Case studies

Teaching cases offers students the opportunity to explore real world challenges in the classroom environment, allowing them to test their assumptions and decision-making skills before taking their knowledge into the workplace.

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Case study
Publication date: 3 December 2024

Aditya Gulia and Jatin Pandey

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to understand lead and lag indicators, understand job performance and its linkage with job satisfaction, calculate…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to understand lead and lag indicators, understand job performance and its linkage with job satisfaction, calculate the cost of turnover and design solutions to the problem of attrition and low satisfaction.

Case overview/synopsis

Pace Control Gears was a small-scale enterprise based out of Sonipat, India. It was an entrepreneurial venture by Rajesh Kumar, who had set Pace in 2010 to manufacture low-voltage electrical apparatus. Recently, Pace had begun to experience issues with quality control that were largely the result of human error. The company was facing a drop in satisfaction levels and higher attrition levels among the employees. Kumar had to find a solution quickly to address the problem, as it had direct implications for the company’s margins and the assurance of quality that it was associated with in the market.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suited to undergraduate and postgraduate courses in human resource management and general management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 6: Human Resources Management.

Case study
Publication date: 2 December 2024

Manish Agarwal and V.S. Prasad Kandi

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to assess Paytm’s share buyback in the context of conventional practices, especially for loss-making firms, analyze…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to assess Paytm’s share buyback in the context of conventional practices, especially for loss-making firms, analyze the influence of initial public offering (IPO) performance on market sentiments and the role of subsequent events in shaping investor confidence, explore the regulatory framework for share buybacks in India and its impact on Paytm’s decision, scrutinize Paytm’s post-IPO financials and evaluate the board’s rationale for the share buyback and examine the factors influencing Paytm shareholders’ decisions amid the buyback, considering market conditions and the company’s outlook.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study discusses the unorthodox choice made by Paytm, a leading Indian digital payments and financial services provider, to begin a share repurchase program just one year after its substantial IPO. Paytm encountered difficulties as its stock price experienced a sharp decline of 74% following the IPO, which raised concerns among shareholders and elicited mistrust from analysts. This case study explores the reasoning for the buyback, the legislative framework of share buybacks in India and the diverse viewpoints of analysts regarding the company’s financial strategy. This case study provides not only ample opportunity to discuss ethical issues around managers’ corporate actions but also brings investors a dilemma.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suited to Master of Business Administration/Master of Science/Bachelor of Business Administration/Bachelor of Science.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 1: Accounting and Finance.

Case study
Publication date: 28 November 2024

Vaishali, Simran Gupta and Rahul Kumar

This case study aims to equip students with the skills to evaluate the rationale behind a demerger decision, derive the enterprise value and equity value of the conglomerate using…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

This case study aims to equip students with the skills to evaluate the rationale behind a demerger decision, derive the enterprise value and equity value of the conglomerate using the discounted cash flow valuation modelling and assess the company’s value based on qualitative parameters using economy industry company analysis and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study delves into the demerger of the financial services arm of Reliance Industries Limited into a separate unit named Jio Financial Services Limited. The independence of this unit is anticipated to enhance shareholder value and unlock the conglomerate discount. In light of these factors, a fundamental analysis of the firm is conducted to determine whether it presents a viable investment opportunity.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for -graduate and postgraduate courses in financial management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 1: Accounting and finance.

Case study
Publication date: 26 November 2024

Stephen T. Homer

The learning outcomes are as follows: to analyse the issue(s) presented within specific case study context (C4); to formulate solutions to identified issue(s) within specific case…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: to analyse the issue(s) presented within specific case study context (C4); to formulate solutions to identified issue(s) within specific case study context (C5); and to synthesise a group plan to solve issue(s) within specific case study context (A4).

Case overview/synopsis

In 2017, China proclaimed that it would no longer accept plastic waste for recycling, this was in-line with China’s Operation “National Sword” to review the quality of these plastic imports to ensure their recyclability. This sent shock waves through a now globalised recycling network, with China previously having imported 95% of the EUs and 70% of US plastics that had been collected for recycling. This plastic backlog was then diverted to South-East Asian nations, particularly Malaysia, which this case focuses the discussion upon. While the potential for significant economic benefits drew the attention of illegitimate and unscrupulous businessmen alike, the environmental degradation from the often, low technological recycling processes and even burning of low-grade plastics brought profound negative impacts. This case focuses upon, then Minister, Yeo Bee Yin who led the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change, in which she took an active and aggressive stance in attempt to stop Malaysia becoming the dumping ground for the global plastic crisis.

Complexity academic level

This case is appropriate for final year undergraduate and any postgraduate degrees in Business.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 4: Environmental Management.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 21 November 2024

Manish Agarwal, Anil Anirudhan and Sanjib Dutta

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to discuss how social entrepreneurs identify problems and convert them into opportunities, analyze the challenges…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, the students will be able to discuss how social entrepreneurs identify problems and convert them into opportunities, analyze the challenges faced by social entrepreneurs in setting up and growing a new venture and formulate an expansion strategy for a startup.

