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The Influence of Brand Image on Online Purchase Decisions for Scarlett Students of The Faculty of Economics, University of Nias

Baene, Diana Novita, Harefa, Idarni, Waruwu, Meiman Hidayat, Hulu, Fatolosa
Abstract: This research aims to examine and analyze the influence of brand image on the purchasing decisions of students at the Faculty of Economics, Nias University, in the context of online shopping. The background of this study… stems from the rapid growth of e-commerce in Indonesia, which has significantly changed consumer shopping behavior, particularly among students who are highly adaptive to digital technology. In online shopping situations, where consumers cannot physically assess the product, brand image becomes one of the main factors influencing consumer trust, perceived quality, and confidence in making purchasing decisions. The type of research employed is quantitative research with a survey approach. The study population consisted of 1,959 active students of the Faculty of Economics, Nias University, with a sample of 95 respondents determined using the Slovin formula. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire covering brand image indicators (strength, favorability, and uniqueness of brand association) as well as purchasing decision indicators (problem recognition, information search, evaluation of alternatives, purchase decision, and post-purchase behavior). The data were analyzed using validity and reliability tests, simple linear regression analysis, t-test, and determination test with the aid of SPSS software. The results of the study indicate that brand image has a positive and significant effect on students' purchasing decisions in online shopping. This finding implies that the stronger the brand image, the higher the tendency of students to make online purchases. Therefore, companies or online businesses need to develop and strengthen their brand image through consistent marketing communication strategies, clear product information, and credible brand reputation to increase consumer loyalty and purchase intention.

The Influence of Free Shipping and Online Customer Reviews on the Shopee Platform on Purchasing Decisions of Students of the Faculty of Economics, Nias University

Zebua, Reyan Janefata, Telaumbanua, Aferiaman, Kakisina, Sophia Molinda, Zebua, Serniati
Abstract: This study investigates the role of acquisition premiums in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and their impact on shareholder wealth, focusing on five major Indian deals in pharmaceuticals, retail, banking, steel, and renewable… able energy sectors. Potential synergies often justify acquisition premiums ranging from approximately 15% to 40% above target companies’ market values. However, market responses suggest that such premiums may not consistently result in value creation for acquiring firms' shareholders. Empirical findings reveal mixed outcomes: Sun Pharma’s acquisition of Ranbaxy led to a 9.8% share price increase within five days, while Tata Steel’s high-premium acquisition of Bhushan Steel saw only a 1.7% gain. In contrast, deals like Reliance–Future Retail and Tata Power–Welspun Power showed minimal or negative returns, despite sizable premiums. These patterns indicate that premium size alone is not a reliable predictor of post-deal shareholder wealth creation. The study concludes that M&A success depends more on strategic fit, market timing, and sectoral dynamics than on the premium offered. This analysis contributes to the broader M&A discourse by offering evidence-based insights into how premium valuations can either maximise or dilute shareholder value, aiding investors, corporate strategists, and policy analysts in deal assessment.

Murabahah Financing as an Engine oof Growth: Analysis of Contribution and Integrated Risk Management at BMT Alif Mandiri Makassar

Rostini
Abstract: The development of Islamic microfinance institutions requires the implementation of financing schemes that are not only compliant with Sharia principles but also capable of maintaining financing quality and sustainability.… y. One of the most widely applied contracts is murabahah financing, particularly in supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This study aims to analyze the implementation of murabahah financing and the risk mitigation strategies applied at BMT Alif Mandiri Makassar. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with management and financing officers, and documentation studies. The findings indicate that murabahah financing at BMT Alif Mandiri Makassar is implemented regularly through several stages, including application submission, feasibility analysis, financing approval, contract realization, and post-disbursement monitoring. The financing analysis emphasizes repayment capacity, members' character, and the suitability of financed goods for productive business needs. Risk mitigation strategies are conducted through careful customer character assessment, direct business verification, proportional margin determination, the use of collateral as a financing safeguard, and continuous monitoring. This study concludes that productive murabahah financing supported by integrated risk management practices is an effective and sustainable financing instrument for the development of MSMEs within Islamic microfinance institutions

The Influence of Work Engagement and Work Environment on Employee Performance Through Job Satisfaction at PT. Kiat Ananda Group In Surabaya

