Publication Search

63,163 articles from 507 journals · 1,579 citations tracked

Showing 1-20 of 498

Analytics

Aditya Wardana; Bintis Ti’anatud Diniati; Rizza Tiaratu; Erika Dwi Maretya Nur Utami; Wildan Fathul Faza

JURNAL EKONOMI BISNIS DAN MANAJEMEN (JISE) 2026 CV. ALIM'SPUBLISHING

The stock market is a place to buy shares for profit. In Indonesia, energy stocks are highly unpredictable because global commodity prices change constantly. This study examines what affected energy stock returns in 2024, focusing on trading volume, price swings, company profits, and cash flow. Using financial reports and statistical analysis, all these factors were tested together and individually. The results show that combined, all these factors do affect stock returns. However, when looked at one by one, only the company's net profit truly matters to investors. On the other hand, busy trading, daily price swings, and cash flow have no impact at all. In fact, all the factors studied only account for 14% of stock return movements, while the remaining 86% is driven by other outside forces. In conclusion, for those looking to invest in energy stocks, the most important thing to watch is the company's ability to generate net profit, rather than just looking at how busy daily transactions are in the market.

Lestari Wulandari S; Ferinandus Leonardo Snanfi; Rif’iy Qomarrullah; Muhamad Thoif; Milcha H. Tammubua

Jurnal Pelayanan dan Pengabdian Masyarakat Indonesia (JPPMI) 2026 Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Administrasi Yappi Makassar

The rapid growth of e-commerce among university students has provided greater convenience in conducting digital transactions. However, it has also created various challenges, including online fraud, discrepancies between advertised and delivered products, delayed shipments, and limited understanding of consumer rights and dispute resolution mechanisms. This community service program aimed to enhance legal literacy and increase students’ awareness of consumer protection in electronic transactions, particularly within the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) of Yapis University Papua. The program employed an educational-participatory approach through counseling sessions, interactive discussions, case simulations, and participant comprehension evaluations. The materials covered consumer rights and obligations, common violations in electronic transactions, complaint procedures on e-commerce platforms, and non-litigation dispute resolution mechanisms. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in students’ understanding of consumer protection laws, their ability to identify violations of consumer rights, and their knowledge of appropriate actions when disputes arise in online shopping transactions. Furthermore, participants showed strong engagement throughout the activities and were able to apply their knowledge effectively during case simulations. The program contributed to the development of more critical, informed, responsible, and legally aware digital consumers who are better prepared to engage safely and confidently in e-commerce activities.

Mariyatul Kiftiyah; Kafidin Muzakki

JURNAL EKONOMI BISNIS DAN MANAJEMEN (JISE) 2026 CV. ALIM'SPUBLISHING

This study examines the transformation of financial management through the implementation of digital accounting in PPOB (Payment Point Online Bank) businesses, which still face manual recording problems such as input errors, delayed reconciliations, and data discrepancies. The research used a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach involving PPOB agents in Sidoarjo. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings show that digital accounting significantly improves operational efficiency through automated transaction recording, real-time data integration, and faster as well as more accurate reconciliation processes. In addition, features such as automatic validation, API integration, and audit trails help minimize recording errors and maintain data consistency. The implementation of digital accounting also supports transparency and improves the quality of financial information used in decision-making. Although challenges remain regarding agents’ technological understanding and infrastructure readiness, overall implementation has provided positive impacts on financial management effectiveness and business operations in PPOB services, making processes more efficient, accurate, and reliable.

