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An efficient customer behavior prediction model is designed using deep learning techniques. The necessary data used for the implementation are taken from standard datasets and presented to perform subsequent tasks. Here, deep restricted Boltzmann machines (RBM) features are retrieved from the input images. Further, the extracted deep RBM features are presented to the customer behavior prediction phase. Here, the attention-based hybrid deep learning (A-HDL) technique is designed based on the incorporation of a dilated deep temporal convolutional network (dilated-DTCN) and a weighted recurrent neural network (weighted RNN). Moreover, the weights in RNN are tuned using a modernized random parameter-based cheetah optimizer (MRPCO). Further, various experiments were performed on the implemented framework, and it secured an enhanced customer behavior prediction rate than the conventional models.

A novel hybrid deep network-based customer behavior prediction model was developed to predict the behavior of the customer so the companies yield more income by advertising their products based on the predicted results.

When considering the first dataset, the designed customer behavior prediction mechanism produced 94% accuracy, which is higher than the conventional techniques such as long short-term memory (LSTM), DTCN, RNN and A-HDL with 88%, 87%, 89% and 93%.

The precision and the accuracy of the developed MRPCO-A-HDL-based customer behavior prediction model progressed than the conventional techniques and algorithms.

The paper applies the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to investigate how surrogate advertising on social media platforms influences consumer attitudes towards alcohol products. Additionally, it explores the moderating effect of consumer scepticism on these attitudes.

A cross-sectional survey of 304 consumers was conducted to test the hypotheses using variance-based structural equation modelling (VB-SEM). Slope analysis was used to examine interaction moderation effects, while importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) identified key dimensions influencing alcohol purchasing behaviour.

The findings revealed that subjective norms and behavioural intentions significantly influence alcohol purchasing behaviour in the context of surrogate advertising on social media. The results suggest that advertisers should focus on themes of collective consumption, camaraderie and togetherness in their social media advertising content to enhance sale outcomes.

Research on surrogate advertising on social media platforms, particularly in shaping attitudes towards alcohol products, remains limited. This study addresses this gap, offering marketers critical insights into performance-based variables that can help them develop more effective marketing strategies.

This study introduces a methodology that combines geographic information technologies and consumer behaviour principles to define, delineate and quantify the trade area (TA) of a bank branch within the context of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The goal is to design an optimal distribution network tailored to the needs of financial institutions involved in M&A activities.

The paper presents a procedure for TA delimitation, grounded in a theoretical model supported by marketing and consumer behaviour theories, focusing on proximity, purchase frequency and product type.

Addressing a gap in the literature, this study highlights TA delineation as a key element in marketing strategy, exploring its role in establishing optimal distribution networks, particularly for financial institutions engaged in M&A.

For simplicity, the study focuses on a single bank branch, rather than a broader dataset.

The proposed methodology enables more accurate delineation of TAs in M&A processes, mitigating the negative effects often overlooked by banks during mergers and acquisitions.

This approach helps reduce the risk of financial exclusion for vulnerable clients, promoting social and economic equity and fostering a fairer, more cohesive society.

This study is innovative in integrating geographic information science (GIS) metrics into location science, proposing fragmentation analysis to quantify the spatial structure and configuration of TAs. This approach departs from traditional practices, as these specific metrics have not been collectively applied in previous research.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to dramatically change the human approaches to work, and specifically to learning and development. While AI coaching can reduce costs and increase accessibility, it also presents both opportunities and threats to human coaches. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed research on the use of AI in coaching.

A systematic literature review (SLR) method was used to search eight databases for articles produced up to March 2024. Data extraction was conducted, with Quality Assessment undertaken independently, in parallel, using two researchers and a third arbiter. The ROBINS-I tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. A narrative synthesis of a total of 16 quantitative, qualitative or mixed-method studies covering n = 2312.

The SLR identified four key themes: Research design and AI integration, AI usefulness in coaching, impact of AI coaching and ethical considerations. The findings suggest that AI coaches can be effective, accepted, useful and match human coaches in competence for specific tasks.

AI coaching is a growing area of practice and research. This paper brings together the literature and identifies future research priorities and potential next steps in AI coach development.

The paper uses clinical research SLR methods applying these robust processes to the field of organisational research, to set a new standard through the use of a pre-determined research protocol, quality assessment and ROB, well providing a comprehensive literature review of AI coaching.