Karno, Pertiwi, Tri Kartika, Swastika, Ika Korika
Abstract: This study aims to analyze the effect of work engagement on employee performance, to analyze the effect of work environment on employee performance, to analyze the effect of work engagement on employee performance through… h job satisfaction, and to analyze the effect of work environment on employee performance through job satisfaction. The research method uses a quantitative approach with the population consisting of all employees of PT. Kiat Ananda Group, totaling 80 people. The sample for this study used a census technique, where the entire population was included as the sample. Data processing and analysis were performed using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method with the SmartPLS 3.0 software to test the relationships between variables. The results indicate that work engagement and work environment have a positive effect on employee performance. Moreover, job satisfaction was found to significantly mediate the effects of work engagement and work environment on employee performance. These findings suggest that improving employee performance can be achieved through enhancing work engagement and a conducive work environment, supported by high levels of job satisfaction

Understanding Accounting Practices in Culinary MSMEs In The Tanjung Bunga Metro Area, Makassar City

Saleh, Andi Mulia, Alimuddin, Said, Darwis
Abstract: The focus of research shifts from the dominance of positivism to a non-positivistic approach that places meaning, interpretation, and social construction at the center of analysis. One of the main approaches within this… paradigm is Grounded Theory Research (GTR), a qualitative method developed by Glaser and Strauss (1967) to build empirically data-based theory through a rigorous inductive process. In the accounting context, GTR becomes increasingly relevant because reporting practices, accountability, and financial decision-making cannot be understood solely through objective measurements, but rather through social interactions, organizational values, and the interpretations of the actors involved (Ahrens & Chapman, 2006). This article aims to examine the role and relevance of GTR in modern accounting research by highlighting its philosophical foundations, methodological procedures, and contributions to the development of practice-based accounting theory. Through a systematic literature review, it is found that GTR has the ability to uncover the social dynamics that shape accounting practices such as accountability, ethics, managerial control, and institutional legitimacy that have previously been overlooked by positivistic approaches (Charmaz, 2006; Bryant & Charmaz, 2007). GTR has also proven relevant in the context of changing reporting systems, accounting digitalization, and the integration of sustainability principles such as ESG, where meaning, professional identity, and interpretive processes are dominant elements (Adams & Larrinaga, 2019). The study's findings confirm that GTR not only offers a systematic method for data collection and analysis, but also provides a more reflective, context-sensitive epistemological framework capable of generating substantive theory that is truly rooted in organizational reality. Thus, GTR is a powerful methodological alternative in enriching accounting knowledge, while providing a deeper understanding of how accounting practices are executed, negotiated, and interpreted in everyday organizational life.

The Effect of Working Capital Management on The Growth of Savings and Loan Business in The Osseda Faolala Women's Consumer Cooperative Nias

Gulo, Foster Herwin, Zebua, Dedi Irawan, Zebua, Serniati, Telaumbanua, Aferiaman, Telaumbanua, Aferiaman
Abstract: This study analyzes the financial condition of the Osseda Faolala Perempuan Nias Consumer Cooperative during the period January 2021–December 2024, focusing on the management of current assets, short-term liabilities, and&#8230; and the repayment rate of member loans. Data were processed using descriptive statistics and simple linear regression to assess the cooperative's financial balance and factors influencing business growth. The classical assumption test showed that the regression model met the feasibility criteria, both in terms of normality and autocorrelation, thus the analysis results were reliable. The t-test results proved that working capital had a positive and significant effect on cooperative business growth with a significance value <0.05. The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.887) confirmed that 88.7% of the variation in business growth was explained by working capital management. This means that the more optimal the management of working capital—including current assets, short-term liabilities, and member loans—the higher the cooperative's chances of growth and development. In addition to strengthening the existing literature, this study is consistent with the findings of Winata et al. (2023) on manufacturing companies and Herawati (2023) on savings and loan cooperatives, both demonstrated the importance of working capital management to financial performance. However, these results differ from the research of Rezki Erdian et al. (2022) on the retail sector, which found that receivables had no significant effect on profitability. This difference indicates that the relevance of working capital is highly dependent on the institutional context. Overall, this study confirms that optimal working capital management is not merely an administrative issue, but a strategic factor determining cooperative business growth and improving welfare. member.

Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Based on Creative Industry in Ulunoyo District, South Nias Regency

Ndruru, Hubertus Harisman, Zebua, Dedi Irawan, Bate'e, Maria Magdalena, Gulo, Heniwati
Abstract: This study examines the development of creative industry-based Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Ulunoyo District, South Nias Regency, with a focus on four main sectors: culinary, crafts, fashion, and music.&#8230; . The purpose of this study is to describe the condition of creative MSMEs in Ulunoyo, identify the obstacles faced, and analyze the development strategies implemented by business actors to increase competitiveness. The method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through interviews, field observations, and documentation of 21 MSME actors in five villages. Data analysis was carried out through reduction, presentation, and verification of findings. The results show that the development of creative MSMEs in Ulunoyo is supported by the potential of community creativity, strategic location, and the existence of traditional markets as distribution centers. Development strategies include improving product quality, business diversification, design innovation, and the use of digital technology for promotion and marketing. However, a number of major obstacles are still encountered, including limited business capital, rising raw material prices, low managerial skills, lack of product innovation, limited market access, and high levels of competition. To overcome these obstacles, business actors carry out creative promotions, expand their collaboration networks, and utilize social media to reach a wider consumer base.

Escaping the Equilibrium: Strategic Innovation as a Deliberate Disequilibrium Mechanism in Oligopolistic Competition

Nurman
Abstract: This study aims to analyze the application of game theory in understanding strategic behavior among firms in an oligopolistic market. Using a qualitative approach with a literature review method, this research examines the&#8230; he concepts of Nash equilibrium, dominant strategy, and price discrimination as foundations for determining optimal strategies among market players. The findings show that game theory, particularly the Cournot, Bertrand, and Stackelberg models, effectively explains competitive interactions in markets with limited participants. Moreover, regulations such as Law No. 5 of 1999 play an important role in maintaining fair competition. Game theory proves to be an effective analytical tool for formulating corporate strategies and economic policies in oligopolistic markets

The Digital Disruption of Traditional Equilibrium: Analyzing the Impact of E-commerce and Social Commerce on Demand Supply Dynamics for Electronics in Makassar

Imran Musa, Chalid
Abstract: This research is based on the imbalance between demand and supply that often occurs in the consumer goods market in Makassar, which causes price changes and market instability. This study is unique in a local context by&#8230; emphasizing the real interaction between demand and supply as a factor that affects the market balance at the regional level. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of demand and supply on the balance of the consumer goods market in Makassar. This study adopts a quantitative approach by using primary data from 250 respondents, consisting of 200 consumers and 50 traders with questions using a five-point Likert scale. Data analysis is carried out with multiple linear regression using SPSS version 25, as well as involving validity testing, reliability and classic assumption testing. Research findings show that the demand and supply variables have a positive and significant effect on the market balance with an Adjusted R² of 0.285. Together, the two variables explain 28.5% variation in market balance. This result shows that the increase in demand and the availability of the supply of consumer goods are the key to maintaining price stability in the local market.

SMART Instagram Optimization: A Framework for Building Malabar’s Stronger Brand Awareness and Identity in the Digital Era

Hasbiah, Sitti
Abstract: This study aims to improve the internal capacity of Malabar MSMEs in managing digital marketing through an internal training program designed based on the SMART Framework approach. The main problem faced by Malabar is the&#8230; e lack of staff understanding in managing social media, especially Instagram, which impacts weak brand awareness and brand identity. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with a project-based learning method, in which researchers are actively involved in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the training program. Data were collected through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation during the training process. The training objectives were formulated specifically, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-limited, in accordance with the SMART principles. The results showed a significant increase in staff understanding of content planning, creating visual materials consistent with brand identity, and using Instagram analytics features. The post-test showed an increase in the average score of participants, and the MSMEs' digital activities became more structured. These findings indicate that internal training designed with the SMART approach is effective in building staff digital competencies and supporting brand image strengthening on social media. Overall, this study shows that improving internal digital literacy is a strategic step that can strengthen the competitiveness of MSMEs in the ever-evolving digital ecosystem