School of Accountancy (ETDs)

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Browsing School of Accountancy (ETDs) by Author "Brahmbhatt, Yogesh"

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    The influence of fintech share trading and investment platforms on the participation of South African professionals in the South African equity capital market
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ishwarlal, Saiyuri; Sebastian, Avani; Brahmbhatt, Yogesh
    Background: The emergence of revolutionary financial technology as a result of the transition towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is transforming the financial services sector. Innovative financial technology, such as fintech share trading and investment platforms has the potential to increase access to the equity capital market, through enhanced user- experience, minimal trading costs and greater convenience. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of fintech share trading andinvestment platforms on the participation of South African professionals in the South African equity capital market. This study contributes to the emerging stream of fintech research, through examining the impact of fintech platforms on participation in the equity capital market. Method: A survey questionnaire was distributed electronically, and responses were received from professionals with various specialisations. The 199 usable responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. Findings: The findings of this study reflect a large percentage of professionals would not engage in the trading and investment of shares in the absence of fintech platforms. This suggests that fintech platforms are positively contributing towards the participation of South African professionals in the equity capital market. An individual’s age, level of education and number of years of investment experience show a statistically significant difference in respect of the dependency on fintech platforms for participation in share trading and investment. Data security and privacy concerns, a low level of trust in fintech platforms and lower levels of awareness of financial products and services are factors that inhibit the use of fintech platforms. Greater ease of use, affordability, efficiency and flexibility are elements that encourage the usage of fintech platforms
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    Understanding the attributes and characteristics of cryptocurrency ownership: A South African study
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Jetha, Hesita; Brahmbhatt, Yogesh
    Background: This study investigates the attributes and characteristics of cryptocurrency investors in South Africa and the attributes of cryptocurrencies that drive investment or non-investment. Objectives: This study aims to explore the demographics and sociodemographic factors of cryptocurrency investors as well as the emotions and biases that impact investors’ decisions to invest in cryptocurrency in order to investigate the individuals who invest in cryptocurrency and the reasons why they invest in cryptocurrency. Methods: A sample of 298 South African residents aged 18 and above completed an online survey that assessed their cryptocurrency ownership, demographics, motives for investment, attitudes toward cryptocurrency, and other relevant variables. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between these variables. Results: The results showed that cryptocurrency investors are more likely to be males, under the age of 35, who are currently employed and have higher income levels. The individuals’ main motives for investing in cryptocurrency were the opportunity to obtain high returns and the new technology that cryptocurrency encompasses. In addition, the results showed that attitudes toward cryptocurrencies significantly impact their decision to invest in cryptocurrency. Conclusion: These findings suggest that more information relating to the risks involved in cryptocurrency investment as well as the potential of cryptocurrency to be used as a medium of exchange is required among individuals to protect themselves against losses and simultaneously allow them to take advantage of the lucrative benefits that cryptocurrencies offer. Furthermore, policymakers, the government, and businesses require more information regarding cryptocurrencies in order to have the necessary policies in place and to stay competitive