Choiriyah Choiriyah; Dwi Noviani; Dwinda Fatimah Ishaq; Jordy Hairul Rafli

Jurnal Pelayanan dan Pengabdian Masyarakat Indonesia (JPPMI) 2026 Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Administrasi Yappi Makassar

 This community service activity aimed to improve students’ Islamic banking literacy through an experiential learning approach based on a fiqh muamalah workshop at Latansa Darussalam Islamic Boarding School, Palembang. The activity involved 100 participants consisting of students and teachers as an effort to strengthen understanding of Islamic economic and banking principles. The methods used in the activity included lectures, discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and simulations of sharia transaction practices, enabling participants not only to gain theoretical understanding but also practical experience in implementing sharia concepts. The evaluation was conducted using pre-test and post-test instruments in the form of multiple-choice questions and Likert scales to measure participants’ level of understanding before and after the activity. The evaluation results showed an increase in the participants’ average score from 55 to 82, with a gain score of 0.6, which falls into the moderate to high category. These findings indicate that an experience-based learning approach is effective in improving conceptual and practical understanding related to Islamic economics and is recommended for broader implementation in Islamic educational institutions.

Hanifa Sri Nuryani; Edi Irawan

Karya Nyata : Jurnal Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Accountability in preparing financial reports is a crucial instrument for the sustainability of business entities, because inaccurate financial data management can hinder decision-making and harm business performance in the future. For MSME actors in the PKK Tanggamus community, strengthening financial reporting competence is an urgent need so they can map expenditure structures, record income, calculate profit, and evaluate business development periodically. This community service activity aims to improve participants’ financial discipline, particularly in separating personal assets, business capital, and gross profit, while introducing accessible office technology. The training focused on optimizing LibreOffice Calc as an alternative to Microsoft Excel with similar functions for creating transaction tables, cost recapitulations, and simple financial reports. The activity method included material presentation, software demonstrations, report preparation practice, and interactive discussions based on participants’ business needs. Training results showed high enthusiasm, improved understanding, and readiness to use LibreOffice Calc as a more organized, transparent, and sustainable financial recording tool. Thus, this activity provides practical contributions to building an accountable financial administration culture for community-based MSMEs.

Mega Nanda Sapitri; Meilanta Rantina

DHARMA EKONOMI 2026 sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Dharmaputra Semarang

This research aims to discuss online marketing strategies and service quality as well as their impact on post-pandemic cosmetic sales at the Abigail Shop, Sintang Regency. This study applies a qualitative-descriptive approach. Data collection was carried out through interviews, observation and analysis of various documents. Subjects consist of business owners, employees and customers. The validity of the data was tested through Technical Triangulation. Research findings show that Abigail Store's use of Instagram as a digital marketing tool is effective in increasing market reach and attracting customer interest with various creative content, including photos, videos, promotions and testimonials from customers. Apart from that, the direct message and WhatsApp features function to facilitate communication and transactions between sellers and buyers. This research also confirms that high service quality is directly related to customer satisfaction which then results in the frequency of repeat purchases. The increase in sales of Toko Abigail's cosmetic products after the pandemic can be attributed to an effective combination of digital marketing strategies and consistent, high-quality service standards. This study aims to be a reference for business owners in optimizing marketing methods through digital media, while maintaining service quality amidst the rapid development of information technology.

Riswanto Riswanto; Khairul Khairul; Cut Nizma; Diena Fadhilah; Jasa Ginting

Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in national economic growth, particularly in creating employment opportunities and improving community welfare. However, many MSME actors still face challenges in financial management due to limited financial literacy and inadequate understanding of simple accounting practices. Tenank Cafe Medan is one of the culinary businesses with strong development potential, yet it continues to experience difficulties in transaction recording, cash flow management, and preparing simple financial reports, which may affect business sustainability and operational effectiveness. This Community Partnership Independent Service Program (PMKM) aims to improve the financial literacy of business partners in supporting sustainable business development. The implementation methods included observation, socialization, training, direct practice, and mentoring activities focused on business financial management and transaction recording. The results of the program indicate an increase in the partner’s understanding of financial management, transaction recording, and the preparation of simple profit and loss reports. In addition, the partner has started to separate business finances from personal finances. Therefore, this activity provides a positive contribution toward strengthening business management practices and supporting the sustainability and long-term development of Tenank Cafe Medan.

