Financial Constraints

This research attempts to investigate the effect of financial constraints and different levels of agency costs on the investment efficiency of companies in Iran. Following the design of the financial risk assessment indexes, the transaction information was collected from the Stock Exchange in the five-year period of 2011-2015. The statistical sample consists of 128 companies selected by sampling method based on Cochran formula in which totally obtained 640 year-firm data. Linear regression and correlation were used to investigate the hypotheses of the research. Also Eviews software was used to analyse the data and test the hypotheses. What is summarized in the overall conclusion of the research hypothesis test is that financial constraints are effective on investment performance based on the indicators (kz) and (ww), as well as the various levels of agency costs, including high and low agency costs effect on investment efficiency.

Financial constraints are one of the influencing factors on investment decisions. Financial constraints put firms under pressure to forgo investment opportunities to finance their working capital needs. Moreover, some variables like working capital needs and liquidity of a firm are likely to affect the relationship between these two variables. Hence, this study seeks to examine the effect of short-term credit constraints on the investment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), firms with different characteristics in comparison with large-sized firms. In addition, this correlation is tested by considering the effect of mentioned moderating variables (working capital and liquidity). The sample of this study includes the firms listed in Tehran Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2018, which are considered as SMEs based on some criteria. Multivariate regression models and E-views software are used to test the research hypotheses. The results indicated that short-term credit constraints negatively affect corporate investment.  It means that constrained firms invest in fewer investment opportunities because of facing source shortages. Moreover, in companies requiring more working capital, the inverse effect of short-term credit constraints on corporate investment is stronger. Such firms suffer from financial problems and are not able to use their investment opportunities. Additionally, this hypothesis that companies with high liquidity can offset u effects of short-term financial constraints on fixed investment, is not confirmed

This study aims to explore the adoption and implementation of emerging technologies in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). By understanding the motivations, challenges, benefits, and future plans of SME founders, this research provides insights into how these businesses leverage technology to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. The study employed a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 25 founders of SMEs across various industries. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interview data were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, following a thematic approach to identify key themes and insights related to technology adoption and implementation in SMEs. The study identified several motivations for technology adoption, including competitive advantage, cost efficiency, customer demand, innovation drive, and growth opportunities. Key challenges faced by SMEs included financial constraints, technical difficulties, resistance to change, regulatory and compliance issues, knowledge gaps, vendor dependence, and time constraints. The benefits realized from technology adoption encompassed improved operational efficiency, enhanced customer satisfaction, revenue growth, better data analytics, increased employee productivity, and greater market adaptability. Future plans of SMEs included continued investment in technology, scaling up implementation, focusing on employee training and development, forming strategic partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and improving customer engagement. The adoption and implementation of emerging technologies present significant opportunities for SMEs to enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency. However, SMEs must navigate various challenges to realize these benefits. By adopting a strategic approach and leveraging external partnerships, SMEs can successfully implement new technologies and drive sustainable growth. This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of SME founders, informing both practice and policy in the context of technological advancement in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Purpose: The objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive framework for identifying the challenges facing human resource management (HRM) in the education system of Iraq. By leveraging insights from key stakeholders, the study aims to provide detailed understanding and solutions to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of HRM practices in Iraqi educational institutions. Methodology: This qualitative study utilized a purposive sampling method to select 12 experts from the Iraqi education sector, focusing on the provinces of Maysan, Baghdad, and Dhi Qar. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, which were then transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo software. The analysis aimed to identify key themes related to HRM challenges, ensuring the validity of findings through researcher self-review and verification control. Findings: The study identified several significant challenges affecting HRM in Iraq's education system. Financial constraints, such as low salaries for educational staff and inadequate funding for schools, were pervasive. Infrastructural deficiencies, including old and poorly maintained school buildings, contributed to an unconducive learning environment. There was also a lack of technological integration, with schools insufficiently equipped and teachers untrained in using modern educational tools. Additional issues included inadequate parental and governmental support, a curriculum misaligned with societal and market needs, teacher demotivation, outdated assessment methods, and political instability influencing educational policies. Conclusion: Effective HRM practices, such as performance-based budgeting, financial decentralization, technological integration, and comprehensive teacher training programs, are essential for enhancing educator performance and improving educational quality.