Volume 7, Special Issue 2 (2026)

Abstract

The current research aims, through its chapters, to verify the relationship of influence between the dimensions of the independent variable (IT governance) and the dimensions of the dependent variable (institutional excellence). The research problem was defined in a main question: Is there an impact of IT governance in achieving the European model of excellence in the ministry? The research was applied in the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in (the Scientific Supervision and Evaluation Authority, Information Technology Department). The researcher relied on the descriptive analytical approach in completing this research by using a questionnaire to collect data from a sample of (148) people, which represents 61% of the community, which numbers (241) employees in (the Scientific Supervision and Evaluation Authority, Information Technology Department). The research reached a set of conclusions, the most prominent of which was the Ministry’s noticeable interest in its institutional excellence, which prompted it to adopt IT governance in general. The most prominent recommendations were the need for the Ministry to focus on improving its institutional and corporate resources, which increases its ability to exchange scientific expertise with institutions in other countries

Abstract

This study aims to compare and improve the methods of building investment portfolios for a sample of Iraqi banks listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange, by comparing traditional methods such as the Markowitz model with modern techniques based on machine learning. The Markowitz model is key to balancing return and risk across the medium-variance optimization framework, a traditional model that many financial institutions rely on. The study focused on exploring the extent to which machine learning techniques such as key component analysis (PCA), supporting vector machine (SVM), logistic regression, and random forest can improve the performance of the investment portfolios of these banks in a volatile environment such as the Iraq Stock Exchange. These techniques rely on processing and analyzing huge financial data to discover hidden patterns and relationships that help increase returns and reduce risk more effectively compared to traditional methods. The historical financial data related to the shares and assets of the banks of the research sample in the Iraq Stock Exchange was used to evaluate the performance of portfolios according to indicators such as expected return, variance, and Sharpe ratio. The study aims to provide innovative solutions that help banks make smarter and more effective investment decisions, commensurate with the local market conditions and the economic and political challenges they face.     

Abstract

This research aims to test the relationship and impact between green finance strategies (environmental, social, economic, governance, and compliance) and the management of climate change risks (physical, liability, and transition). The study adopted the descriptive-analytical approach to achieve its objectives. It analyzed the reality of three private Iraqi banks: the National Bank of Iraq, the International Development Bank, and the Bank of Baghdad. To collect the necessary data, a field questionnaire was distributed to a sample consisting of managers, department heads, employees, and others working in private banks in Iraq. A total of 150 questionnaires were distributed, 50 for each bank, and 124 valid responses were retrieved for statistical analysis. The researcher used the SPSS program to analyze the statistical data, test the hypotheses, and measure the relationships between the variables. The study also referred to the Egyptian experience as a model for implementing green finance strategies and addressing climate change. The research focused on two main hypotheses: the first assumes a significant correlation between green finance strategies and climate change risks across the various dimensions such as environmental, social, economic, governance, and compliance. The second hypothesis assumes that green finance strategies have a statistically significant impact on the management of climate change risks at both the main and sub-variable levels. The importance of the research lies in introducing and deepening the understanding of green finance and climate change issues, and in analyzing the extent to which green finance contributes to addressing climate-related risks. The results of the analysis confirmed the validity of all hypotheses, revealing statistically significant relationships between the strategies (environmental, social, economic, governance) and the three types of climate risks (physical, liability, and transition), which confirms the growing awareness of the importance of green finance.

Abstract

This study highlights the vital role played by electronic banking in enhancing financial inclusion in Iraq, considering the challenges facing the financial sector—particularly the limited integration of large segments of the population into the formal banking system. The study is based on a problem concerning the limited role of electronic banking in expanding financial inclusion and seeks to evaluate its actual contribution in this field.

The study aims to diagnose the current state of electronic banking in Iraqi banks, determine the extent of the spread and usage of the services provided among the public, and measure the impact of these services on financial inclusion indicators—such as increasing the number of bank accounts and facilitating access to credit and other financial services. It also reviews the challenges hindering the spread of electronic banking, whether related to infrastructure, the regulatory framework, or the lack of awareness and trust among users.