The purpose of this paper is to examine the complexities of crowdfunding for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh, with a focus on its global significance and unique characteristics in Muslim nations. By identifying key challenges such as the lack of a legislative framework, limited understanding of crowdfunding strategies and insufficient knowledge among entrepreneurs, this paper aims to provide recommendations for overcoming these obstacles. Through the analysis of open access articles published between 2015 and 2023, supplemented by occasional non-open access resources, this review seeks to contribute to the understanding of crowdfunding dynamics in emerging economies and inform policy and practice in this area.

A comprehensive review of the obstacles facing crowdfunding in Bangladesh’s SME sector was conducted using a diverse range of literature sources. These included 15 paid journal articles, 49 open-access journal articles, three conference papers, two websites and 11 book chapters. The selection of paid articles was based on criteria such as relevance to crowdfunding and fintech in emerging markets, recentness and influence. The review focused on literature published between 2015 and June 2024, encompassing key developments like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Articles were sourced from platforms like Typeset.io, Google Scholar and ResearchGate, with themes categorized by cultural, social, regulatory, technological and economic factors.

This review paper explores the complexities of crowdfunding in the context of SMEs in Bangladesh. It provides insights into its worldwide significance, unique characteristics in Muslim nations and the obstacles encountered in the financial environment of Bangladesh. Crowdfunding has become a prominent worldwide trend, revolutionizing traditional fundraising methods and providing a wide range of funding options for different projects. Nevertheless, the implementation of this technology in Bangladesh, despite its significant role in the worldwide economic sphere, is hindered by various obstacles. The assessment highlights the capacity of crowdfunding to tackle the financial obstacles encountered by SMEs in Bangladesh, which is a crucial sector for the economic progress of the country. The current crowdfunding platforms in Bangladesh, including Projekt.co, GoRiseMe, Fundsme and Oporajoy, encounter reliability problems, which impede the wider adoption of this innovative financial model, despite its tremendous potential. Multiple factors contribute to the lack of popularity of crowdfunding in Bangladesh. These factors comprise the absence of a legislative framework, a poor comprehension of various crowdfunding strategies and a general lack of knowledge among entrepreneurs. The research highlights various obstacles, including limited expertise, insufficient government backing, reputational risk, security weaknesses and the adverse characteristics of crowdfunding, as major hindrances. Moreover, this study investigates the factors that contribute to the lack of acceptance of crowdfunding among entrepreneurs and investors in Bangladesh. Challenges concerning the financial system, regulatory deficiencies and a deficit of confidence arise as crucial elements impeding the efficient exploitation of crowdsourcing. Cultural and behavioral factors, together with technical literacy, significantly influence crowdfunding intentions. To surmount these obstacles and fully use the possibilities of crowdfunding for economic advancement, the assessment puts out a number of suggestions. These factors encompass the requirement for a secure and reliable financial industry, strong development of policies, increased clarity and the incorporation of all individuals and groups. To enhance confidence, safeguard backers’ interests and expedite the adoption of crowdfunding in Bangladesh, it is recommended to implement government intervention, regulatory reforms and integrate blockchain technology. For crowdfunding to thrive in Bangladesh and make a substantial contribution to economic progress, it is necessary for multiple stakeholders to make coordinated and determined efforts. To fully unlock the revolutionary power of crowdfunding in Bangladesh’s SMEs financial landscape, it is crucial to address the regulatory loopholes, improve financial awareness and use innovative technology.

The reliance on open-access sources, influenced by budget constraints and the lack of institutional access, may introduce some bias. However, the inclusion of a few key paid articles, identified through Typeset.io and reviewed for their relevance, aimed to mitigate this limitation and provide a well-rounded analysis.

The practical implications of this review paper are significant for improving crowdfunding adoption in Bangladesh’s SME sector. By identifying cultural, social, regulatory, technological and economic barriers, this paper provides insights for policymakers to design better regulations that ensure security and transparency in crowdfunding. It can also guide crowdfunding platforms to address these challenges, making their models more accessible and reliable. Entrepreneurs and investors can benefit from a clearer understanding of crowdfunding as an alternative financing option. In addition, this paper offers a foundation for future research and the development of fintech solutions tailored to emerging markets.

