3. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

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Bank liquidity and systematic factors in emerging markets
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mphuthing, Katleho; Alovokpinhou, Sedjro
This study investigates the impact of systematic factors on bank liquidity creation in emerging markets. We use the method Bouwman (2009) designed to compute liquidity creation measure, where we examine the effect of systematic factors such as the economic growth rate, inflation, interest rates, and the exchange rate on liquidity creation. The study further provides insights into the divergent impacts of systemic factors across different regions. The regions considered are Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Using a ten-year data (2013 -2022) from consolidated balance sheets of listed banks, and selected systematic market factors, the study uses the generalized method of moments (GMM) as the estimation technique. The results show that the US dollar exchange rate is the one important systematic factor significantly driving bank liquidity creation in emerging markets. At the regional level, we found inflation to be a significant factor; however, the relationship between systematic factors and bank liquidity creation differs from one region to another. To this effect, the research concludes that banks and policymakers in emerging markets should consider managing factors such as exchange rates and inflation to enhance their performance.
The Moderating Influence Of Gender Bias On Factors Determining Choice Of Successor In South African Family-Owned Businesses
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Maphalala, Siyabonga Mthunzi; Venter, Robert
Family businesses play a crucial role in South Africa’s economy, contributing to job creation and growth. However, patriarchal norms often favour male successors over equally qualified female family members, creating challenges in equitable succession planning. This study explores how gender bias moderates the relationships between succession determinants: successor preparation, planning-control activities, cultural-family dynamics and succession outcomes. Guided by Human Capital Theory and Gender Theories, the study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional design. Data was collected via structured online questionnaires from stakeholders in family-owned businesses across South Africa. Stratified random sampling ensured geographic diversity, and regression and moderation analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics. The findings reveal that gender bias weakens the positive effects of succession planning efforts. Patriarchal stereotypes often limit opportunities for female successors, despite their qualifications. However, businesses with inclusive practices like gender-neutral policies, experience smoother leadership transitions and greater sustainability. This study contributes to Human Capital Theory by showing how gender bias limits leadership development and extends Gender Theories by illustrating how cultural norms shape succession outcomes in South African family businesses.
The impact of Big Data Analytics Capabilities on the performance of South African Financial Sectors
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Molepo, Sinah; Ndlela, Thubelihle
The relationship between big data analytics capabilities and firm performance has garnered a lot of attention from both practitioners and academics recently. Organisations have been investing in technologies like big data analytics to enhance performance, however, not all organisations have proven benefits of its impact to the firm’s performance. The study proposed the big data analytics capabilities conceptual framework, drawing upon the two theories resource-based view and dynamic capability to determine the impact of big data analytics capabilities on the firm performance of the financial sectors in South African, with a mediator of dynamic capabilities. The findings of this study confirm the positive and significant relationship between big data analytics capabilities and the firm performance in South African financial sectors. Moreover, it was found that amongst the three big data analytics capabilities, tangible, intangible and human resources, the human capabilities had the greatest impact to firm performance, followed by tangible capabilities. On the other hand, the intangible capabilities had no significant impact of the firm performance. Furthermore, the study revealed that there is no significant effect of dynamic capabilities mediation on the relationship between big data analytics capabilities and the firm performance.
Augmented reality applications and consumers’ purchase intentions in the South African e-commerce fashion industry
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Molefe, Kgothatso Mishack; Quaye, Emmanuel
Augmented reality (AR) is increasingly being adopted in e-commerce fashion industry; however, limited studies have explored its direct effect on consumers purchase decisions, mainly in the South African market. AR is seen as a solution to common challenges faced by e-commerce fashion retailers, which include high rate of product returns and a lack of sensory shopping experience. Despite many practical benefits offered by AR technology, the extent to which AR applications shape consumers' online buying decisions remains underexplored. This study investigates the influence of AR applications on consumers purchase intentions in the South African e-commerce fashion industry. The study further explores the factors that influence attitudinal behaviour to use the technology by extending the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with three predictor variables (inspiration, consumer innovativeness and perceived enjoyment), one moderator (product involvement) and outcome variable (purchase intentions). The data was collected from 324 online shoppers in Gauteng, South Africa, using a survey. To analyse and test the hypothesised relationships, structural equation modelling (SEM) was used. The results reveal that AR applications have significant influence on consumers purchase intentions. Furthermore, consumers attitude toward using AR applications was found to be significantly influenced by perceived enjoyment, perceived usefulness, inspiration and consumer innovativeness. Contrary to the expectations, perceived ease of use was found to have insignificant effect on attitudinal behaviour. Product involvement was also found to be insignificant in moderating attitudes and behavioural intention to use AR applications. The implications of the findings for online retailers, technology developers and marketers were discussed in detail.
