Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters)

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    Mobile banking apps curation: Assessing the factors that influence mobile banking’s continuous use amongst Millennials and Generation Z
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mashishi, Neo; Zulu, Melissa
    The proliferation of mobile banking platforms and the widespread use of intelligent devices like smartphones and tablets have caused a paradigm change in the banking industry in recent times. Millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z), dubbed the "digital natives," make up most of these service consumers. Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly using mobile banking apps, which has transformed how financial services are delivered. Nevertheless, despite being widely adopted, banks need help to ensure the continuous use of these apps to sustain a devoted and loyal consumer base while competing in the market. This study, therefore, investigates the factors influencing Millennials and Gen Z's continuous use of mobile banking applications. Five theoretical frameworks have been adopted to direct the research inquiry: Computers As A Social Actor (CASA), Expectation Confirmation Theory (ECT-IS), Social Response Theory (SRT), Task Technology Fit (TTF), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The study adopted these frameworks based on their theoretical and empirical applicability and ability to provide perspectives into the variables impacting Millennials and Gen Z's continuous use of mobile banking apps. The study employed SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) for the analysis of descriptive statistics. To validate the theoretical model and investigate the interactions between variables, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). PLS-SEM, Smart PLS software was used to assess the validity and reliability of the constructs as well as the strength and importance of the proposed paths in the structural model was made possible by the PLS-SEM methodology. This provided an overview of the dataset and made it possible to do a thorough analysis by outlining important features like means, frequencies, and standard deviations. The research used quota sampling for a sample size of 505 participants. The study's conclusions indicate that there is a substantial correlation among perceived anthropomorphism, expectation confirmation, service quality of mobile applications, mobile banking app satisfaction, technology fit, and consistent usage of mobile banking apps. The study’s goal is to advance our understanding of the field of banking and financial services marketing. The banking sector can apply the findings and insights to differentiate its offerings from its competitors and gain a competitive edge while potentially boosting profitability.
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    The use of Social Media and Marketing Analytics to improve Marketing Decision Making in Independent Apparel Retailers in Gauteng Townships
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Masia, Willie Shemane; Zulu, Melissa
    sis. The findings reveal that township-based independent retailers predominantly utilise Facebook and Instagram as their primary marketing channels. Social media platforms facilitate direct customer interaction, enabling retailers to attract and engage customers through inquiries, polls, product showcases, and customer service interactions, thereby nurturing new leads. This study aims to enrich the field of marketing management by elucidating the effective utilisation of social media and marketing analytics by independent retailers in township settings. The insights garnered hold potential value for policymakers in devising training policies that incorporate practical social media and marketing analytics tools, empowering township-based retailers to navigate the competitive landscape more adeptly.
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    Embracing technology to rejuvenate South African mining: a comparative case study analysis of a South African and an Australian mining firm
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Vink, Tarryn; Callaghan, Chris
    It is well recognised that the mining industry is the historic bedrock of the South African economy. However, since 2000 the industry has shown signs of decline that include, inter alia, a slowdown in growth along with productivity issues. Since South Africa (SA) lags behind its global competitors in terms of technological innovation and implementation; many leaders in the mining industry are of the view that the increased use of technology will arrest this decline and restore the mining industry to a stronger position in the South African economy. What is, however, not fully understood is the extent to which technological change is contextually path dependent. This meaning that technological change in an industry is restricted by past events which enhance its resistance to change. This results in a lack of knowledge regarding how best to manage technological change. This would include understanding the most suitable implementation methods for certain contexts. The intention of this dissertation is to explain why firms in the South African mining industry lag behind their global competitors in terms of technological adoption. It aims to understand how differing contextual factors influence mining firms’ behavior, that, in turn, has an industry- level effect. It aims to understand how firms should manage this technology properly to optimise its interaction with its environment. Additionally, it aims to understand which theoretical approach, in relation to technological change, mining firms should follow to properly navigate their technological trajectories in light of contextual imperatives. The unit of analysis in this methodology is at the firm level. It takes specific contextual factors into account to determine which method of implementation is more appropriate for new technological advancements. This was executed by conducting two methodology phases. Phase 1 of the methodology which consisted of a holistic comparative case study analysis of a South African and an Australian mining firm. This study phase analysed archival documents that tracked changes in the responses of these mining firms over time. This was conducted using information from their financial statements and company reports, with the aim of investigating how these matched the government and environmental contexts seen in policy and country related documents. Phase 2 of the methodology comprised a qualitative analysis that used individual interviews in an attempt to develop useful insights that contextualise and support the findings of Phase 1. Various theoretical predictions have been derived in the form of propositions. The theory thus inductively developed has been used to answer some how and iii why questions about the strategic responses of firms to contextual imperatives. The study therefore produced a holistic analysis illustrating how each firm engaged with its respective contexts and how this may have resulted in path dependant relationships regarding technological innovation. The research emphasises that the South African mining industry's lag in technological adoption compared to global competitors could be attributed to an imbalanced innovation focus and a restrictive business context. It suggests that firms should address their technological and contextual needs separately to effectively manage innovation. The findings also stress that incremental improvements alone, are unlikely to enable a catch-up up with global leaders. Instead, radical interventions are necessary to shift the current trajectory toward one that prioritises productivity to achieve social objectives, enabling a plausible catch up.