The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, relying on official data issued by the central bank and commercial banks, in addition to an inductive approach that traces the relationship between the development of electronic banking and financial inclusion indicators. Despite the persistence of some geographical and social gaps, the study recommends the need to develop digital infrastructure, enhance financial literacy, and update regulatory frameworks to keep pace with the digital transformation of banking in Iraq.

Abstract

Given the great importance of financial stocks and their significant role as one of the financial assets used in building the optimal investment portfolio, they are exposed to many risks, the most important of which is the decline in their market value. Therefore, our study addressed the reverse split method as a financial method used to raise the prices of financial stocks with low prices. A sample of Iraqi banks that suffer from A decrease in the level of share prices of (14) Iraqi banks for the period from 6/2014 to 6/2024, as the research aims to know the extent of the ability of the reverse segmentation method in building optimal investment portfolios when implementing the reverse segmentation, and two sides of the reverse segmentation were taken, which are the positive side represented by the rise in prices, as well as the negative side represented by the decrease Stock prices when implementing the reverse split, and the research aims to know the effect of this method on the returns and risks of stocks after its implementation, especially the returns and risks of portfolios that were built based on the cut rate as well as the performance of these portfolios, as it was found that the effect of the reverse split of stocks was found whether at a rise in the price level or at a fall in stock prices after its implementation, and that the returns The risk levels increased more when prices rose after the reverse split than when prices fell. The research results also showed that the optimal portfolio’s return when prices rose after the reverse split was higher than the portfolio’s return after the price decline. However, the risk of the optimal investment portfolio when prices fell after the reverse split was higher, the risk of the investment portfolio is higher when prices rise after implementation. The reverse split did not play any role in improving the performance of the investment portfolio whether prices rose or fell. Therefore, investment portfolio managers who seek to achieve high levels of returns regardless of the level of risk associated with those returns should buy shares of banks that implemented the split decision. Reverse, and this requires the management of the Iraq Stock Exchange to include the reverse split within the procedures in effect in the Iraq Stock Exchange.

Abstract

Given the challenges facing Iraqi industry—such as limited government support and the high cost of production compared to imported goods—industrial organizations are in urgent need of adopting effective technologies to improve their operational efficiency. Supply chain analysis stands out as one of the most significant of these technologies, as it helps optimize the flow of materials and information, reduce costs, and enhance the accuracy of accounting data.

This study aims to highlight the impact of supply chain analysis on strengthening the effectiveness of the accounting information system through a field application at the National Company for Chemical and Plastic Industries. The findings indicate that integrating supply chain activities with the accounting system contributes to improving the quality of financial information, controlling costs, and supporting managerial decision-making. The study further recommends the development of digital systems that integrate logistical and accounting functions, along with training personnel on modern technologies. 

Keywords: supply chain, accounting information system, operational efficiency, cost reduction , effective and ineffective activities.