Electricity skills assessment and gap analysis for the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Energy Department
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Mokgosi, Cleopatra Nonhlanhla
The Constitution of South Africa (1996) and the Municipal Structures Act (Act No. 117 of 1998) outline the creation of municipalities and their roles and functions. The CoE is a local government entity responsible for administering services and governance within the Ekurhuleni area. To ensure effective services and governance, the municipality must have skilled personnel resources. The Local Government Municipal Systems Act (Act No. 32 of 2000) provides a comprehensive framework for municipalities, including human resources management and service provision. Municipal managers appoint and train personnel in various departments, focusing on specialized areas like electricity, water, urban planning, finance, and environmental management. The Energy department in a municipality must be skilled to manage complex activities and maintain the municipality's energy infrastructure. The skills of the Energy department's personnel closely correlate with their capacity to embrace technological advancements. This study aims to investigate the skills of the municipality's electricity personnel, assess if the CoE has adequate skills, and provide a skills gap analysis and recommendations.
Enabling Digital Transformation of the South African Coal Mining Industry Through Digital Skills Development
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Moketla, Sewela P.; Pellissier, René
The South African coal mining sector is transitioning from labour-intensive methods to digitally enabled work environments to boost productivity, efficiency, and safety. However, recent studies and literature highlight that the workforce's digital skills remain a significant challenge. This qualitative study explored the factors influencing the development and enhancement of digital skills within the South African coal mining industry. It sought to identify industry-specific barriers to digital skill development and provide a framework for improving workers' digital competencies. The study employed focus group discussions to explore the factors influencing the development of digital competencies. Employees from company X in the coal mining sector participated in three focus groups. Due to participant availability, each focus group consisted of three to four participants and lasted between sixty and seventy-five minutes, with the researcher acting as the moderator. Thematic analysis of participant responses revealed industry-specific determinants of digital skills development. The results highlighted both enablers and hindrances, including the type and rate of technology adoption, its impact on work methods, and the resulting skills gap in the workforce. Human factors such as mindset, motivation, and language proficiency were also significant. Additionally, the organisational environment, rewards, and incentives greatly influence employees' motivation to develop digital skills. Key tactics identified as foundational include the need for industry collaboration with stakeholders and the availability of tailored training and development programs.
Factors influencing cart abandonment in South African fashion e-commerce
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Mkhize, Sibusiso; Dorson, Thomas Anning
The rise of e-commerce has transformed consumer behaviour, but cart abandonment remains a significant challenge for online retailers. This study investigated the factors influencing cart abandonment among South African online fashion shoppers, framed within the conceptual frameworks of usability, security, and perceived price fairness. The research aimed to identify and analyse the drivers of cart abandonment, bridging gaps in existing literature by focusing on a developing market context. A quantitative approach, comprising a survey, was adopted. Data were collected from a sample of 400 online shoppers using a validated survey instrument and analysed using statistical methods, including regression analysis and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The quantitative analysis explored relationships between independent variables (website usability, perceived security, and perceived price fairness) and the dependent variable (cart abandonment). Key findings revealed that website usability significantly affects cart abandonment rates, emphasising the need for intuitive navigation and fast- loading pages. Perceived security was found to influence trust in online transactions, with shoppers prioritising platforms offering robust encryption and transparent data policies. Lastly, perceived price fairness emerged as a critical determinant, with hidden charges leading to higher cart abandonment. The study concludes that addressing these factors collectively can reduce cart abandonment rates and enhance customer retention. The findings provide actionable insights for e-commerce stakeholders and offer strategies for optimising online shopping experiences in South Africa. Future research should expand the scope to include cross-industry comparisons and explore emerging factors, such as environmental sustainability and personalisation, in e-commerce behaviour.
