1. METAVERSE: A NEW FRONTIER FOR RETAIL BRANDING (CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES & FUTURE DIRECTIONS)
Authors: Dr. SOUVIK ROY1, Dr. DENNIS JOSEPH2 and Dr. D. SARAVANAN3
Abstract
Since virtual marketplaces, blockchain-based transactions, and decentralized retail ecosystems are identified as emerging trends shaping the future of retail (Miller et al., 2021) metaverse platform, as a nascent amalgamation of virtual and augmented realities, presents a fascinating landscape for retailers to reinvent their branding strategies and create a strong customer-centric bond. Beyond simply selling products, brands can leverage the metaverse's immersive and interactive nature to forge deeper connections with their customers, tell compelling stories, and forge unprecedented brand experiences. However, metaverse being a relatively new concept also poises challenges to the traditional retailing strategies, prompting retailers to adapt to new models. Hence, this qualitative literature review delves into the potential impact, challenges and future application directions of the metaverse on branding from a retail perspective, drawing upon relevant academic references to illuminate this transformative space.
Keywords: Metaverse, Retail Branding, Technological Innovation.
2. INSIDER TRADING IN EMERGING ECONOMY AND AN EFFECTIVE ROADMAP: CASES IN INDIA
Authors: Dr. AMEYA PATIL1, Dr. MAHESH KUMAR2, Dr. RAHUL B. HIREMATH3, Dr. ANKITA BHATT4 and Dr. RAKESH YADAV5
Abstract
This research paper explores the intersection of trauma and memory in feminism through the lens of illness and societal rejection, focusing on Sudha Murthy’s Mahashweta and Shashi Deshpande’s The Binding Vine. Both novels present deeply personal and gendered experiences of trauma, wherein illness, societal stigma, and sexual violence marginalize the protagonists, leaving lasting emotional scars. In Mahashweta, Anupama, the protagonist, is diagnosed with leukoderma, a condition that subjects her to severe ostracization by her husband and society. Her journey from being rejected due to her illness to regaining her self-worth and autonomy mirrors the larger feminist critique of how women’s bodies are policed and stigmatized by societal norms. In The Binding Vine, alongside the trauma of sexual violence suffered by Kalpana and the emotional repression of Mira, Urmi’s grief over the loss of her infant daughter becomes a central emotional focus. Her trauma, marked by profound loss and mourning, intertwines with her search for meaning, creating a connection between personal suffering and collective female experiences of trauma. This study uses feminist trauma theory to analyze how memory and trauma are interconnected, shaping the female characters' identities, relationships, and healing processes. The paper also examines how these novels reflect societal structures that worsen women’s suffering through silence and erasure, highlighting the emotional and physical impacts of illness, violence, and societal rejection. The research aims to show how these works critique patriarchal oppression while illustrating the resilience of women in the face of trauma.
Keywords: Grief, Patriarchal Oppression, Sudha Murthy, Shashi Deshpande.
3. FRAGMENTS OF MEMORY: TRAUMA, MEMORY, FEMININE EXPERIENCE IN SUDHA MURTHY’S MAHASHWETA AND SHASHI DESHPANDE’S THE BINDING VINE
Authors: RITU KALRA1 and Dr. SHIVANI VASHIST2
Abstract
Smooth functioning of financial markets is essential for the development of the economy, given the importance of finance for corporates. However, activities like Insider trading dampen the trust of investors. Insider trading refers to trading of a financial security by an insider person who has access to material, nonpublic, confidential information about the security. Majority of the countries around the world, prohibit insider trading. In India, SEBI, the regulator of capital markets makes and amend laws related to Insider trading, investigates related cases and penalizes concerned entities. This research paper discusses the cases dealt by SEBI in relation to insider trading. After the discussion, the authors find that though SEBI has been performing its functions seriously, there are certain loopholes in the system which have allowed the violators of Insider trading norms to get away. Moreover, SAT has revoked SEBI’s orders on various case related to insider trading. The researchers suggest several measures to counter insider trading such as better co-ordination between investigating agencies, effective corporate whistle blower policy ensuring safeguards for whistle blowers and assimilation of certain regulations from developed markets such as USA. Finally, the researchers advocate a road map that can be useful for regulators and policy makers to curb insider trading cases, and also effectively deal with such cases when they arise.