Abstract

يهدف البحث الى تحديد دور ممارسات وأساليب وتقنيات تمهيد الدخل في التنبؤ بالفشل المالي في الشركات، والتعرف فيما اذا كانت هذه الممارسات تؤدي الى زيادة او تقليل احتمال الفشل المالي، وكيف تؤثر في قرارات مستخدمي القوائم المالية، فضلاً عن تحديد الاطار النظري لتمهيد الدخل والفشل المالي والتنبؤ بالفشل المالي واهم النماذج المستخدمة في التنبؤ بالفشل المالي، وذلك من خلال اختبار فرضيات البحث ومحاولة التوصل الى حل لمشكلته المتمثلة بعدم وضوح العلاقة بين تمهيد الدخل و الفشل المالي، والتي تجسد مشكلة البحث التي يمكن صياغتها في التساؤلات الآتية: هل تساهم ممارسات تمهيد الدخل في زيادة احتمال الفشل المالي؟ هل يؤثر تنوع ممارسات تمهيد الدخل في احتمال الفشل المالي؟وقد استند البحث على فرضيتين رئيسيتين هما: توجد علاقة لتمهيد الدخل في التنبؤ بالفشل المالي وفق نموذج Altman. ان علاقة تمهيد الدخل في التنبؤ بالفشل المالي وفق نموذج Altman هي علاقة طردية.وقد تم تطبيق البحث على عينة من المصارف التجارية المدرجة في سوق العراق للأوراق المالية، اذ تم اختيار المصرف الذي يكون صافي دخله غير المستقر.وبالاعتماد على القوائم المالية توصل البحث الى عدد من الاستنتاجات من اهمها: اظهرت نتائج البحث ان المصرف كان ضمن نطاق مرتفع من خطر الفشل المالي،و ان دور التمهيد كان محدوداً وغير مستمر خلال مدة الدراسة البالغة خمس سنوات، وكانت طبيعته سلبية في اغلب الفترات مما يعني انه لم يساهم بشكل كبير في تقليل خطر الفشل المالي.

Abstract

The research aims to study and analyze the cognitive foundations of analytical procedures and the efficiency of external auditors, in addition to reviewing the relevant literature on the quality of financial reporting. It focuses on the extent to which analytical procedures are applied and on verifying the external auditor’s commitment to their implementation within a selected sample of Iraqi banks (Iraqi National Bank) The study is based on the hypothesis that adopting sound analytical procedures, supported by an audit team that is scientifically and professionally qualified, positively impacts the quality of financial reporting of the audited entity. To achieve the research objectives, the financial statements of the sampled banks were analyzed using financial ratios representing liquidity, activity, leverage, and profitability.

Through a comparison between the ratios used by the external auditors and those applied by the researcher, it was found that the auditors primarily focused on liquidity indicators, applying only the current ratio, without extending the analysis to other ratios related to activity, profitability, and leverage.

The findings revealed that the effective application of analytical procedures by competent external auditors enhances the quality of financial reporting, as each element reinforces the other’s effectiveness; any weakness in one dimension directly affects the reliability of financial reports.

The researcher recommends that analytical procedures and financial ratios be applied by auditors throughout all stages of the audit process, as they provide essential support in determining the nature, timing, and extent of audit tests, while maintaining previous results for comparative and future evaluation purposes..

Abstract

This research aims to identify the role of strategic leadership, through its dimensions (clarity of strategic direction, rational use of authority, and ethical and value framework), in achieving outstanding performance in the private universities included in the research sample. (153) valid questionnaires were distributed to the research sample, which included senior and middle management. The data were processed and analyzed using several statistical methods, most notably (arithmetic mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, Pearson correlation coefficient, and simple linear regression) using the SPSS V28 statistical software. One of the most important conclusions reached by the research is the existence of a statistically significant correlation between strategic leadership (with its three dimensions: clarity of strategic direction, rational use of authority, and ethical and value framework) and the level of outstanding performance in private universities. This indicates that adopting these dimensions contributes to enhancing the universities' ability to improve their focus on beneficiaries, develop their internal processes, and improve their human resource management as key inputs for institutional excellence. The research recommends the necessity of adopting an integrated strategic leadership system in private universities, based on developing clear and updated documents and strategies, promoting organized delegation of powers, establishing the ethical framework, building leadership and human capacities, and supporting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, in a way that contributes to raising the levels of institutional performance and achieving excellence in the higher education environment.     

Abstract

Given the swift digital changes occurring in the Banking industry, the purpose of this paper is to examine how well artificial intelligence systems can forecast and protect against future disasters.  By utilizing its skills in big data analytics, forecasting financial behavior, and more accurately and effectively managing risks, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly regarded as a crucial component in the development of banking systems and improving their operational efficiency.

 By enhancing client satisfaction, tailoring banking services to meet the demands of each individual, and cutting down on operational errors and administrative expenses, banks hope to gain a competitive edge by utilizing these technologies.  AI also helps to speed up credit decisions, make it possible to identify financial crime early, and create clever marketing plans based on forecasts of future market trends.

