Economics and Business Journal (ECBIS)

Civil Servants' Interpretation of Gold Investment and Trading (Case Study of Civil Servants in South Sulawesi Province)

Dinah Diyanah Burhan — 2025-12-15

This study aims to analyze the interpretations, behaviors, and preferences of gold investment among civil servants (PNS) of the South Sulawesi Provincial Government in facing economic volatility and inflation. Using a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach, this study collected data through in-depth interviews with 13 informants consisting of active civil servants, retirees, and financial practitioners, supported by secondary data analysis. The results show that PNS interpretations of gold are multidimensional, namely as an effective life buffer and hedge against inflation, as well as an instrument for fulfilling cultural obligations (uang panai' and siri'). This study found a transformation in investment behavior from gold jewelry to gold bars and digital savings, driven by mental accounting mechanisms through payroll deduction systems to discipline spending. In conclusion, the local culture of Bugis-Makassar interacts dynamically with modern financial literacy, creating a hybrid investment pattern supported by sharia compliance and the integration of regional banking technology.

Understanding Accounting Practices in Culinary MSMEs In The Tanjung Bunga Metro Area, Makassar City

Andi Mulia Saleh — 2025-12-15

The focus of research shifts from the dominance of positivism to a non-positivistic approach that places meaning, interpretation, and social construction at the center of analysis. One of the main approaches within this paradigm is Grounded Theory Research (GTR), a qualitative method developed by Glaser and Strauss (1967) to build empirically data-based theory through a rigorous inductive process. In the accounting context, GTR becomes increasingly relevant because reporting practices, accountability, and financial decision-making cannot be understood solely through objective measurements, but rather through social interactions, organizational values, and the interpretations of the actors involved (Ahrens & Chapman, 2006). This article aims to examine the role and relevance of GTR in modern accounting research by highlighting its philosophical foundations, methodological procedures, and contributions to the development of practice-based accounting theory. Through a systematic literature review, it is found that GTR has the ability to uncover the social dynamics that shape accounting practices such as accountability, ethics, managerial control, and institutional legitimacy that have previously been overlooked by positivistic approaches (Charmaz, 2006; Bryant & Charmaz, 2007). GTR has also proven relevant in the context of changing reporting systems, accounting digitalization, and the integration of sustainability principles such as ESG, where meaning, professional identity, and interpretive processes are dominant elements (Adams & Larrinaga, 2019). The study's findings confirm that GTR not only offers a systematic method for data collection and analysis, but also provides a more reflective, context-sensitive epistemological framework capable of generating substantive theory that is truly rooted in organizational reality. Thus, GTR is a powerful methodological alternative in enriching accounting knowledge, while providing a deeper understanding of how accounting practices are executed, negotiated, and interpreted in everyday organizational life.

The Influence of Free Shipping and Online Customer Reviews on the Shopee Platform on Purchasing Decisions of Students of the Faculty of Economics, Nias University

Reyan Janefata Zebua — 2025-12-20

This study investigates the role of acquisition premiums in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and their impact on shareholder wealth, focusing on five major Indian deals in pharmaceuticals, retail, banking, steel, and renewable energy sectors. Potential synergies often justify acquisition premiums ranging from approximately 15% to 40% above target companies’ market values. However, market responses suggest that such premiums may not consistently result in value creation for acquiring firms' shareholders. Empirical findings reveal mixed outcomes: Sun Pharma’s acquisition of Ranbaxy led to a 9.8% share price increase within five days, while Tata Steel’s high-premium acquisition of Bhushan Steel saw only a 1.7% gain. In contrast, deals like Reliance–Future Retail and Tata Power–Welspun Power showed minimal or negative returns, despite sizable premiums. These patterns indicate that premium size alone is not a reliable predictor of post-deal shareholder wealth creation. The study concludes that M&A success depends more on strategic fit, market timing, and sectoral dynamics than on the premium offered. This analysis contributes to the broader M&A discourse by offering evidence-based insights into how premium valuations can either maximise or dilute shareholder value, aiding investors, corporate strategists, and policy analysts in deal assessment.

