Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)
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Item Fostering the retention of talented and skilled employees by understanding the motivators of employee turnover intention from a South African SMME perspective(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Edayi, Juliet; Venter, RobertCurrent small, micro and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) are concerned about understanding the preliminary factors that prompt employees to leave their organisation (i.e., labour turnover intention) rather than to wait, only to be left to deal with the disruptive and costly consequences of actual employee turnover. The extant literature has widely provided evidence to justify that employee turnover is very destructive and presents many costs for organisations due to its counterproductive nature. South African small and micro businesses constantly endure high rates of employee turnover as other businesses (especially big companies) are frequently poaching highly skilled workers. This burden has made it increasingly challenging for SMMEs to keep, particularly highly skilled and high-performing employees, whose talents are highly sought after and are paramount to their firm’s overall success and sustainability. Therefore, this study was conducted from an SMME context so as to equip small and micro business employers with fresh insights on how proactively adjust their employee retention strategies and foster their continued survival and long-term growth. Moreover, the South African labour market has a limited number of high-performing and brilliant employees who eventually become assets to the business once hired, thus creating a need to retain such talented personnel. The shortage of skilled labour coupled with the high costs of attracting, hiring and training new employees proffers a compelling need for scholars to actively direct their research attention to unravelling this phenomenon of labour turnover intention. Research outputs will positively equip SMME practitioners with the relevant and proven information for them to devise well-informed retention strategies before employees’ intention to quit the organisation manifests itself into an actual turnover. This study sought to achieve a meaningful understanding of the interplay between the complex relationships that exist between the selected variables and to establish how this comprehension can aid SMME practitioners in effectively reducing employee turnover rate to a reasonable proportion. For this study to establish this ultimate goal, an empirical investigation was done amongst employees in selected SMMEs in Gauteng province of South Africa. A conceptual framework that depicted all the relationships was developed and several hypotheses were formulated based on the evidence from the extant literature. This study utilised a cross-sectional research design through a quantitative-based method. A structured questionnaire was formulated and was administered in-person, and additionally distributed via emails. Data was gathered through non-probability convenience sampling, whereby 338 valid responses were received from employees across the selected SMMEs in Gauteng. iv Descriptive statistics (e.g., item analysis, Cronbach’s alpha computation) and bivariate correlation analysis were analysed using SPSS v 28 and inferential statistics were analysed through Structural Equation Modeling was undertaken using AMOS v 28. While the findings of this study corroborated the outcomes that were submitted by earlier scholars, some fresh and exciting directions in the associations between specific variables were established. This study eventually submitted a unique conceptual model that depicts the validated interactions between the study variables. It is believed that the confirmed associations detailed in the conceptual model will be used as guidelines for small and micro business practitioners to meaningfully and effectively manage employee turnover intentions while simultaneously fostering the retention of talented and high-performing workers. This investigation concluded by recommending that a similar study must be replicated using a mixed-method approach that applies probability sampling and longitudinal research design so as to address the methodological shortcomings that characterised this study.Item Exploring the reporting lag among JSE-listed entities(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ritzlmayr, Matthew Andreas; Maroun, Warren; Ecim, DusanThis thesis investigates how variations in “inherent”, “control” and “detection risk” may account for reporting lags for entities listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) from 2017 to 2021. The reporting lag is the time between the financial year-end and the date of the audit report. Seven hypotheses are tested using panel regression and a sample of 100 companies listed on the JSE from 2017 to 2021. The regression analysis was performed to identify if client factors (classified as sources of inherent and control risk) or auditor characteristics (classified as sources of detection risk) may impact the reporting lag. A battery of sensitivity tests is used to confirm the findings. The model developed using inherent, control and detection risk, was able to explain the reporting lag. Entities characterised by higher levels of inherent and control risk show an increase in the reporting lag. An increase in detection risk also leads to an increase in the reporting lag. The article proposes a novel conceptual model for classifying client and auditor characteristics in terms of the risk which material misstatements in financial statements go undetected. The inherent, control and detection risk framework provides a comprehensive assessment of reporting lag determinants grounded in a well-established risk and assurance discourse which resonates with both academics and practitioners. Findings complement a relatively large body of work on reporting lags which prioritise developed economies. The results offer one of the first accounts of the reporting lags from a key African economy while controlling for the effects of pre-and post-COVID impacts.Item Financial inclusion in South Africa: An analysis of the financial sector regulatory framework and proposals for reform(2018-09) Duma, Amanda; Kawadza, HerbertAbstract Not Available.Item Organisational Development Strategies to Mitigate Strike Action in Mining Companies in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tanyanyiwa, Olivia Tashinga; Matshabaphala, Manamela; Nixon, OcharaThis study delves into the challenges faced by the mining sector in South Africa due to frequent strike actions and explores various organizational development strategies that can be implemented to mitigate these occurrences. The research highlights the significance of effective