In order to ensure financial sustainability and achieve integration between digital transformation and the demands of banking innovation, studies show that the future of AI encompasses strategic, cultural, human, technological, and organizational dimensions in addition to technical ones.

 The paper also examined a number of anticipated long-term effects of AI applications, such as increased forecasting precision, lower operating expenses, better customer satisfaction, increased worker productivity, and assistance with investment choices.  The findings show that implementing AI applications in the banking sector is a strategic requirement to guarantee long-term growth and competitiveness in the digital era, not a technical luxury.

In order to enhance lending decisions and lower default risks, the paper also assesses how well a number of categorization algorithms work in assessing loan applicants' creditworthiness.  Using a dataset that represented the traits and financial activities of clients, seven machine learning techniques were used: Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, Extra Trees, Gaussian Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression, SVC-RBF, and KNN.

The paper used a database of 21 variables for loan applicants. Numerical variables included (age, income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and loan amount). Descriptive variables included (loan purpose, region, marital status, employer, educational level, and application channel). Binary variables included (whether or not the applicant had a history of default). These variables were used to predict the approval or rejection decision, with the dependent variable being represented by two values: 0 for rejection and 1 for approval.

The models were evaluated using the following six key performance indicators: Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1 Score, Receiver Operating Characteristic Area Under the Curve (ROC AUC), and Brier Score.   The findings demonstrated that the Gradient Boosting algorithm performed best overall in both probability prediction quality and customer differentiation across different risk levels.  The Random Forest algorithm, which showed stability and balanced metrics, came next.  On the other hand, despite its moderate performance, Logistic Regression provided great interpretability, while the Gaussian Naive Bayes algorithm demonstrated high sensitivity in identifying high-risk customers.  In terms of overall accuracy and probability quality, some models—like SVC-RBF and KNN—performed worse.

Abstract

The United Arab Emirates has established a distinguished economic and social model characterized by its ability to keep pace with rapid technological and digital transformations, as well as its continuous expansion in investment and development activities. Despite this progress, the UAE remains vulnerable to fluctuations resulting from global economic crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a substantial impact on financial markets, liquidity levels, and capital mobility.

  This study examines the structural characteristics of the UAE economy and its development policies through key macroeconomic indicators, namely gross domestic product (GDP), the inflation rate, and the public debt ratio. It then analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the UAE banking system by focusing on Emirates NBD Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank, based on selected financial indicators, including net profit, return on assets (ROA), and return on equity (ROE).                                                                                          

              Among the most important conclusions reached by the study is that the COVID-19 crisis revealed the resilience and efficiency of the UAE banking sector in dealing with the pandemic and achieving an early recovery. This resilience contributed to financial stability and superior profitability for both banks. However, the pace and nature of recovery differed between the two institutions. Emirates NBD Bank achieved the highest levels of profitability and return on assets, while First Abu Dhabi Bank maintained steady growth, reflecting the adoption of a long-term risk management strategy. This diversity in banks’ policies contributes to the creation of a balanced banking system capable of effectively coping with crisis.                                                                          

           As for the key recommendations, the study emphasizes the need to strengthen the role of the banking sector in raising public awareness, as well as monitoring the damages suffered by customers in the aftermath of crises, giving due consideration to their interests, and ensuring the protection of their rights through a comprehensive set of regulatory and supportive measures.     

Abstract

The research aims to study and analyze the risks associated with the adoption of accounting information systems, particularly human, technological, environmental, and legal risks. It also addresses the literature related to the reliability of the external auditor’s report by highlighting the nature of these risks and explaining the extent to which they affect the quality and credibility of audit reports issued by local audit firms.