Riswanto Riswanto; Khairul Khairul; Cut Nizma; Diena Fadhilah; Jasa Ginting

Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in national economic growth, particularly in creating employment opportunities and improving community welfare. However, many MSME actors still face challenges in financial management due to limited financial literacy and inadequate understanding of simple accounting practices. Tenank Cafe Medan is one of the culinary businesses with strong development potential, yet it continues to experience difficulties in transaction recording, cash flow management, and preparing simple financial reports, which may affect business sustainability and operational effectiveness. This Community Partnership Independent Service Program (PMKM) aims to improve the financial literacy of business partners in supporting sustainable business development. The implementation methods included observation, socialization, training, direct practice, and mentoring activities focused on business financial management and transaction recording. The results of the program indicate an increase in the partner’s understanding of financial management, transaction recording, and the preparation of simple profit and loss reports. In addition, the partner has started to separate business finances from personal finances. Therefore, this activity provides a positive contribution toward strengthening business management practices and supporting the sustainability and long-term development of Tenank Cafe Medan.

Muhammad Zuardi; Sally Maya Vida; Raina Rosanti; Sabarita Tarigan; Heddy Heddy

Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in supporting national economic growth, particularly in the culinary sector. However, many MSME entrepreneurs still face challenges in financial management due to the lack of proper implementation of simple accounting systems. Tenank Cafe Medan is one of the culinary businesses with strong growth potential, yet it continues to experience difficulties in transaction recording, cash flow management, and the preparation of simple financial statements, which affect the quality of business services. Therefore, this Community Partnership Independent Service Program (PMKM) aims to provide assistance in simple accounting practices to improve service quality at Tenank Cafe Medan. The program was implemented through observation, socialization, training, direct practice, and mentoring activities. The materials included transaction recording, cash book preparation, simple income statements, and cash flow management. The results show an improvement in the partner’s understanding and ability to manage finances systematically. Better financial management has also contributed to improving operational management and customer service quality. Thus, this program positively supports business management strengthening and service quality improvement at Tenank Cafe Medan.

Muhammad Zuardi; Sally Maya Vida; Raina Rosanti; Sabarita Tarigan; Heddy Heddy

Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in supporting national economic growth, particularly in the culinary sector. However, many MSME entrepreneurs still face challenges in financial management due to the lack of proper implementation of simple accounting systems. Tenank Cafe Medan is one of the culinary businesses with strong growth potential, yet it continues to experience difficulties in transaction recording, cash flow management, and the preparation of simple financial statements, which affect the quality of business services. Therefore, this Community Partnership Independent Service Program (PMKM) aims to provide assistance in simple accounting practices to improve service quality at Tenank Cafe Medan. The program was implemented through observation, socialization, training, direct practice, and mentoring activities. The materials included transaction recording, cash book preparation, simple income statements, and cash flow management. The results show an improvement in the partner’s understanding and ability to manage finances systematically. Better financial management has also contributed to improving operational management and customer service quality. Thus, this program positively supports business management strengthening and service quality improvement at Tenank Cafe Medan.

Tesar Librian Priyo Susilo; I Gusti Ngurah Agung Aditya Pramana

Jurnal Manajemen Riset Inovasi 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

The development of digital technology and internet penetration are driving changes in consumer behavior and demanding that MSMEs not only adapt but also understand the operational motives and marketing channel integration strategies to face competition in the digital era. This study aims to examine the operational motives and technical adaptation processes of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bali in integrating online and offline marketing channels through an omnichannel strategy to respond to intense market competition in the digital era. This descriptive qualitative research uses a multiple case study approach in three different MSME sectors: goods maintenance services, creative services, and fashion retail. Data collection was conducted through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and a review of digital activities, then analyzed through single-case and cross-case stages. The results show that MSMEs optimize digital channels as instruments to expand reach and trigger consumer emotional engagement through a visual storytelling approach, while physical stores are crucially maintained as points of sensory validation. Functional integration has been proven to accommodate the shift in consumer behavior towards a hybrid decision-making pattern. In this pattern, consumers conduct information searches and initial evaluations online, but tend to shift to offline interactions to validate quality and finalize transactions to minimize purchase risk. In conclusion, cross-channel operational synergy has proven essential in boosting the competitive advantage of MSMEs.

