Search Results for Finance and Banking

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of banking digitalization in enhancing financial inclusion in Iraq by assessing the impact of digital banking services on empowering groups excluded from the formal financial system. The study adopts a quantitative analytical approach based on panel data from a sample of Iraqi commercial banks over the period 2015–2024. It examines financial inclusion indicators, including the number of newly opened bank accounts, the volume of electronic transactions, and the proportion of loans directed toward individuals and small businesses. These indicators are analyzed against banking digitalization measures, represented by the adoption of mobile and internet banking services and the volume of investments in technological infrastructure. Panel data regression models, namely Fixed Effects and Random Effects, are employed, in addition to the Hausman test to determine the most appropriate model. Instrumental Variables (IV) models are also used to address the potential issue of reverse causality between banking digitalization and the increasing demand for banking services. The results reveal a positive and statistically significant effect of banking digitalization on enhancing financial inclusion, particularly through increasing the use of electronic transactions and facilitating remote account opening. The findings also indicate variations in the magnitude of this effect between state-owned and private banks, with a greater impact observed among private banks, which demonstrate greater flexibility in adopting modern technologies. The study concludes that banking digitalization represents an effective pathway toward expanding financial inclusion in Iraq, provided that digital infrastructure is strengthened and public trust in electronic services is enhanced. The study offers several recommendations for policymakers and banks to improve access to financial services and empower financially underserved and unbanked populations.

Abstract

During times of economic volatility and in the process of administrative reform in post-conflict situations, strong leadership is essential to building a resilient workforce. To tackle this, the current study seeks to examine the effects of ethical leadership on “organizational citizenship behavior” (OCB) with corporate “social responsibility” (CSR) as a mediator in the private banking sector in Iraq. The research adopts a quantitative approach with the use of survey data from 229 banking professionals and is based on “Social Exchange and Social Identity theories”. The conceptual pathways were tested using variance-based structural equation modeling, which was performed using SmartPLS 4. The results of the analyses strongly favor the proposed model, showing that ethical leadership has a significant positive impact on employees' perceptions of CSR initiatives and their engagement in discretionary citizenship behaviors. Moreover, CSR was observed to have a great impact on OCB. Importantly, the findings proved that CSR is a powerful mediator, which means that ethical leaders provoke citizenship behaviors by developing a socially responsible organizational climate. The study fills a significant gap in the literature because it tests a mediation model in a less-studied context of the Iraqi banking sector. It offers administrative lessons to policymakers and bank executives, indicating that the strategic need to invest in ethical leadership and true CSR activities is not only a moral requirement but a strategic need to increase sustainable employability and fight against economic adversities.

Abstract

The study aims to evaluate the extent to which Iraqi banks have adopted digital transformation technologies and their willingness to shift from traditional methods to digital ones in order to achieve sustainable development goals. This is done through a quantitative analysis of a sample of banks using financial indicators. The results show that some banks have begun to pay attention to adopting digital technologies and considering sustainable development principles; however, these efforts are still in their early stages compared to foreign banks, while most banks continue to rely on traditional methods due to limited awareness and insufficient exposure to technological advancements. The study also indicates that there are limited attempts to adopt digital services such as mobile banking applications, account inquiries, and electronic payment systems. It emphasizes the need to invest in technological infrastructure, provide regulatory support, and enhance awareness among bank management and the community about the benefits of digital technologies, including cost reduction, increased efficiency, and improved service quality, thereby contributing to the achievement of sustainable development.

Abstract

The study aims to evaluate the banking stability achieved by Rafidain bank based on banking stability indicators, the reality of the use of financial technology, and the extent to which the latter is reflected in its banking performance.To achieve this goal, deductive approach and its cognitive implications were relied upon through the use of the descriptive analytical method, which analyzed the financial date of Rafidain Bank and the Statistical reports and publications issued by the central Bank of Iraq, along with an exploratory analysis of the application of technology in Rafidain Bank,Accordingly, it was concluded  that the weak use of financial technology in Rafidain Bank increased the possibility of  being exposed to finacial crises that would shake its banking stability,this requires the Central bank and the relevant authorities to work on contracting with international companies that will help introduce financial technology into the bank, which will facilitate banking financial services and support its growth and stability.

