Choke Point, launched in 2013, failed to restrict credit for controversial industries. Targeted banks reduced lending to small businesses, but large companies continued to secure credit and even increased their borrowing. Firms responded by switching to non-targeted banks, rendering the operation ineffective.
Plain packaging may help tackle teen vaping
A new study found that plain packaging of vape pods reduces young people's interest in trying them, but does not affect adults' interest. Standardised packaging also failed to deter adults from perceiving vapes as harmful compared to cigarettes.
Looking to the future together: 20 years of the European Network on Regional Labour Market Monitoring
The European Network on Regional Labour Market Monitoring explores foresight methods to improve forecasting accuracy, given the speed of change in regional labour markets. The network's annual conference brings together international researchers, consultants, and practitioners to exchange insights and share knowledge.
Emotions expressed in real-time barrage comments relate to purchasing intentions and imitative behavior
Researchers analyzed over 50,000 barrage comments from a promotional video on Chinese platform Bilibili, finding a clear link between positive emotional comments and purchasing intent. The study also observed real-time emotional contagion and nuanced dynamics in viewer behavior.
Studies find nonprofits' use of flexible labor negatively affects operational outcomes, lacks long-term financial benefit, study finds
New research from the University of Kansas found that nonprofits' increasing reliance on flexible labor leads to negative operational outcomes, such as reduced attendance at events. While short-term financial benefits may be achieved, there is no long-term fiscal improvement for these organizations.
Political agreement paves the way for a new Danish epicenter for innovation with international ambitions
A new vision plan for Innovation District Copenhagen outlines a comprehensive strategy to strengthen cooperation between businesses, educational institutions, and public actors. The district is set to become Denmark's new beacon for Life Science, with the goal of creating thousands of new jobs and attracting investments of billions.
MSU study unpacks what ‘Made in USA’ claims really mean to consumers
A new MSU study explores the perceptions of consumers regarding 'Made in USA' labels, finding that confusion exists and reality often exceeds or falls short of expectations. Researchers analyzed survey data from 131 adult respondents to better understand consumer attitudes towards domestic production and labeling.
Personalized pricing can backfire on companies, says study
A new study found that personalized pricing practices can lead to lower profits for companies and reduced consumer spending. Researchers suggest workarounds, such as corporate commitment or price caps, to avoid this pitfall.
Ateneo futurists envision AI-powered food stalls, sari-sari stores
The Ateneo de Manila University's Business Insights Laboratory explores how AI can turn handwritten sales logs into manageable digital data. The system uses OCR and LLM technology to recognize products, match prices, and tabulate sales summaries, helping businesses quickly identify bestsellers or slow-moving stock.
No credit history? You might have another way to prove creditworthiness
Researchers found that retail transaction data can significantly improve credit access for consumers without a formal credit history, increasing approval rates from 16% to 48%. This alternative approach breaks the classic catch-22 in lending by using everyday shopping habits to build credit scores.
Hotel revenues are reaching a new high in Colorado
A study by Florian Zach found that Colorado hotels increased average monthly revenue by 25% between 2014 and 2019, primarily due to higher room bookings and daily rates. Hotels closer to dispensaries, newer and more upscale, and in high-demand areas saw the greatest benefits from dispensary legalization.
US vacation renters waste $2 billion worth of food annually
A new study estimates US vacation renters waste $2.3 billion worth of food each year due to grocery and leftovers going uneaten. The average nightly rental fee comes with a 5.1% surcharge for wasted food, equivalent to an additional lodging tax.
MSU study unpacks how 2025 tariffs shocked global supply chain
A new study from Michigan State University explores the economic shock of the largest series of U.S. tariff hikes since 1930, reshaping global supply chains. The framework helps researchers and policymakers understand the chaos and make sense of future disruptions.
Ingroup bias leads to troubled waters for regulatory enforcement, shows study of private shipping inspectors
A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that ingroup bias led to shorter inspections for domestic vessels and increased scrutiny after a catastrophic accident. However, additional training can counteract this bias, suggesting that human capital is crucial in enforcing standards.
Succeeding in the workplace: is hard work and talent enough for minority groups?
A recent study by University of Houston researcher Melika Shirmohammadi examines career success disparities among minority and non-minority groups. The framework of 'complex visibility' reveals how minority groups are seen or perceived, often feeling hyper-visible yet invisible in certain contexts.
‘Returnless returns’ boost brands among consumers
A new study from the University of Notre Dame finds that returnless returns can increase brand support by up to 25%. The strategy involves allowing customers to keep returned items and receive a refund, rather than processing returns. This approach fosters goodwill and customer loyalty.
Car dealers don’t rip off subprime borrowers
A study by the University of Texas at Austin reveals that car dealers provide implicit subsidies to subprime borrowers. The dealers incur a loss of an average of $301 when arranging loans for these buyers.