Eman Suherman; Iwan Setiawan

Jurnal Inovasi Ekonomi Syariah dan Akuntansi 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

The development of digital technology has encouraged the transformation of the financial sector through the emergence of Sharia financial technology (fintech) as a financial service based on Islamic principles that emphasize justice, transparency, and public benefit (maslahah). The presence of various Sharia fintech products such as Sharia peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, Sharia crowdfunding, Sharia E-wallets, and digital ZISWAF (zakat, infaq, alms, and waqf) services is considered capable of increasing financial inclusion in Indonesia, especially for unbanked communities and MSMEs that have limited access to formal financial services. This study aims to analyze the innovation of Sharia fintech products, their role in increasing financial inclusion, and their conformity with the perspective of Islamic Economic Law. This research uses a qualitative method with a library research approach through collecting data from scientific journals, DSN-MUI fatwas, OJK and Bank Indonesia regulations, as well as various literature related to Sharia fintech published within the last five years. The data analysis technique was carried out descriptively and analytically by examining the concepts, implementation, and regulations of Sharia fintech in Indonesia. The results of the study indicate that Sharia fintech has a strategic role in expanding public access to financial services through the digitalization of financing, payments, and Islamic social fund collection. In addition to increasing Islamic financial inclusion and literacy, Sharia fintech also helps reduce transaction costs, facilitate MSME financing access, and expand the distribution of financial services to remote areas. From a Sharia perspective, the operation of Sharia fintech must continue to adhere to DSN-MUI fatwas and maqashid sharia principles in order to avoid elements of riba, gharar, and maisir and to create justice and public benefit for society. Therefore, Sharia fintech has a great opportunity to support the development of an inclusive and sustainable Islamic digital economy in Indonesia, although strengthening regulations, Sharia supervision, public education, and product innovation based on community needs are still required.

Irkhamilatul Faizah; Naily El Muna; Ashlihah Ashlihah

Jurnal Inovasi Ekonomi Syariah dan Akuntansi 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This study aims to understand the role of E-Commerce in building customer loyalty, explain the process of loyalty formation, and assess how customers perceive service quality in relation to loyalty, using the GoFood service in Jombang as a case study. The rapid growth of online food delivery services has intensified competition, making customer loyalty a critical factor for sustainability. Employing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 30 GoFood customers and several drivers in the Jombang area. The findings reveal that E-Commerce platforms significantly enhance loyalty through user-friendly application interfaces, supporting features (such as live tracking, history, and digital payments), and beneficial promotions. The loyalty formation process occurs gradually through consistent positive experiences, moving from customer satisfaction to trust, and ultimately to habitual use. Crucially, the quality of driver services—including politeness, effective communication, punctuality, and order accuracy—emerged as a key determinant of customer comfort and repeat orders. This study implies that for E-Commerce platforms to maintain a competitive edge, strategies must integrate digital convenience with consistently reliable human interactions. The research contributes empirical insights from a semi-urban Indonesian context, highlighting that customer loyalty is not merely transactional but is built on a combination of technological ease, economic value, and positive interpersonal service experiences.