Exploring the Imposter Syndrome: Perspectives from Executive Coaches
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Mkhize, Nonhlanhla; Ndlovu, Elona
This study examines the role of executive coaching as an intervention to support and empower women leaders who experience imposter syndrome in South Africa. The imposter syndrome refers to a psychological phenomenon characterised by self-doubt and the persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud." In South Africa’s corporate landscape, where women remain underrepresented in senior roles, imposter syndrome poses a significant barrier to women’s professional growth and career advancement. The purpose of this research was to explore the perceptions of executive coaches regarding their experiences in coaching women leaders affected by imposter syndrome. A qualitative, interpretivist approach was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with fifteen experienced executive coaches. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and insights. Key findings reveal that executive coaches perceive impostor syndrome as a widespread issue affecting women’s confidence, leadership style, and career progression. Coaches identified various internal and external factors contributing to the imposter syndrome, including societal expectations and workplace dynamics. Effective coaching strategies, such as fostering self-advocacy, resilience, and reframing self-perceptions, have been found to help mitigate these effects and enable women to fully embrace their leadership potential. This study contributes to the literature by providing insights into the practical applications of executive coaching in addressing imposter syndrome, underscoring its potential as a transformative tool in developing women leaders. Recommendations for organisations include integrating executive coaching into leadership development programmes to promote gender equality in corporate leadership.
The experiences of employee well-being in the implementation of digital transformation in banking
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Mayeza, Zukiswa; Magida, Ayanda
Increasing reliance on digital tools in South African financial institutions, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, has raised significant concerns about the well-being and mental health of bank employees. As organisations progressively integrate digital tools—including remote work, advanced technologies, automation, and artificial intelligence—there is a growing concern regarding the psychological impacts on employees. This study explores how technological changes lead to work-related stress, anxiety, and burnout, particularly considering South Africa's unique socioeconomic and digital landscape. It is crucial to understand how these factors affect employees' well-being and find ways to mitigate them. The research involved conducting qualitative interviews with five participants from the South African bank, Bank A. The study employed thematic analysis to uncover important themes related to the psychological effects of digital transformation. The results indicate that employees face significant challenges, including technostress, digital burnout, and an imbalance between work and personal life. Furthermore, the report highlights several coping strategies employees utilise, such as mindfulness practices and family support, while emphasising the essential role of organisational support in alleviating these challenges. This study contributes to the limited research on employee well-being amid digital transformation, particularly in South Africa. The findings provide practical recommendations for organisations that foster healthier work environments through enhanced mental health support, flexible working hours, and wellness initiatives. Considering the rapid pace of digital change, this research underscores the necessity of a balanced strategy that values technological progress and employee well-being to ensure sustainable success for organisations. Moreover, this study advocates for a comprehensive approach that is not solely focused on technologies but also considers colleagues and the broader business context.
Electricity Infrastructure Climate Change Impact Resilience Techniques – A Case Study of the South African Metropolitan Municipalities
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Matshonyonge, Busisiwe Charlotte; Semelane, Stanley
The South African electricity sector faces several challenges which compromise the reliability and stability of municipal electricity service delivery. Factors such as theft, vandalism, lack of investment, load shedding and extreme weather events emanating from climate change impacts, threaten the resilience of electricity infrastructure. The study undertook an investigation to understand the impact of climate change on electricity infrastructure throughout metropolitan municipalities in South Africa. This is imperative to progress the efforts to develop electricity infrastructure resilience techniques. The South African electricity infrastructure is vulnerable to damage and failure due to climate change impacts and human factors such as lack of appropriate maintenance practices, inadequate asset planning, and poor management. These factors threaten the longevity and reliability of electricity service delivery across metropolitan municipalities. A qualitative approach was employed to collect data concerning the current state of electricity infrastructure, and the impact of climate change events and human factors thereupon. The data sample was selected from the metropolitan municipalities in South Africa. Semi-structured, virtually recorded interviews were carried out, with the support of an interview guide which was prepared prior to the interviews. The study findings present the most common challenges faced by metropolitan municipalities as far as the operation and maintenance of electricity distribution infrastructure is concerned. The recurrence of several climate-related incidents and manmade challenges are outlined, and possible solutions to build resilience are proposed. This study found that metropolitan municipalities are aware of the compounding effect of climate change and anthropogenic issues such as infrastructure sabotage and neglect. The key finding showed that the endeavour to enhance the electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure must follow a holistic approach that considers interlinkages between technical performance, financial constraints, human behaviour, and the unpredictability of climate change events. iii As such, holistic suitable electricity infrastructure resilience techniques are proposed as they are fundamental to managing and improving electricity infrastructure resilience. The proposed suitable electricity infrastructure climate change resilience techniques include: improving the management of existing electricity infrastructure, the prioritisation and allocation of dedicated electricity infrastructure maintenance budgets, accelerated implementation of metropolitan municipalities’ existing climate change response strategies, investment into climate impact early warning systems at the municipal level, and an innovative and proactive approach to the development of new electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure. Furthermore, the report concludes with recommendations and suggestions for further research that would enhance metropolitan municipalities' electricity infrastructure resilience against climate change impact.

3. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

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