Analysis of Production Optimization Strategy to Increase The Capacity of Kamumu Kimpul Chips at UD. Sona Gunungsitoli Idanoi

Yantonius Harefa — 2025-12-20

The fast food industry continues to grow as the public's need for practical products, including Kamumu Kimpul chips, increases. However, small business actors such as UD. Sona in Gunungsitoli Idanoi faces obstacles in production due to the use of traditional methods, limited equipment, and lack of optimal management. This condition has an impact on delays in meeting demand, increasing production costs, and declining competitiveness. Therefore, a production optimization strategy is needed to improve product capacity, efficiency, and quality. This study aims to analyze the production optimization strategy implemented by UD. Sona, formulate a capacity building strategy, as well as identify obstacles and solutions that can be done. The results of the research are expected to be practically useful for business actors in production management, as well as make a theoretical contribution to the development of production management science in MSMEs. The research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data was obtained through interviews with owners, employees, and customers, supplemented by observation and documentation. Data analysis is carried out through reduction, presentation, and inductive conclusions, so as to be able to describe the real conditions of the business and develop the right optimization strategy. The results of the study show that UD. Sona has made efforts such as setting up production flows and scheduling planning. However, limited machinery, unstable supply of raw materials, and marketing that has not been maximized are still obstacles. Consumers rate the product as good quality, but its availability has not been consistent. Suggested strategies include the implementation of lean production, improvement of inventory management, and the use of production technology

The Influence of Brand Image on Online Purchase Decisions for Scarlett Students of The Faculty of Economics, University of Nias

Diana Novita Baene — 2025-12-21

This research aims to examine and analyze the influence of brand image on the purchasing decisions of students at the Faculty of Economics, Nias University, in the context of online shopping. The background of this study stems from the rapid growth of e-commerce in Indonesia, which has significantly changed consumer shopping behavior, particularly among students who are highly adaptive to digital technology. In online shopping situations, where consumers cannot physically assess the product, brand image becomes one of the main factors influencing consumer trust, perceived quality, and confidence in making purchasing decisions. The type of research employed is quantitative research with a survey approach. The study population consisted of 1,959 active students of the Faculty of Economics, Nias University, with a sample of 95 respondents determined using the Slovin formula. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire covering brand image indicators (strength, favorability, and uniqueness of brand association) as well as purchasing decision indicators (problem recognition, information search, evaluation of alternatives, purchase decision, and post-purchase behavior). The data were analyzed using validity and reliability tests, simple linear regression analysis, t-test, and determination test with the aid of SPSS software. The results of the study indicate that brand image has a positive and significant effect on students' purchasing decisions in online shopping. This finding implies that the stronger the brand image, the higher the tendency of students to make online purchases. Therefore, companies or online businesses need to develop and strengthen their brand image through consistent marketing communication strategies, clear product information, and credible brand reputation to increase consumer loyalty and purchase intention.

Analysis of Employee Performance with Employee Engagement as a Mediating Variable at BPR Syariah PNM Mentari

Muhammad Haikal — 2025-12-22

This study examines the effects of Mindset, Togetherness, and Result Oriented on Employee Performance, with Employee Engagement as a mediating variable, in BPR Syariah PNM Mentari. The research is conducted in a micro–Islamic banking context that emphasizes efficiency, service quality, and regulatory compliance, and aims to clarify the contribution of these behavioral and organizational constructs to employee outcomes. A quantitative survey design was used, with data gathered via a structured questionnaire that operationalized the constructs. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test direct and indirect relationships. The results reveal that (1) Result Oriented has a positive and significant effect on Employee Performance, confirming that goal clarity and disciplined execution lead to better performance; (2) Mindset does not have a direct effect on performance, but its effect through Employee Engagement is significant, indicating that Mindset influences performance only when employees are engaged; (3) Employee Engagement mediates the effect of Result Oriented on performance, improving execution; and (4) Togetherness has no direct or indirect effect on performance, suggesting that collaboration alone does not drive performance without clear goals and engagement.

Consumer Purchase Decision Making Behavior of Fashion Products on Shopee in Surabaya City

Viona Rosalinda Dwi Putri — 2025-12-22

This study aims to analyze the role of consumer trust in mediating the effects of affiliate marketing and online customer ratings on purchase decisions for fashion products among Shopee users in Surabaya. A quantitative approach was used in this research, with data collected through questionnaires from 100 Shopee users in Surabaya. The data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method to examine the direct and mediating relationships between the variables: affiliate marketing, online customer ratings, consumer trust, and purchase decisions. Validity and reliability tests of the instruments were also performed to ensure the accuracy of the variable measurements in this research model.The findings indicate that affiliate marketing does not significantly drive consumer purchase decisions. However, consumer trust plays a key role in mediating the relationship between affiliate marketing and purchase decisions. Without trust, affiliate marketing promotions have limited influence. Additionally, online customer ratings positively influence purchase decisions, and consumer trust is crucial in mediating the relationship between online customer ratings and purchase decisions. Positive ratings from other customers enhance trust in both the product and the seller.