Case overview/synopsis

Over 2.6 billion people worldwide needed access to sanitation services, and most of them stayed in rural areas. Lack of access to sanitation had several negative consequences. In the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, sanitation was one of the major challenges, with 66 million people still lacking basic sanitation facilities. Additionally, a very small proportion of the wastewater was properly treated. This lack of access to sanitation was a major barrier to economic development and poverty reduction. Out of the 17 most water-stressed countries in the world, 11 were in the MENA region. About 15 million people in rural Morocco did not have a proper and sustainable sanitation system. However, there was an enormous opportunity to use wastewater as a resource. The global market for wastewater treatment services was valued at US$53bn in 2021, and it was expected to grow to more than US$71bn by 2026. Two Moroccan scientists – Dr Salma Bougarrani and Dr Lahbib Latrach, who were born and brought up in Morocco and had seen the wastewater problem very closely, decided to help the people at the bottom of pyramid (BoP) after completing their PhD in environment and water treatment technologies and multisoil-layering technology. They founded GREEN WATECH, a social enterprise, in 2018, which provided a low-cost, efficient and practical solution for wastewater management in the rural areas of Morocco. GREEN WATECH won many awards and cash prizes for its product and business plan. The company had already reached five regions of Morocco and positively impacted the lives of thousands of Moroccans. The founders were planning to expand to areas in the rest of Morocco and other African and Middle East countries. GREEN WATECH had the potential to significantly impact the lives of people in rural areas and help improve wastewater management systems in developing countries through its patented technology. However, the founders faced several challenges in making their dream a reality. They needed a bigger team to expand to different locations and countries but were finding it difficult to get the right people. They also needed funds to expand their geographical reach but found it tough to get investors as they were still unable to break even. It remained to be seen how the founders of GREEN WATECH would achieve their expansion goals and help people at the BoP in other developing countries.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suited to the Master of Business Administration/Master of Science and executive program.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

Case study
Publication date: 21 November 2024

Desi Adhariani

The learning outcomes are as follows: to evaluate the suitability of Surplus business model from accounting, finance, strategy and cultural perspectives; to identify the factors…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: to evaluate the suitability of Surplus business model from accounting, finance, strategy and cultural perspectives; to identify the factors that contribute to the reluctance of business partners to join Surplus ecosystem and to suggest solutions; to identify the factors that contribute to the reluctance of consumers to join Surplus ecosystem and to suggest solutions; and to address unique funding and financial challenges faced by Surplus.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study discussed the challenges faced by Surplus Indonesia, a company founded upon the belief that a harmonious balance can be achieved between profitability and environmental stewardship. Stemming from the founder’s encounter with leftover food going to waste after buffets, Surplus embarked on a pioneering initiative using an application technology to address food wastage at the consumer level. Collaborating with various stakeholders such as retail outlets, restaurants, bakeries, cafes and hotels, the goal was to combat food waste while supporting Sustainable Development Goals 2, 12 and 13: Zero Hunger, Responsible Consumption & Production and Climate Action, respectively. Each meal saved through the Surplus app not only translated to reduced expenses for businesses but also contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from landfills. Surplus’ overarching mission was to cut food waste and loss in Indonesia by half by 2030, fostering an environment where food waste is virtually nonexistent in the nation.

Complexity academic level

Undergraduate as well as graduate courses that focus on sustainability, accounting, financing and strategy

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 1: Accounting and Finance.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 20 November 2024

Miranti Kartika Dewi and Karina Wulandari

By the end of this case study analysis, students are expected to understand the dynamics of global markets by identifying institutional voids in prospective export destinations…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

By the end of this case study analysis, students are expected to understand the dynamics of global markets by identifying institutional voids in prospective export destinations using the framework by Khanna and Palepu; evaluate potential export destinations for Nablus Soap Company (NSC), taking into account the identified institutional voids and their implications for market entry.

Formulate strategies for NSC to address institutional voids and manage exports effectively to the selected country.

Assess various global expansion strategies beyond exporting for NSC, examining their respective advantages, disadvantages, and feasibility within the context of the company’s goals.

Analyze the factors that contributed to NSC’s successful expansion into 72 countries, despite the longstanding challenges faced by Palestinians since 1948, including the recent impact of the 2023 situation in Gaza on the West Bank.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study provides students with an in-depth understanding of the Palestinian economy, focusing on the NSC, a small and medium enterprise in the olive soap industry. Founded by Mojtaba Tbeleh in 1971, NSC’s legacy spans 400 years. It is known for crafting handmade, 100% natural soap with olive oil as a key ingredient. As of November 2023, NSC has successfully expanded its exports to more than 72 countries. Despite this achievement, the company faces significant challenges due to various restrictions, particularly those imposed by occupying forces. The case study provides insights into NSC’s international expansion challenges, guiding students in understanding how institutional voids in potential expansion destinations impact market entry decisions. It encourages them to identify these voids select appropriate markets and formulate strategies to leverage NSC’s global expansion potential.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for undergraduate- or postgraduate-level students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 5: International business.