communication, employee engagement, conflict resolution mechanisms, and leadership development in fostering a positive work environment and reducing the likelihood of strikes. By drawing on relevant literature, case studies, and expert opinions, the study aims to provide valuable insights for mining companies operating in South Africa to proactively address labor disputes and promote sustainable industrial relations. Through the implementation of strategic organizational development initiatives, mining companies can create a culture of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect among employees and management, ultimately leading to improved productivity and stability within the sector.Item Fintech Application for Unbanked Minimum Wage Earners in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Swart, Wynand Petrus Hendrik Nicolaas; Mogotsi, KeratiloeWith the high unemployment rate in South Africa, the greatest proportion of the salary earning population earns minimum wages. This is especially true within the farming and agriculture community, as the agriculture sector constitutes one of the largest contributors to the South African GDP as one of the main employers in the country. The farming sector is required to adhere to the minimum wage regulation determined by the South African government, where farm workers struggle to survive on the income that they receive, which many in this precarious financial circumstance opt to receive in cash. This business venture proposal sought to identify a solution in the form of a mobile fintech application specifically designed for minimum wage earners to use instead of a traditional banking account. The objective of venture is to help minimum wage earners to opt for a cashless method to receive their wages, enabling them to manage their finances without incurring banking fees that diminish the already limited amount on which they survive. The cost of the application is designed to be borne by their employers, the workers themselves, among others, making the product affordable and attractive, and ensuring a heterogenous revenue stream for the owner of the platform. A qualitative research methodology was used to explore the venture to identify areas of interest, as well as factors affecting the viability of such a business venture. Twenty-five interviews and questionnaires were completed through in-depth interviews with farm workers and owners. The findings have shown that there is a definite need for cheaper banking systems in this economic climate. The findings also suggested that what the product was initially intended to do would need to change to suite customer needs better, however, the pivot point created as part of a lean start- up strategy followed by the business team allowed for moving in different directions to create a successful venture. This business venture proposal can benefit from some further research in the areas of technological adoption and implementation.Item Challenges and opportunities faced by social entrepreneurs in Sekhukhune District Municipality, Limpopo(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Moipane, Phasha PharaneBackground: Social entrepreneurship is increasingly recognised as a powerful means to address pressing societal issues. However, a substantial gap exists in the literature regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by social entrepreneurs in the Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) in Limpopo. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the specific hurdles and prospects encountered by social entrepreneurs within this geographically isolated context. Significance: Social entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in mitigating socio-economic challenges and fostering community development. Their contributions are especially significant in underserved areas like the SDM. Population and Sample Framework: Data for this study was collected through interviews, articles, reports, and websites. Out of 50 social entrepreneurs approached, 26 accepted to be interviewed, constituting the study's sample. Method of Data Collection and Analysis: Qualitative research methods were employed to conduct interviews with the 26 social entrepreneurs operating in the SDM of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The data collected was analysed to uncover the challenges and opportunities faced by these social entrepreneurs. Highlights of Results: The study's findings underscore the substantial obstacles faced by social entrepreneurs in this region, which include insufficient funding, restricted access to networks, and inadequate training. These challenges hinder their project financing and sustainability efforts. Conclusions and Recommendations: This study recommends expanding local economic development and municipal procurement policies to provide interest-free grants to emerging entrepreneurs in the region. Furthermore, it suggests that social entrepreneurs can overcome some of these challenges by harnessing support from customers and leveraging tender opportunities provided by the SDM and other entitiesItem Perceived impact of reimbursement policies on accessibility to PCSK9 inhibitors in the South African private healthcare sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ngobeni, Plossie; Totowa, JacquesThe South African private healthcare sector is confronted with the challenge of the limitation of adoption and access to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), a cholesterol-lowering medicine. At the heart of this is the complex nature of the reimbursement policies that are failing to yield favourable outcomes for patients, investors and practitioners alike. The long-term implications of these current medical reimbursement policies include resistance to medical cover, a decline in innovative drug adoption, a decline in optimal medical outcomes, decline in human capital development, loss in productivity, global drug companies pulling out of the South African market, and an extra financial burden to the patients. This study, employing a qualitative approach, aims to investigates barriers limiting adoption and access to PCSK9i in the South African private healthcare sector with a focal focus on reimbursement policies implemented by medical funders and insurances. The study also explores the market access and commercial success of PCSK9i hindered by reimbursement policies. Through semi-structured interviews as the main method of primary data collection, and using a thematic analysis, the explores the barriers, challenges and burdens that impede market access and entry for the PCSK9i and how this affects the economy, commercial success and stakeholders involved. The findings of this study indicate that reimbursement policies can have far-reaching impacts on businesses and the economy, affecting everything from