The social implications of this review paper are crucial for fostering inclusive entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. By addressing the barriers to crowdfunding, particularly for women and marginalized groups, the findings can promote greater access to finance for underrepresented entrepreneurs. This could lead to increased economic participation and empowerment, helping bridge the financial gap for SMEs in underserved communities. In addition, enhancing crowdfunding adoption can drive innovation, encourage community-based projects and support social enterprises, contributing to overall socioeconomic development. The insights can inspire initiatives that make crowdfunding more inclusive, helping uplift disadvantaged groups in Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial landscape.

The originality/value of this review paper lies in its comprehensive analysis of the complexities of crowdfunding for SMEs in Bangladesh, particularly within the context of Muslim nations. By synthesizing existing literature and identifying key challenges such as the lack of a legislative framework, limited understanding of crowdfunding strategies and insufficient knowledge among entrepreneurs, this review offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and researchers. The recommendations proposed, including secure financial practices, strong policies and government intervention, alongside regulatory reforms and blockchain integration, contribute to advancing knowledge and informing strategies to promote sustainable crowdfunding initiatives for SMEs in emerging economies.

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a thorough study of the current research status and trends of Artificial Intelligence-Generated Content (AIGC), which is thriving and exerting significant influences on society, the economy and technology. This study will encompass both the ample opportunities and the array of emerging risks and challenges associated with AIGC. Furthermore, this paper seeks to propose practical optimization strategies to facilitate its continued development.

A total of 12,702 documents in Scopus, CNKI and Altmetric.com databases are analyzed in this paper. The visualization tools of CiteSpace and Netdraw are used to systematically analyze AIGC from macro, meso and micro perspectives based on bibliometric indicators. The analysis is combined with altmetrics indicators to identify hotspots in AIGC-related research and predict future development trends. Finally, substantive optimization suggestions for the development of AIGC are put forward.

Research has found that firstly, both domestic and international research in the field of AIGC is actively catching up with the pace of the era. Institutions and authors recognize the indispensability of collaboration, leading to the emergence of interdisciplinary cooperation trends. Secondly, at the thematic research level, both domestic and international studies cover the overall trends of AIGC, including technology, applications, challenges and coping strategies. However, international scholars tend to focus more on technological breakthroughs, while domestic researchers emphasize the formulation of national laws and regulations. Finally, through the analysis of hotspots and trends, it is predicted that future research will focus more on addressing the legal issues regarding the originality of AIGC, enhancing its interactivity, optimizing its applications, emphasizing ethical considerations and efficiently addressing major social issues such as pandemics using AIGC technology. Corresponding optimization strategies are proposed to ensure the development of AIGC is consistent with global consensus and values, creating a beneficial environment for its sustainable development.

Firstly, this paper integrates data from three databases and uses multiple software tools to conduct a comparative analysis of the research trends in AIGC from both domestic and international perspectives. Secondly, this paper not only analyzes the academic influence of AIGC-related research through bibliometric indicators but also combines altmetrics indicators to explore the public’s attitude toward AIGC. This method systematically reveals the overall development trends, leading institutions and researchers, thematic research areas, hotspot evolution and future development trends of AIGC-related research, providing theoretical references for subsequent scholars in AIGC research. Additionally, this paper helps governments, institutions and organizations to precisely and wisely formulate policies and investments, as well as to effectively comprehend the development trends of AIGC and promote the advancement of AIGC technology and applications.

Housing finance is frequently difficult to provide in developing nations due to unstable macroeconomic conditions and a lack of supportive legal, technological and regulatory frameworks (Lea and Bernstein, 1996). Governments in these countries have, therefore, created a range of organizations and initiatives to improve the flow of capital to the housing market on a footing that is affordable to their populations given the household income levels (Ram and Needham, 2016). Housing, however, is by its very nature a significant investment requiring a considerable capital outlay at the onset (Dasgupta et al., 2014). This makes acquiring it challenging, particularly in underdeveloped nations where saving tendencies are quite low partly because of low-income levels (Keller and Mukudi-Omwami, 2017). As a result, many developing nations struggle with severe housing issues that lead to slums, overcrowding and related health issues.