Case study
Publication date: 15 November 2024

KBS Kumar and Indu Perepu

The learning outcomes are as follows: determine the conditions founders encounter when their company is not on the right track; examine the importance of ethics in…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: determine the conditions founders encounter when their company is not on the right track; examine the importance of ethics in entrepreneurship; draw up a broad framework to understand the degree of trouble an organization is in and how far it has gone since the early warning signs of trouble; and formulate a comprehensive solution for entrepreneurial founders to extricate their ventures from a crisis.

Case overview/synopsis

India-based Edtech company Byju’s was facing a slew of challenges as of mid-2023. Its founder and CEO Byju Raveendran needed to steer the company out of trouble.

Complexity academic level

Post Graduate/Executive Education.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS3: Entrepreneurship.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 12 November 2024

Padmalini Singh, Tamizharasi D. and Purushottam Bung

After completion of the case study, students will be able to discuss the characteristics of sustainable enterprises driving the innovation; analyze the concept of waste to wealth…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, students will be able to discuss the characteristics of sustainable enterprises driving the innovation; analyze the concept of waste to wealth, along with its associated benefits and challenges; provide an example of a sustainable start-up that operates conventionally and is attempting to increase production capacity through automation; and describe the strategies for scaling up the business.

Case overview/synopsis

Mr Manigandan Kumarappan’s goal was to provide the world with alternatives to plastic and other nonbiodegradable articles used in homes, offices, hotels and other places which compelled him to leave his corporate life behind and become an entrepreneur. His knowledge, expertise and creativity made him work toward providing a sustainable solution to the plastic-free world which made him create leafy straws for the world. His start-up Evalogia made 10,000 straws a day, mostly with manual production and machine-assisted in part of the processes. Evalogia got orders from all over the world after the ban on plastic from many countries. However, Evalogia was unable to meet the demand, as the manufacturing process mostly depended on manual production at present. Hence, the company planned to scale up its production capacity from 10,000 straws per day to 100,000 straws to meet the demand through automation or by increasing the production units to meet the growing demand from domestic and international markets. Kumarappan wondered if increasing the number of manufacturing facilities would make it harder to hire new staff, manage existing ones, train them and provide overall supervision; if these tasks were not completed well, the product’s quality and, subsequently, its demand, might suffer. The automation process required huge investment, time and a great deal of skepticism for its success. Kumarappan was stuck over whether to add more production units or automate the process to increase production.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for graduate students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 29 October 2024

Alicia Fourie and Judith Mariette Geyser

Following a discussion of the case, students should be able to analyse competitive dynamics: provide an in-depth critical analysis of Ilco Farming’s microenvironment, using the…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

Following a discussion of the case, students should be able to analyse competitive dynamics: provide an in-depth critical analysis of Ilco Farming’s microenvironment, using the structure–conduct–performance framework; evaluate strategic positioning: conduct a SWOT analysis of Ilco Farming’s medicinal cannabis business; and develop strategic approaches: propose actionable strategies that would provide effective solutions to the problem of constrained market conditions currently faced by Ilco Farming.

Case overview/synopsis

Coenie and Ilse Venter established Ilco Farming, a cannabis farm located in the Viljoenskroon district in the Free State province in South Africa, in 2021. From the beginning, they poured their hearts and souls into their new venture, which soon paid off. A few short months after Ilco Farming began operating, despite the presence of other large competitors, Ilco Farming supplied a large share of the domestic medicinal market with flower heads. But then an unexpected challenge presented itself. In March 2023, Ilco Farming was operating at only 23% (600 m2) of its production capacity of 2600 m2 and had considerable room for growth, the local market – at least the local legal market – for cannabis began to show signs of saturation. Coenie and Ilsa found themselves at the proverbial crossroads, grappling with the crucial decision of how to secure their farm’s future in the face of a fast-saturating local (legal) cannabis market and a thriving (illegal) black market. Coenie and Ilse refused to entertain the idea of going the black market route, as they were unwilling to risk losing their operating licence. They calculated that the farm would reach breakeven point within the next two years, with profits unlikely during this period. Should they persist with their current strategy of producing high-quality products and delivering a superior service in the hopes of growing their market share? Or should they consider other strategic options? Coenie and Ilse were sitting at their boardroom table having a cup of coffee and looking out of the window at Ilco Farming’s impressive SAHPRA- and GAP-approved warehouse and tunnels. “What should we do?” they both wondered.

Complexity academic level

The case study can be used in postgraduate courses in microeconomics (PGDIP/MBA) and agricultural economics (PGDIP/MBA).

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 5: International business.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

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