Disya Yuke Farhana; Enggar Diah Puspa Arum; Ilham Wahyudi; Wiralestari Wiralestari

Jurnal Ekonomi, Akuntansi, dan Perpajakan 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This study examines the effect of transfer pricing, thin capitalization, and intangible assets on tax avoidance among manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during 2022-2024. Using a purposive sampling method, 90 firms were selected, yielding 262 firm-year observations after removing 8 outliers from an initial pool of 270. Tax avoidance is proxied by the Cash Effective Tax Rate (CETR); transfer pricing by the Related Party Transaction ratio (RPT); thin capitalization by the Debt-to-Equity Ratio (DER); and intangible assets by the ratio of intangible assets to total assets. The results indicate that transfer pricing has a significant negative effect on tax avoidance, thin capitalization has a significant negative effect on tax avoidance, and intangible assets do not significantly affect tax avoidance. The model is jointly significant (F = 25.422; p < .001) with an Adjusted R² of 21.92%, indicating that 21.92% of the variation in tax avoidance is explained by the three independent variables. These findings carry important implications for tax authorities seeking to strengthen oversight of related-party transactions and the capital structures of multinational enterprises.

Madona Agustin Sari; Izzat Amini

Jurnal Ilmu Sosial, Bahasa dan Pendidikan 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

In the digital era, e-commerce has developed not only as a platform for buying and selling activities but also as a strategic medium for marketing and business development. University students theoretically possess strong potential to become edupreneurs because they are closely connected to technology and supported by higher education environments. Nevertheless, the reality at Al-Amien Prenduan University indicates that students tend to act more as consumers in e-commerce rather than as entrepreneurs. This condition creates a gap between theoretical expectations and practical implementation, raising questions regarding the effectiveness of e-commerce in encouraging students’ entrepreneurial spirit. This study examines strategies for strengthening Edupreneurship graduates through the optimization of e-commerce. The research specifically explores ways to maximize e-commerce in supporting the development of Edupreneurship graduate profiles and improving graduates’ competitiveness in entrepreneurship and employment sectors. A qualitative approach with a case study method was employed at Al-Amien Prenduan University. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving female students of the Islamic Education Edupreneurship program who actively engage in entrepreneurial activities through e-commerce platforms. The findings reveal that optimizing e-commerce can be achieved through identifying students’ digital competencies and needs, as well as utilizing flexible technologies that support broader market access and global transactions. In addition, strategies such as enhancing digital marketing creativity, strengthening market research capabilities, and understanding consumer behavior significantly contribute to entrepreneurial development. The study concludes that e-commerce effectively fosters entrepreneurial attitudes, adaptability, and competitiveness among students in facing the challenges of the digital economy.

Sabila Inayatul Kafiyah; Neisya Syafarina; Naerul Edwin Kiky Aprianto

Jurnal Manajemen dan Ekonomi Bisnis 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to analyze the resilience of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in local economic development, with a focus on market dependency in the Purwasera culinary area, Purwokerto. The study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, documentation, and literature review, involving MSME actors and area management as informants. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that MSMEs play a strategic role in supporting local economic activities, as reflected in increased income and dynamic economic transactions. However, MSME resilience still faces challenges, particularly high dependency on student consumers, which leads to income fluctuations during academic holidays. In addition, low adoption of digital technology hinders market expansion and business competitiveness. This study concludes that strengthening MSME resilience requires market diversification, digital adoption, and capacity building to ensure sustainable local economic development..

Dui Rafika Ramadhani; M. Masrukhan

Jurnal Riset dan Publikasi Ilmu Ekonomi 2026 Asosiasi Riset Ekonomi dan Akuntansi Indonesia