Abstract

This research aims to study the role of Lean Quality in promoting the transition to Green Manufacturing in modern organizations, focusing on its practical applications at the Al-Hillah Sugar Factory, owned by Al-Ittihad Company. The research highlights how Lean Quality principles, such as continuous improvement, waste reduction, and process flow optimization, can be used as tools to enhance production efficiency and achieve environmental sustainability.The research employed a field survey methodology, utilizing an eight-item questionnaire to cover Lean Quality and Green Manufacturing elements. A five-point Likert scale was used to assess the extent to which these concepts were applied by factory employees. A representative sample of employees was selected using stratified random sampling to ensure comprehensive coverage of all departments and job levels.The results of the analysis showed that Lean Quality is applied to varying degrees within the factory, with a high level of application in continuous improvement and process flow. However, some gaps were observed in employee engagement and waste reduction. Green Manufacturing practices ranged from moderate to high, with superior performance in the areas of corporate sustainability and energy consumption reduction. Environmental innovation, however, presented some challenges that require further development.

Abstract

The current study aims to investigate the relationship between shadow banking and money laundering. The importance of this study lies in its contribution to enriching the theoretical and scientific literature and clarifying the impact of and relationship between shadow banking and money laundering. The significance of the study stems from the importance of shadow banking, which can be defined as financial intermediaries or non-bank financial institutions involved in lending and credit activities but subject to limited or no regulatory oversight. A hypothetical framework was developed to illustrate the relationships between the research variables, leading to the formulation of a set of hypotheses concerning direct effects and correlations. The study addressed the theoretical framework and yielded several conclusions. The results revealed a statistically significant negative effect of structured investment instruments on money laundering in the banks under study. This suggests that limiting the use of these instruments may contribute effectively to reducing money laundering risks. The results also confirmed a statistically significant negative effect of credit hedge funds on money laundering in the banks under study. This indicates that reducing transactions with these funds may significantly decrease the likelihood of their exploitation in money laundering activities. Furthermore, the findings revealed a statistically significant negative effect of commercial paper channels on money laundering in the banks under study. This indicates that reducing banks' activities in these channels represents an important measure for limiting money laundering operations. The study also proposed a set of recommendations to address the issues identified and help mitigate the risks associated with money laundering in the context of shadow banking.

Abstract

The research aims to address a fundamental issue related to the impact of Islamic finance on economic development. Islamic finance has witnessed a significant increase in the volume of its financial transactions, especially after the global crisis of 2008, making it a key source for financing various economic activities and driving growth in many countries. Islamic banks were selected as the focus of the study because they represent the core component of the Islamic financial industry in Iraq.

The research adopts the inductive approach by focusing on the development of the Islamic banking sector in Iraq, its various patterns, and its impact on economic development. The development of the Islamic banking sector is expressed through a set of indicators (total assets and financing volume), while economic development is measured through the non-oil GDP indicator. The data cover the period (2013–2022).

The study concludes that there is a statistically significant positive effect of credit volume on economic development, while no impact of total assets in Islamic banks on economic development was found. The researcher recommends the need to develop the operational mechanisms of Islamic banks in a manner that ensures strengthening their positive impact on economic development.

Abstract

This research focuses on the extent of interest in sustainable finance in Iraq, given its mono-economy, and the degree to which the Iraqi financial market can be utilized to achieve this important goal. This is particularly relevant as most countries worldwide are making significant progress in this area due to its social and environmental implications. The aim is to mitigate the negative impacts of traditional financing methods on other economic activities that lack sustainability. The analysis revealed a significant lack of focus on sustainable finance within the activities of the Iraqi Stock Exchange, with the exception of a few limited-impact green financial issuances. The most prominent recommendation is to work diligently to create diverse financial instruments, both equity and debt, to expand sustainable financing activities targeting various economic sectors. This would help mitigate the widespread negative environmental and climatic impacts that Iraq suffers from as a result of traditional economic activities.