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    Impact of Telemedicine, Telehealth and Virtual Online Consulting in the Nephrology Paradigm in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ayoob, Naeema; Oro, Oro Ufuo
    The study is aimed at assessing the impact of telemedicine and telehealth, particularly the use of virtual consults with dialysis patients. The uniqueness of this study is that it allows clinicians the opportunity to provide nephrology care to patients at distant areas from various sites nationwide and globally. This research is not intended to set out the ideal or best practices for the chronic kidney disease (CKD) setting or to recommend the code of conduct to adhere to, but rather to contribute towards the current literature and adapting behaviors that facilitate excellent health outcomes. In this way, the research project seeks to care for the health profession in South Africa through adopting and incorporating new innovations and technologies into everyday processes and practices. Chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis require frequent and regular attention from the clinician; however, nephrologists are limited globally; particularly in South Africa. Thus, clinicians find it difficult to attend to multiple dialysis units simultaneously. The use of telenephrology will transform the dynamics of renal care globally as this allows for one doctor to attend to multiple units and liaise with peers. This study assesses the impact of telenephrology, via multifaceted and innovative modalities that will revolutionize the care and outcome of CKD and kidney replacement therapy (KRT). The study seeks to create awareness on the importance of telenephrology in the treatment of kidney disease. In order to achieve the main objective. The study will evaluate clinicians and patients’ perception to use and reuse the technology and its’ influences on patient confidence in treatment.
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    Perceptions and Adoption Trends of Artificial Intelligence in Portfolio Construction and Management in the Financial Services Industry of South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Agjee, Zeyn; Horney, Sylvester
    The adoption of Artificial intelligence (AI) in portfolio construction promises to revolutionise financial services, offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, foster innovation, and drive disruptive change. This qualitative study investigates the perspectives and adoption trends of AI-driven portfolio construction methods among South African financial services organisations. The research uncovers attitudes, challenges, and aspirations surrounding AI adoption through in-depth interviews with nine industry professionals. The study finds that while there is widespread enthusiasm within the industry for AI adoption in portfolio construction and the industry, professionals express reservations about trust, lack of understanding, data challenges, costs and AI's efficacy in navigating the complexities of the South African market. The study highlights complexities in AI adoption, including transparency, regulatory compliance, accountability, data considerations, overfitting issues, human-machine interactions, lack of agility in companies and potential job displacement concerns. Despite the increasing acceptance of AI in investment management, significant obstacles persist, necessitating concerted efforts to address problems and cultivate trust and openness within the industry. The paper presents valuable insights into the patterns of AI adoption in South Africa, offering practical recommendations for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers. It emphasises the importance of trust-building strategies among industry practitioners, highlighting the need for transparent communication and ethical considerations throughout AI adoption. Additionally, the paper underscores the role of policymakers in developing regulatory frameworks that promote responsible AI integration, advocating for guidelines that uphold ethical principles and protect consumer rights Further, there is a call for continued support for research and development efforts tailored to the South African market, aiming to address specific challenges and foster innovation in AI technologies. Overall, the findings emphasise the necessity of collaboration between stakeholders to ensure the ethical and widespread practical adoption of AI in South Africa's financial sector
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    The effects of coronavirus on SMEs business performance, technology adaptation, financial innovation, and sustainability
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kolobe, Benjamin; Maisela, Sikhumbuzo
    Businesses have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in significant economic hardship. An analysis of COVID-19's impact on Small Medium Sized enterprises (SMEs) shows that these businesses' and their employees' financial outcomes are probably going to get worse before getting better. The main issue is that small and medium-sized business owners have restricted access to capital and innovative strategies, which has made it challenging for them to deal with the tight constraints. As a result, many SMEs have had to adopt innovative financial and technological strategies to promote sustainability and prevent closure (Puddister & Small, 2020). This study examines the impact on business performance, technology adaptation, financial innovation, sustainability, and lockdown restrictions of SMEs during the pandemic. An online questionnaire with 30 closed-ended questions was administered to entrepreneurs in the retail sector across Gauteng. The following inquiries are addressed in the study: What impact has the coronavirus had on SMEs' ability to do business? How has technology adoption improved small and medium- sized enterprises' performance during the coronavirus lockdowns? Is there a chance that financial innovation may sustain SMEs throughout the pandemic? Has the coronavirus epidemic affected SMEs' ability to survive? Using non-parametric tests, the researcher examined the correlations between the independent and dependent variables for each of the four hypotheses using IBM SPSS. The associations between the variables were examined using inferential statistics such as Spearman's rho correlation function, multinominal logistic regression, generalized linear model, and ordinal linear regression. All four of the hypothesis' correlations were determined to be significant. This study suggests that fostering financial inclusion, promoting technology adoption through training and grants, and encouraging innovative financial approaches can empower SMEs to navigate pandemic challenges and build resilience. Proactive policy interventions and support systems tailored to SMEs are crucial to mitigating the pandemic's economic consequences and promoting long-term sustainability