The research is based on the hypothesis that identifying the risks of adopting and operating accounting information systems by regulatory bodies, and relying on auditors who possess the professional capability to disclose such risks, will positively reflect on the reliability of the final audit report for stakeholders who rely on accounting information. To achieve the objectives of the study, a conceptual framework was developed that covers the accounting information system, its internal structure, and the risks associated with its adoption. In addition, the framework analyzes the dependent variable represented by the reliability of the external auditor’s report and the characteristics that this report must include. The study also clarifies the role that risk identification can play, especially risks related to human factors involving system designers and operators, and technological risks related to the information infrastructure of business organizations.The researcher concluded that the level of disclosure regarding the risks of adopting accounting information systems in audit reports is still limited and incomplete. A significant portion of audit outputs continues to focus on traditional financial tests, without expanding into the evaluation of risks associated with modern systems. It was also found that the lack of systematic identification of these risks directly affects the reliability of the audit report and reduces the ability of users of financial statements to rely on it.

The researcher recommends that audit reports should include an annex or a dedicated section addressing risks related to accounting information systems, and that an evaluation methodology should be adopted encompassing human, technological, environmental, and legal risks, in addition to determining the impact of these risks on the fairness and credibility of financial data. The study further recommends enhancing the training of regulatory staff on mechanisms for evaluating risks associated with modern systems and integrating the results of such evaluations into the contents of the external auditor’s report, in a manner that strengthens its reliability and transparency for all stakeholders.

Abstract

Achieving sustainable development requires a framework for decision-making, accountability, and management, which good governance provides. According to the World Bank's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) report, Iraq has a performance gap of 34.1% in achieving the SDGs, which constitutes the applied problem of this study. Therefore, this study seeks to answer the main question: What is the role of good governance in achieving sustainable development through the mediation of Total Quality Management (TQM)? To achieve this, the study was conducted in the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, and a sample of 100 department and division managers was selected. To collect data from this sample, a questionnaire was designed and distributed to 130 managers, of which 110 were returned, and 100 of these were deemed valid for analysis, representing the final sample size. Furthermore, the study employed quantitative analysis of the performance indicators adopted by the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity. The study utilized a deductive approach and a descriptive-analytical method in presenting and analyzing its data. The data was analyzed using SPSS software. The study concluded that the surveyed sample recognizes the importance of good governance indicators in achieving sustainable development. The analysis revealed that good governance has a significant and statistically significant impact on sustainable development, and that the influence of good governance indicators on sustainable development is growing. The study recommended that the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity adopt good governance indicators as a framework for decision-making, accountability, and efficiency to improve its performance towards achieving sustainable development.

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the impact of organizational culture promotion mechanisms on the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies in the Iraqi Ministries of Environment and Industry and Minerals. While the impact of organizational culture has been extensively studied, its specific effect on the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies has not been previously investigated, which constitutes the epistemological problem addressed by this study. Furthermore, the Iraqi environment suffers from a lack of applied studies and empirical evidence related to environmental sustainability. Therefore, this study seeks to answer the central question: What is the impact of organizational culture promotion mechanisms on the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies? This study was conducted in the Iraqi Ministries of Environment and Industry and Minerals. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 110 senior administrative leaders in these ministries.

The study employed an inductive approach and used a descriptive-analytical method to present and analyze its data. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and Amos software. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was used to verify the quality of the study instrument and model. Descriptive analytical tools such as the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation were used to present, analyze, and interpret the study data. Simple regression was used to test the hypotheses.

The study concluded that the mechanisms adopted to enhance organizational culture constitute an integrated and interconnected system that fosters an organizational environment supportive of adopting environmentally friendly technologies. These mechanisms have a cumulative and interactive impact on promoting environmental values ​​and transforming them from mere theoretical concepts into daily organizational practices. When leadership adopts exemplary environmental behaviors and expresses a clear commitment, designs reward systems to encourage green practices, creates a flexible organizational culture adaptable to technological changes, uses rituals and symbols that reinforce environmental identity, and provides training programs that develop environmental awareness and skills, they collectively create a profound cultural shift. This shift makes the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies not merely a response to external demands, but an integral part of the organizational identity and an automatic behavior for employees at all levels.