The theoretical model for analyzing housing finance in Kenya in this study incorporates both demand and supply aspects, drawing from Brueckner’s (1994) framework. This model divides factors influencing demand into certainty and uncertainty conditions faced by households. In terms of certainty, the model considers factors that households can predict reliably. First is income, households are assumed to have stable income, allowing accurate assessment of budget constraints and mortgage decisions. Second is interest rates. While interest rates fluctuate, the model assumes that households have information about current rates, enabling informed decision-making. Finally, existing housing costs, such as rent or mortgage payments, are treated as fixed and predictable, facilitating accurate budget planning. Conversely, uncertainty factors include future income, future interest rates and housing prices. Households face uncertainty regarding future income, which can impact their mortgage repayment ability due to job market changes or unforeseen events. The model does not predict future interest rate changes, which can affect the affordability of mortgages. Furthermore, future fluctuations in housing prices add uncertainty to the benefits of homeownership and mortgage debt. Due to these uncertainties, the model in this study assumes certainty conditions, focusing on households maximizing their utility. In Brueckner’s model, a utility function captures household preferences and well-being linked to consumption choices, specifically between housing (H) and nonhousing goods (N). The utility function helps determine optimal income allocation, influenced by income (M), prices (P) and return on savings (t). The utility maximization problem involves selecting optimal amounts of housing and nonhousing consumption while managing housing credit (C).

The study confirms a significant long-run relationship between house finance and several macroeconomic variables, including interest rates on credit, inflation, unemployment and gross domestic product (GDP). The negative and significant error correction term indicates the presence of an equilibrium relationship, suggesting that the housing finance market in Kenya self-corrects swiftly in response to economic shocks. This efficiency could be attributed to increasing competition among financial institutions or a growing public awareness of housing finance options, implying a relatively well-developed market. Such responsiveness suggests that government policies aimed at influencing housing finance might have a quicker impact. For instance, introducing subsidies to reduce credit rates could rapidly boost housing finance activity (World Bank, 2019). However, the flip side of a fast-adjusting market is potential volatility, where rapid swings in economic factors could lead to significant fluctuations in housing finance availability, posing risks for both lenders and borrowers (Braun et al., 2022). Moreover, a rapid adjustment might not necessarily reflect a perfectly healthy market; it could indicate underlying issues like speculation or easy access to credit, potentially leading to bubbles or financial instability (Agnello et al., 2020).

This study reveals key insights into the determinants of housing finance in Kenya, demonstrating a significant long-run relationship between housing finance and economic variables such as interest rates, inflation, unemployment and GDP. The efficient adjustment of the housing finance market to economic changes suggests that government policies can rapidly influence housing finance, although this responsiveness also implies potential volatility and risks, including financial instability. Policymakers should, therefore, focus on maintaining macroeconomic stability and monitoring the housing market for signs of overheating. Encouraging competition among lenders and diversifying housing finance products can help ensure sustainable market adjustments. Credit interest rates show a modest but positive relationship with housing finance, suggesting that a stable lending environment could stimulate activity. Policymakers should manage credit availability to prevent excessive expansion and instability, enhancing financial inclusion and fostering competition in the banking sector. Inflation positively impacts housing finance, with rising inflation driving demand for real assets like housing. However, significant interest rate hikes by the Central Bank to combat inflation could reduce mortgage affordability. A flexible interest rate policy, along with targeted interventions like subsidized rates for first-time buyers, is necessary to balance market stimulation with inflation control. Unemployment’s negative impact on housing finance underscores the need for robust unemployment benefits and job training initiatives to support financial stability during job losses. Targeted housing finance programs for low- and middle-income earners can also improve mortgage accessibility. The positive correlation between GDP growth and housing finance indicates that economic expansion drives housing demand. Policymakers should prioritize initiatives that promote long-term economic growth, such as infrastructure development and innovation. Finally, the insignificance of savings interest rates in influencing housing finance suggests that traditional monetary policy may have limited effects. Promoting financial literacy and developing tailored savings instruments could strengthen the connection between savings and housing finance over time.

To mitigate debt repayment ability in underbanked borrowers such as students, debt attitude is used as an initial approach. This study aims to focus on how students’ debt attitudes and behaviours are shaped from a cultural point of view.

Through qualitative research in one of Indonesia’s multicultural universities, ethnography was used to elicit a stable dominant cultural factor that shapes students’ debt attitudes and behaviours.

Perceived Islamic values were found to induce debt anxiety but to encourage positive coping strategies such as prioritising debt repayment, minimising consumption and spending and avoiding shirking one’s responsibilities.