cost management and innovation to employee satisfaction and market dynamics. Businesses must carefully navigate these policies to optimize their operations and remain competitive in the marketplace. Finally, the study proposes evidence-based recommendations for broadening accessibility to PSCK9i. These include encouraging medical funders to adopt a “risk-sharing” concept, value-based healthcare, patient advocacy groups, and review single exit pricing regulations. The significance of these recommendations is their potential to aid policy makers and other important stakeholders in decision making and ensuring access to the most deserving hypercholesteremia population.Item Financial inclusion through WhatsApp banking in Johannesburg(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Miller, Jade Rowan; Balabanoff,GarthApproximately three billion people will use mobile banking by 2024. Mobile devices and widespread Internet access are helping to boost mobile banking's popularity. Retail banks can now offer their customers even more convenience with mobile banking applications like WhatsApp. Consumers and financial institutions have embraced advanced technologies, including mobile banking, in recent years. Social media, mobile banking and new ideas like WhatsApp banking have made it easier for people to do business. Mobile banking is now possible thanks to high smartphone penetration and technological advancements. The fourth industrial revolution will continue to exponentially transform the modern economy. Globalisation has forced banks to open new channels to remain competitive in today's market. Banks have had to cut costs and improve their financial position by introducing new products and services. Mobile banking has grown rapidly globally due to the rapid development of information technology. Due to multi-channel distribution, most banks now have a global presence with cross-border customers. A quantitative approach was taken to examine factors that may influence behavioural intention to use WhatsApp banking in the context of financial inclusion. A questionnaire was used as the primary data collection instrument. The survey was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed to people living in Johannesburg, South Africa. The study adds to the body of knowledge by identifying factors that influence WhatsApp banking adoption, particularly in developing countries. The Technology Acceptance Model by Davis (1985) was used to investigate behavioural intention to use WhatsApp banking. My findings show that perceived trust, banking inclusion, perceived usefulness and awareness all play a significant role in WhatsApp banking adoption. Managers in financial institutions should focus on increasing consumer trust across all age groups to increase customer comfort with non-traditional banking platforms in general and thus increase financial inclusion. This is crucial because ix WhatsApp banking has the potential to bank the unbanked and underbanked while also increasing financial inclusion.Item The nexus between the World Governance Indicators’ scores on corruption and the financial performance of SOEs in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Mdluli, Mthokozisi XolaniSouth Africa, according to Crompton et al. (2017), is dealing with a triple threat of poverty, inequality, and unemployment. As a result, the government is faced with the task of meeting all of these urgent demands while being hampered by a tight budget and weak economic growth. Procurement is a critical component of the government's service delivery system, and it has been utilised as a policy tool to achieve the government's socioeconomic goals (Badenhorst-Weiss, 2012). Government spending is required to be thoroughly thought out on this basis before any public funds are spent. As a result, government expenditure should be monitored and evaluated as part of the architecture of all government-led projects (Crompton et al., 2017). SOEs (State-owned entities), also known as public entities, are tasked with specific responsibilities by the country's constitution in order to assist the state in fulfilling its mandate (Ovens, 2013). In line with international trends, South Africa has implemented corporatisation, or the transfer of state assets or agencies into state-owned corporations, in a number of areas to encourage more effective and efficient service delivery. Increased public procurement is the result of this. Public procurement involves a large amount of money, which has attracted corruption because of the scale at which it is carried out (Crompton et al., 2017). According to the South African Department of Commerce and Industries, government purchasing power contributed between 15% and 25% of GDP in 2016 (Makube, 2016). Makube (2016) estimates that, between 2013 and 2016, public infrastructure investment in healthcare facilities, schools, water, sanitation, housing, and electrification totalled R827 billion. As a result, the SOEs have been subjected to outside intervention, as well 2 as possible wrongdoing and corruption. According to recent media reports, the country has unacceptably high levels of corruption (Mantzaris, 2016). Understanding how this corruption affects the workings of SOEs is important if the country wants to attempt to start addressing this scourge. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the relationship that exists between a known measure of governance in a country, namely the World Governance Indicators and the financial performance of SOEs in South AfricaItem The adoption of efficient technology in emerging markets within State Owned Bank in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Malatji , Jaftha Sechube; Dladla, PholileThis study aims to explore the adoption of efficient technologies in a South African state-owned enterprise (SOE) or state-owned bank (SOB), specifically investigating the factors that affect how efficient technologies are adopted, the challenges that come during the adoption phase, and the advantages that result from successfully adopting efficient technologies. The research study applied a qualitative research design and used interviews with open-ended questions to collect data. The findings reveal a complex landscape influenced by various elements such as communication, leadership, organisational culture, and operational efficiency. The study highlights the importance of technology adoption within an SOE or SOB. Based on the findings, recommendations were formulated that can be used to enhance how the South African State-Owned Bank can manage the adoption of new technologies efficiently while reducing the risks connected with technology adoption. Despite certain limitations, the study provides valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of new technology adoption in a traditionally oriented country like South Africa.