Abstract

The research seeks to highlight the knowledge of the extent of financial and banking progress in the research sample banks, especially in light of the current global financial conditions, which are characterized by their progress and technological acceleration, In providing its services in conjunction with global openings, which encouraged the researcher to focus on studying and linking the variables of digital finance and financial stability in banks in general and the researched in particular because of these two variables, Of the importance and impact on the work of banks and the progress of their business, the questionnaire was used as a main tool in data collection, and the statistical program (Spss-Ver 23) was adopted to analyze and test research hypotheses, The researcher reached a set of conclusions, the most important of which is the existence of significant correlations and influence with positive statistical significance between digital finance and achieving financial stability in the surveyed banks, Several proposals were proposed, most notably increasing interest in digital finance mechanisms in the future to keep pace with rapid global financial developments.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the financial sustainability of Iraqi industrial companies using machine learning models and to compare their performance with traditional statistical models. Five key financial variables were analyzed: Working Capital Ratio (WCR), Current Ratio (CR), Return on Equity (ROE), Return on Assets (ROA), and Asset Turnover (AT). A Financial Sustainability Index (FSI) was constructed to classify companies. The results showed that WCR and CR were the most influential variables in explaining financial sustainability, while AT had the least impact. All variables demonstrated statistically significant relationships with the FSI. Moreover, machine learning models—particularly XGBoost and Random Forest—outperformed the traditional logistic regression model in predictive accuracy, with variations in variable importance rankings across models. The findings highlight the importance of focusing on working capital management and liquidity improvement to enhance financial sustainability, as well as the use of machine learning tools in financial forecasting to support more accurate strategic decision-making. This study contributes by providing a modern analytical framework to support the financial sustainability of industrial companies, with the potential for future application in other sectors. Specifically, machine learning models improved predictive accuracy by approximately 9.4% over the traditional logistic regression model, while SHAP-based analysis confirmed that WCR and CR carry the greatest weight in predicting financial sustainability. Accordingly, the study recommends that industrial companies prioritize working capital and liquidity management, that financial analysts and investors adopt machine learning models such as XGBoost and Random Forest in financial sustainability forecasting, that more comprehensive sustainability indices combining financial and operational performance be developed, and that decision-makers invest in training on machine learning tools and SHAP interpretation to support more reliable, evidence-based financial decisions.

Abstract

The research aims to review the role of green banking in achieving environmental sustainability, by clarifying the basic concepts of green banks and environmental sustainability, and identifying the most important advantages of green banks, and thus showing the effectiveness of using green banking products and services in achieving environmental sustainability.

The study was carried out in a sample of Iraqi banks, and to achieve the goal of the research, the questionnaire was used as a main tool for data collection, and it consists of (50) paragraphs for the purpose of measuring the dimensions of the study, according to the (Likart) scale with five-weights, and statistical methods were used to process the data for the purpose of reaching the results. Depending on the statistical analysis program (SPSS).

The research has a main hypothesis that there is a statistically significant relationship between green banks and environmental sustainability. The research reached a main conclusion, which is that Iraqi banks possess great material and human capabilities that, through their proper employment, can play a greater role in the process of protecting the environment.

And the most important recommendations of the research is the necessity of cooperation and unifying efforts between the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance by drawing a road map for converting all Iraqi banks to green banks that care about the environment.

Abstract

This research aims to demonstrate the role of digital technology tools in enhancing financial health within Iraqi commercial banks. The central research question is: "Do digital technology tools contribute to enhancing financial health?" This question is further broken down into several sub-questions. To achieve the research objective, hypotheses related to the correlation and influence between the main research variables were adopted. The central hypothesis states: "There is a statistically significant correlation and influence relationship between digital technology tools and enhancing financial health." The research relied on financial stability reports published by the Central Bank of Iraq for the period 2019-2024. The research population consisted of Iraqi commercial banks, and several financial equations and statistical methods were employed. The research reached a number of conclusions, most notably that banks vary in their level of digital technology adoption. This variation stems from each bank's unique policies, procedures, and approach to achieving its objectives, including resource allocation, acquisition methods, risk tolerance, and profitability targets. The research also offered several recommendations, the most important being the necessity of employing modern digital technology tools to enhance the financial stability of banks and contribute to improved financial health. This can be achieved by integrating these tools as fundamental pillars of the Iraqi banking sector.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of a rentier economy on the independence of monetary policy in Iraq after 2004, considering Iraq as a rentier state that relies heavily on oil revenues. The study included an analysis of the relationship between the rentier economy and monetary policy, as well as the effects of the rentier economy on the independence of monetary policy. It found that dependence on oil to finance public expenditures leads to a reduction in monetary policy independence.

The results showed that the rentier economy has a significant impact on the independence of monetary policy in Iraq, and that there is a pressing need to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil in order to mitigate the risks arising from fluctuations in oil prices, which affect state revenues. Consequently, when the government faces a deficit, it compels the central bank to adopt an expansionary monetary policy to finance this deficit, which in turn undermines monetary policy independence.

The study reached a number of conclusions and recommendations that the researcher believes are aimed at strengthening the independence of monetary policy in rentier states.