Debt is a complex issue, and the authors have simply examined the impact of religion on attitudes and behaviours. Nonetheless, other important variables are considered in the literature, such as family and a debt-friendly atmosphere. This research was constrained by time and finance, so it only relates to ITB students. Additionally, understanding why women were more likely to be anxious because of their embracing of debt-related Islamic values from a religious point of view is absent in the literature, and thus requires future investigation.

The findings offer two practical implications. Firstly, this study could improve the credit assessment process to detect debt anxiety more accurately because the causality of anxiety is known. Furthermore, when detecting debt-relax, creditors may demand a higher financial literacy score to minimise non-payment. Secondly, with regard to financial literacy, Indonesians exhibit low levels, with only 32% considered to be financially literate according to the 2020 OECD assessment. By recognising the stable cultural factor influencing debt attitudes and behaviours, educators, creditors and policymakers can enhance financial literacy programme efficiency with participants’ religious values.

In the context of limited financial literacy, Islamic values can be beneficial for society because their perception and practice could induce debt anxiety while generating positive anxiety-coping mechanisms identified as anti-debt behaviours.

Previous research has found correlations between religiosity and attitudes, as well as between gender and attitudes, towards debt. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate that perceived religiosity causes anti-debt attitudes and behaviours, which is more evident in anxiety-prone women. The findings answer the calls of Harrison et al. (2013, 2015), Harrison and Agnew (2016) and Kettley et al. (2008) to understand why women possess an aversion to taking on debt, especially from the point of view of cultural and societal norms, as posited by Meyll and Pauls (2019).

The purpose of this paper is to analyze FTX cryptocurrency frauds. FTX is a former cryptocurrency exchange platform that went bankrupt because of fraud in 2022.

Using a qualitative method and a case study of FTX, the authors document the multiple fraud schemes perpetrated. The authors collected media and research articles that discussed the FTX case. The authors analyzed 18 articles.

Based on this case, the authors highlight the governance and ethics weaknesses in the FTX environment. The authors also discuss cryptocurrency risks and regulation of cryptocurrencies. The FTX affair has shaken up the international regulatory world, which has been seeking solutions to protect customers and investors and helping banks take positions since 2022.

This study contributes to the fraud literature by deeply examining cryptocurrency fraud risks. In addition, the findings could help financial institutions and guide them in the cryptocurrency world.

This study investigates the impact of organizational culture on the governance transparency of audit firms operating in the emerging market of the United Arab Emirates. The study unpacks how organizational culture influences audit firms' perceptions and practices regarding transparency in leadership, operations and reporting.

The primary data for this study is collected through an online survey distributed to auditing firms in the UAE, with statistical analysis conducted using multiple regression models and robustness checks. The survey is designed to assess transparency practices in leadership, operations and reporting based on the Financial Reporting Council’s (UK) audit firm governance code. Then, the data is analyzed using SPSS software, representing a diverse sample of auditors from different firm types, ownership structures and sizes.

The study reveals that organizational culture significantly influences audit firms' perceptions of governance transparency practices. Specifically, cultural aspects such as public interest, improvements and consultation positively and significantly impact voluntary transparency in leadership, operations and reporting. Notably, reporting practices are particularly affected by organizational cultural norms and values. Furthermore, transparency practices vary based on audit firms' size, type and industry. These findings offer valuable guidance for audit firms, regulators and accounting standards setters in developing suitable governance mechanisms for global audit firms, including developed and developing countries.

Future studies may extend the scope by including additional transparency issues such as independent non-executives and dialogue practices. Further, it would be valuable to investigate the influence of organizational culture components, such as symbols and assumptions shared by employees, on governance transparency and to include an additional set of control variables, such as corporate governance. By incorporating these aspects into research, a more comprehensive understanding of transparency practices within organizations can be achieved.

This study offers directions for stakeholders in the audit industry, aiding them in developing effective governance strategies both locally and internationally. The study further highlights ways audit firms can foster a culture of transparency, regulators can establish relevant frameworks, and accounting standards setters can contribute to developing consistent and appropriate governance mechanisms across different countries.

This study explores the influence of organizational culture on governance transparency in UAE audit firms, emphasizing the role of cultural elements in shaping transparency practices. It provides insights for enhancing governance mechanisms in global audit firms. Previous studies dealt with different determinants of audit behavior and performance. This study extends this prior literature by focusing on organizational culture as a vital underlying informal mechanism for controlling agency relationships.