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    “Communication Agents Impacting Consumer Green Training and Competencies: Moderating Role of Creativity”
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Piperidis, Konstantinos Georgios; Duh, Helen Inseng
    Marketing management scholars are examining the extent to which knowledge, skills and competencies in environmental management assist in protecting the environment while gaining economic benefits. However, there are questions as to the communication agents developing the green training and resultant competencies. Thus, this dissertation employs the Ability- Motivation-Opportunity (AMO), Socialisation, and Natural-Resource- Based-View (NRBV) theories that guided the development of a conceptual model to examine the extent to which four socialisation agents (peer, family school, and media) impacted green training and ultimately green competencies. The research also examined the mediating role of green training and the moderating role of green creativity in how much green training drives green competencies. Quantitative data was collected from 425 students and non-student respondents through online questionnaires. SPSS was used to examine descriptive statistics and SmartPls was used to conduct structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for the testing of the hypotheses. The results revealed that the socialisation agents (i.e., peer, family, school, and media) significantly impacted green training, which in turn significantly impacted six dimensions of green competencies (i.e., green knowledge, green skills, green awareness, green ability, green attitude, and green behaviour). Green training mediated all the relationships between the socialisation agents and green competencies. Consumer creativity significantly moderated the relationships between green training and the awareness and knowledge dimensions of green competencies even though negative. Environmentalists and consumer interest groups would benefit from this study by identifying the communication agents that can best train consumers to consider the environment in their consumption behaviours and develop competencies in assisting in environmental protection. Marketing practitioners and social marketers can also benefit from the knowledge of which communication agents can be best targeted to educate customers and develop their green competencies, while their green creativity makes its influence.
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    The Role of Leadership in the Implementation of Strategic Projects in a Commercial Bank in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Mutshinya, Phathutshedzo; Wotela, Kambidima; Matshabaphala , Johnny
    This research highlighted the role of leadership in the delivery of strategic projects in a commercial bank setting. The research followed a quantitative research strategy whereby a sample of a commercial bank was approached to gather their insights and perceptions of the leadership role in the implementation of strategic projects. The views of commercial bank employees were analyzed to identify gaps that existed in the leadership behaviours and traits currently adopted in the banks. Findings from this research confirmed that there are indeed gaps in the leadership role that leave room for improvement for a more successful outcome of the strategic project implementation. The study highlighted that leaders in a commercial bank should lean towards agility to guide and support towards a more successfully implementation of strategic projects
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    Determinants of credit risk on residential mortgage loans in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020) Mbulana, Alikho; Mthanti, Thanti
    Residential mortgages are an important asset class for banks as these assets provide the majority of bank’s income. By the nature of issuing loans to customers, this asset class also presents the greatest risk to the banks and as a result, banks need to constantly evaluate and review credit risk in order to ensure dynamic response strategies that curb losses and achieve sustainable profits. This study aims to investigate factors influencing credit risk on residential mortgage loans in South Africa. A regression analysis was conducted to capture the influence of both macroeconomic and bank specific factors on loans that have been in arrears for less than 89 days and on loans that have been in default for more than 90 days; using monthly data from an undisclosed bank over a period of eight years, 2010 to 2018. The results show that Housing Price Index, Unemployment, Household Disposable Income, Bank’s Capitalization and Operational Efficiency are the only significant determinants for non-performing residential mortgage loans that are less than 89 days. Credit Quality, Inflation, Unemployment, Household Disposable Income, Bank’s Capitalization, Operational Efficiency and are the main determinants of the non-performing residential mortgage loans greater than 90 days
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    Bancassurance on commercial banks and life insurance in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mapena, Thabang; Hoohlo, Mphekeleli
    The increase in competition and the scramble for customers in the financial industry has led to the convergence of banking and insurance to form what is known as Bancassurance. Bancassurance, as the name suggests is the distribution of insurance products using bank platforms. Although two parties get into the bancassurance agreement in search of some mutual gains, it comes with unintended consequences which among other things affect the banking efficiency of banks. This study assesses the efficiency changes brought about by Bancassurance in the SADC commercial banks. Using Data Envelopment analysis with the return to scale, an analysis was done on 21 banks with active insurance income on a case and control methodology. The results showed insurance income having no impact on the regional banks’ efficiencies. The income insurance however had an impact on some banks’ returns to scale