This study discusses the analysis of the account opening procedure for E-mas Savings through the digital platform BYOND by Bank Syariah Indonesia. The selection of this topic is motivated by the development of digital services in Islamic banking and the increasing public interest in gold investment products based on sharia principles. The purpose of this study is to identify the procedure for opening an E-mas Savings account and to examine its compliance with sharia accounting principles and DSN-MUI Fatwas. This research was conducted at Bank Syariah Indonesia KCP Tegal Sutoyo using data collection techniques in the form of observation, interviews, and documentation. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach to obtain an in-depth understanding of the implementation of digital-based E-mas Savings services. The focus of the research was directed toward the stages of the account opening procedure, transaction mechanisms, and the application of sharia principles in digital banking services. The results indicate that the procedure for opening an E-mas Savings account has been implemented in accordance with applicable regulations and sharia principles, although there are still obstacles related to the uneven level of customer understanding regarding digital service mechanisms. In addition, the implementation of digital services through BYOND by BSI is considered capable of providing convenience, efficiency, and flexibility for customers in conducting gold investments without having to visit bank branches directly. Therefore, increased education and socialization for customers are needed so that the utilization of E-mas Savings can run more optimally and enhance public trust in digital-based sharia investment products.

Alip Suryo Abdillah; Dorojatun Prihandono

Jurnal Manajemen dan Ekonomi Bisnis 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

The digital era has fundamentally transformed the market landscape, requiring e-commerce platforms to understand the determinants of consumer behavior. This study aims to analyze the role of E-commerce Trust as a mediating variable in the relationship between Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness, and Perceived Enjoyment on Purchase Intention. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected from 326 active users of the Lazada platform in Central Java. Data analysis was conducted using the Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) method. The results show that the three main factors ease, usefulness, and enjoyment have a positive and significant influence on Brand Trust and consumer Purchase Intention directly. Furthermore, it was found that E-commerce Trust acts as a crucial mediator that strengthens Purchase Intention through positive user experience. Theoretically, this study strengthens the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework and the context of Cross-Border E-commerce (CBEC) in the digital retail industry. Practically, these findings emphasize the importance of optimizing platform features to enhance transaction convenience and security and build long-term loyalty. The research's implications suggest that platform managers should focus on both aesthetics and functionality to create a credible and enjoyable digital shopping ecosystem for consumers in developing regions.

Fitriah Fitriah; Yanto Nius Gulo

Jurnal Pengabdian dan Keberlanjutan Masyarakat 2026 Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

The transformation of payment systems from cash to digital through the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) is part of financial transaction modernization in Indonesia. This transformation has begun among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Baduy community, particularly in Baduy Luar, which has higher interaction with external communities. However, the adoption of digital payment systems has not been fully supported by adequate financial management capabilities. This community service activity aims to identify the transformation process of payment systems and describe the financial literacy conditions of Baduy MSMEs. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach through in-depth interviews and field observations. The results show that some MSMEs have adopted QRIS through Bank BRI as an alternative payment method alongside cash and have utilized social media such as TikTok Live and Instagram for product marketing. The main sources of income include handicrafts, traditional clothing, accessories, and food products. However, financial management practices remain simple and lack systematic recording. This indicates improved financial inclusion but not yet accompanied by adequate financial behavior. Therefore, strengthening financial literacy is essential to support sustainable financial modernization in the Baduy community.

Zahwa Rahmadina; Yandra Rivaldo; Mohamad Aras

Jurnal Manajemen Riset Inovasi 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study investigates the influence of drug availability, location, and service quality on consumer purchasing decisions at Toko Obat Zahwa Batam. The phenomenon underlying this research is a significant decline of 23.3% in transactions at Toko Obat Zahwa over three years (2022–2024). A quantitative approach with survey method was employed, involving 100 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed through multiple linear regression using IBM SPSS 26. The results indicate that drug availability has a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions (t = 5.390; sig. = .000), service quality has a positive and significant effect (t = 4.700; sig. = .000), while location does not significantly influence purchasing decisions (t = –0.556; sig. = .579). Simultaneously, all three variables significantly affect purchasing decisions (F = 38.203; sig. = .000) and explain 53.0% of the variance (Adjusted R² = .530). The dominant influence of drug availability confirms the need-driven nature of pharmaceutical retail purchases, while the non-significant effect of location reflects habitual buying behavior among loyal consumers. These findings provide practical implications for independent drug store management in competitive markets.