Keywords: Insider, Insider Trading, Price Sensitive Information, Connected person, SEBI, SAT, UPSI.
4. AN ANALYSIS OF FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR GROWTH OF FRENCH ECONOMY
Authors:
Dr. VIVEK SINGH1, CHEHEL GADA2, ISHAN JAIN3, JENIL SAVALIYA4, KESHUBH TURKAHIA5, MERU SHAH6, MOKSH SHAH7 and SANIDHYA RANKA8
Abstract
Using the PESTEL paradigm, this study offers a thorough examination of France, looking at the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal aspects that affect the business climate and overall trade of the nation. This study examines the regulatory framework and political stability of France though political and policy developments. Economic factors such as economic growth, unemployment rates and fiscal policies are being analyzed to understand their impact on market dynamics and economic health. Presence of France in the global tech arena is highlighted as the technological landscape is being studied in terms of innovation, digital transformation, and infrastructural development. The evaluation of environmental variables centers on France's policies regarding climate change, sustainability, and the impact these policies have on enterprises and industries. In order to comprehend the ramifications of labor laws, regulatory frameworks, and compliance requirements for enterprises operating in France, the legal environment is analyzed. Additionally, the project delves into France’s trade dynamics, analyzing the direction of its trade flows and the composition of its exports and imports. By integrating the PESTEL framework with an analysis of trade direction and composition, this project aims to provide a holistic understanding of how various external factors influence France’s economic environment and its position in the global marketplace.
Keywords: France, Economic Factors, PESTLE, Technological Landscape, Legal Aspects.
5. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF REITs AND InvITs IN INDIA: EVALUATING RISK-ADJUSTED PERFORMANCE
Authors: SANSKRITI RAJVANSHI1, MADHAV CHHABRA2, AMIT BATHIA3*, Dr. MUKUND MADHAV TRIPATHI4 and JAGABANDHU PADHY5
Abstract
This study conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of three Indian Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and three Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), assessing their performance against traditional market benchmarks—NIFTY 50 and NIFTY REITs & InvITs Index. Spanning July 2021 to December 2024, the research employs key financial metrics including CAGR, Sharpe Ratio, Treynor Ratio, Jensen’s Alpha, Beta, Sortino Ratio, and Maximum Drawdown across daily, quarterly, and semi-annual intervals. The findings reveal that while REITs and InvITs underperform in capital appreciation relative to NIFTY 50, they offer superior dividend yields and exhibit lower volatility, making them attractive for income-focused and risk-averse investors. Risk-adjusted return metrics suggest mixed outcomes—some instruments deliver defensive benefits, while others fail to outperform benchmarks. Dividend yield analysis further highlights substantial income advantages over equity indices, though sustainability remains a concern for certain InvITs. Overall, REITs and InvITs emerge as viable diversification tools within Indian portfolios, particularly for investors seeking stable income with moderate risk exposure. However, their future role hinges on factors like market liquidity, macroeconomic conditions, and regulatory evolution.
Keywords: REITs, InvITs, Risk-Return Analysis, Benchmark Comparison, Sharpe Ratio.