Abstract

This study aimed to demonstrate the impact of financial and operational risks on the profitability of Iraqi Islamic banks as of (2014-2019), where the study population consists of all employees of Iraqi Islamic banks, with a total of (8) banks. The sample of the study consisted of (50) individuals. Eviews software was used for statistical analysis, and the analytical descriptive statistical method was applied in this study. To achieve the study objectives, the following indicators were used to express financial risks: credit risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk, and capital adequacy risk. The indicators below were used to express: With regard to financial performance (return on assets, return on equity), the difficulty of the research was the significant growth in these risks due to technological progress and the creation of new financial instruments, and the study found that financial risks had a harmful effect On the financial performance of the Iraqi banks. In the light of the previous results. The report concluded with a number of suggestions, the most important of which are: the need for Iraqi banks to implement a specific plan for risk management that improves financial performance, as well as setting up preventive and corrective internal control mechanisms. Credit grants are expanded.

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies on enhancing academic interaction between students and faculty members in higher education institutions, with an in-depth comparative analysis of the Iraqi context in relation to the Arab and global contexts. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach based on a literature review and comparative analysis, supported by statistical charts and a field survey. The findings revealed that IoT-enabled smart classrooms improved interaction indicators by between 10% and 96%. The global market reached USD 14.24 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 48.26 billion by 2033, representing a compound annual growth rate of 15.3%. In contrast, the adoption rate of IoT in Iraqi public universities does not exceed 18%, compared with 68% globally, revealing a structural gap that requires urgent strategic intervention.

Abstract

The establishment is considered the center of strength for the economy of any country by meeting the needs of the community in terms of goods and services. Determining the optimal combination of production in light of the constraints of energy and demand is one of the most important pillars of the success of the establishment or factory in the market, noting that it depends on searching for the desired quantities of products based on the limited and scarcity of resources and energies. productivity required for production.

The linear programming model is among the most important quantitative methods used in building the mathematical model that enables decision-makers and those in charge of implementing them to reach the required goals in light of the available capabilities, as it is used to determine the optimal distribution of scarce resources, which usually include raw materials involved in the production process and machinery. equipment, allotted time and capital, and it is applied to many work problems and in various fields such as finance, production, marketing, distribution, etc.

Abstract

This study aims to analyze and measure the impact of Smart Digital Transformation on the quality of administrative processes at the Central Bank of Iraq – Mosul Branch, by examining the correlation and influence between the two variables. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach (exploratory study), and data were collected through a questionnaire based on the five-point Likert scale. Out of a total population of (181) individuals, (120) questionnaires were distributed using a random sampling method, with (103) valid responses retrieved for analysis via the statistical software (SPSS V.26). The results indicated that the three dimensions of Smart Digital Transformation (Infrastructure, Digital Skills, and Automation) are present in varying degrees within the bank. Based on the findings, several recommendations were proposed, most notably: the bank’s management should work toward integrating all administrative and banking systems into a unified digital platform to ensure automated data flow between departments. This would eliminate the redundancy of manual data entry, minimize human error, and achieve full automation of administrative processes.

Abstract

The current research aims to study the reality of the transition towards metaphysical education in Iraqi academic educational institutions, through analyzing the opportunities, challenges and strategic requirements associated with the application of metaphysical technologies in university education, based on the opinions of faculty members at the University of Kufa, and emphasizes the importance of research from the growing global interest in virtual reality and augmented reality technologies and immersive digital environments, and what they can provide great potential in developing the educational process and improving the quality of learning and academic interaction. The research was based on the descriptive-analytical approach for its suitability to the nature of the subject, and the questionnaire was used as the main tool for data collection, as it included three main axes, which were the opportunities for applying the Metaverse, the challenges of application, the strategic vision and readiness for transformation towards metaphysical education. The research community included faculty members and academic staff at the University of Kufa, and an intentional sample of teachers interested in digital transformation and modern educational technologies was selected. The research has reached a set of important results, most notably, there is a high positive trend towards the adoption of Metaverse technologies in university education, because of its ability to enhance interactive and immersive learning, develop students ' skills, improve the educational environment, as well as support academic innovation and expand learning opportunities without time or spatial restrictions .therefore, the results showed the existence of technical, financial, organizational and human challenges that may hinder the actual application of these technologies, including poor infrastructure, high hardware costs, lack of technical support, privacy concerns and legislation. The research stressed the importance of having a clear strategic vision for digital transformation, including the development of infrastructure, the provision of financial support, the qualification of academic cadres, the modernization of educational systems and legislation related to virtual environments, and the research ended with a set of recommendations, the most important of which is the need to adopt a comprehensive strategy for the transformation towards metaphysical education, strengthening partnerships with global technology companies, and the implementation of pilot projects before expanding the comprehensive application.