6. UNVEILING THE HIDDEN PATTERNS IN GREEN CRYPTOCURRENCIES: A TIME-SERIES CLUSTERING APPROACH TOWARDS UNDERSTANDING THE PRICE DYNAMICS
Authors: Dr. RAJIB BHATTACHARYA1, Dr. SHUVASHISH ROY2, ROKHSHANA PARVEEN3, Dr. JEET MUKHERJEE4 and MD TUHIN RANA5
Abstract
Purpose: The increasing environmental concerns associated with traditional cryptocurrencies led to a growing interest in eco-friendly alternatives and green cryptocurrencies, which utilize energy-efficient consensus mechanisms, offer a sustainable solution to this problem. This research focuses on interconnectedness of price movements of the selected six popular green cryptocurrencies i.e. Cardano (ADA), Algorand (ALG), Solana (SOL), Chia (XCH), Stellar Lumens (XLM), and Nano (XNO). The primary objective is to investigate the non linear relationships and patterns within the price time series of green cryptocurrencies in order to study which green cryptocurrency performs best under 2 cluster and 3 cluster models by following the time series clustering techniques under Dynamic Time Warping (DTW). Design/methodology/approach: Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) is the methodology usedfor flexible alignment of time series. By applying DTW to the price data of the six green cryptocurrencies, we aim to uncover hidden patterns and similarities that may not be apparent through traditional linear analysis. The research methodology involves several steps. Firstly, the historical price data for each cryptocurrency is collected and pre-processed. Secondly, DTW is employed to calculate pairwise distances between the time series, revealing the degree of similarity and dissimilarity among them. Thirdly, clustering of price series of selected cryptocurrencies is done for efficient creation of portfolios with green cryptocurrencies.This study has been carried out on the basis of secondary data. Day-end closing prices of the selected six green cryptocurrencies have been collected from 03rd May 2021 to 10th August 2024 i.e. that longest time window during which prices for all the selected green cryptocurrencies were available at finance.yahoo.com up to 10th August 2024. Findings: This study has explored the potential of time series clustering techniques to analyse and categorize green cryptocurrencies based on their historical price and volume data. Out of 2-Clusters and 3-Clusters methodology,3- Clusters Hierarchical methodology is giving the better results where the study reflects Solana (SOL) and Chia (XCH) can be included in a portfolio of cryptocurrencies with Cardano (ADA), Algorand (ALG), Stellar Lumens (XLM), and Nano (XNO) and they are forming the best clusters of green cryptocurrencies. Originality/value: Dynamic Data Warping along with the Time Series Clusters methodology is first used in the study of green cryptocurrencies where by studying the non-linear relationships and patterns, investors can make informed decisions and mitigate risks. Additionally, policymakers can leverage these insights to formulate effective regulatory frameworks that promote the sustainable growth of the cryptocurrency industry.
Keywords: Green Cryptocurrencies; Dynamic Time Warping; Historical Prices; Non-Linear Relationships; Time Series Clustering.
7. THE MEDIATING IMPACT OF INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CORPORATE GOVERNANCE & FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: A STUDY OF INDIAN CONSTRUCTION AND ENERGY SECTOR COMPANIES
Authors: PANKAJ ANAND1*, JITENDRA KUMAR2, HARISHANKAR VIDYARTHI3 and SUBHADEEP MUKHERJEE4
Abstract
Purpose: The present study investigates the moderating impact of Intellectual capital over the association between corporate governance and Firm performance among the listed Indian construction and energy firms. Design/methodology/approach: The current study employs data of 45 Indian construction and energy sector companies from 2014 to 2021. Panel Corrected Standard Error regression analysis is employed to analyse the relationship. Findings: The current research indicates that corporate governance does not significantly impact firm performance, while Intellectual capital is proven to have a substantial impact over firm performance. However moderating impact of Intellectual capital on corporate governance – firm performance is insignificant. Originality/Value: The present study extensively examines how Intellectual capital (IC) mediates the association among corporate governance and firm performance in listed Indian construction and energy firms.
Keywords: Intellectual Capital, Corporate Governance, Firm Performance, Construction, Energy.
8. BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS: AN EXTENSIVE ANALYSIS OF WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURIAL EMPOWERMENT
Authors: DURGA. DHAN1 and Dr. S.S. SHANTHAKUMARI2
Abstract
Women's participation in entrepreneurship has become a major driving force, for transformation within the corporate environment, inspiring development and emerging as a major force and innovation. This systematic literature review paper examines women's empowerment, women's entrepreneurship, sustainability barriers, and barriers to growth in a global context. This thorough analysis of the literature looks at the complex relationship between women's empowerment and entrepreneurship, this examination reveals the barriers to achieving resilient and sustainable progress. It emphasises the importance of understanding notions like autonomy and empowerment for genuine advancement and the discriminatory conventions that affect women globally. The study investigates the complex idea of women's empowerment, emphasizing the pursuit of equal opportunities, rights, and access to resources. It positions women’s entrepreneurship as a critical driver of economic development, analyzing the challenges women face and the motivating factors that propel them to embark on entrepreneurial ventures. Obstacles to sustainability, such as gender norms, financial constraints, a lack of networks, and barriers to expansion, such as outmoded technology and legal complications, are explored.
Keywords: Women Empowerment, Women Entrepreneurship, Economic Development, Barriers to Sustainability, Barriers to Growth.