Abstract

This research aims to clarify the theoretical framework of the concepts of digital financial inclusion and financial exclusion, explaining their main causes and analyzing the role of digital financial inclusion in reducing financial exclusion. Digital financial inclusion is one of the most important pillars contributing to economic development. The importance of this research stems from the significance of studying financial exclusion in modern economic literature, as it addresses a crucial aspect of Iraqi society that exacerbates poverty and deprivation. The research highlights the role of digital financial inclusion in mitigating and addressing this issue. It is based on the hypothesis that digital financial inclusion significantly contributes to reducing financial exclusion by bringing financial services closer to those excluded in remote areas and integrating them into the formal financial system. The research concludes that digital financial inclusion provides financial services in a digital format suitable for the needs of poor and marginalized groups, especially in remote and rural areas. It recommends developing a strategic plan with a specific timeframe, implemented in phases, to achieve a high level of digital financial inclusion in remote areas, supported by sufficient financial resources and an appropriate legal framework.

Abstract

This research paper aims to analyze and measure the impact of Financial Technology (FinTech) spread on enhancing tax collection performance and mitigating tax evasion in Iraq over the period 2018–2022. The study adopts both descriptive-analytical and econometric approaches. A composite index—the Digital Financial Services Spread Index (DFSDI)—was constructed as the independent variable based on the density of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Point of Sale (POS) terminals, and Point of Card (POC) payment devices, using the Min-Max normalization method. Tax collection performance (the dependent variable) was measured indirectly through the ratio of tax revenues to non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The empirical results using Pearson correlation analysis and Simple Linear Regression showed no statistically significant relationship or impact of the DFSDI index on the tax collection ratio at a significance level of )alpha = 0.05( The correlation coefficient was )r = -0.541( with a )p-value of 0.346(, and the coefficient of determination was )R2 = 0.293( with an statistically insignificant slope coefficient of )beta = -2.297( (p=0.346). Consequently, the null hypothesis (H0) was not rejected. The economic interpretation suggests that while the expansion of digital financial services infrastructure serves as an enabling tool, it does not automatically translate into improved tax collection without direct integration and electronic linkage with tax administration processes such as e-invoicing, e-filing, automated tax payments, and database cross-checking—alongside limitations imposed by the short time series. The paper concludes that FinTech adoption must be part of a comprehensive tax reform strategy incorporating direct digitalization and institutional integration

Abstract

This research provides an in-depth analysis of the impact of fiscal policy on achieving inclusive growth in both Algeria and Saudi Arabia during the period 2004-2024. It focuses on key fiscal policy instruments such as public spending, public revenues, and the sectoral distribution of GDP, aiming to identify successful fiscal measures and explore their potential application in developing Iraq's economic experience. The research employs a comparative analysis methodology, examining the financial and economic performance of both countries and comparing it to the Iraqi economic reality based on long-term official data. The analysis emphasizes the relationship between fiscal expansion, diversification of the production base, and improvements in social indicators. The results indicate that Saudi Arabia achieved greater progress in achieving inclusive growth based on diversifying the production base and expanding financial inclusion, while Algeria focused on the social dimension of its fiscal policy, leading to improved income distribution and reduced poverty, but with limited economic diversification. The study concludes by presenting an Iraq within the framework of an integrated financial and developmental reform that takes into account justice, efficiency and sustainability.

Abstract

        The international country risk guide referred to the possibility of analyzing a country's political risks using variables that included certain common or differentiated political characteristics that could become an identifiable characteristic of that country. The goal of analyzing such risks is to provide a method for quantifying and monitoring their consequences through multiple variables, including, but not limited to, the performance of financial markets. Such evaluation can be accomplished by assigning risk scores to a group of factors known as political risk elements, and despite the large size of the effects of these risks on market performance (sectors and companies), some parties avoid, ignore, or even include insufficient estimates that do not reflect their significance. As a result, the research problem focused on the idea that such levels of political risk might have a significant positive or negative impact on the performance indicators of the Iraq Stock Exchange. The ARDL model was used in the study to determine the direction and strength of the influence on the research sample. The study uncovered several results, the most important of which was that the voting process and accountability connected to the army's intervention in politics, accountability, and democracy were among the most influential explanatory factors for the two models.