International Journal of Accounting, Finance, Auditing, Management and Economics

Detecting earning management in financial crisis: empirical evidence of three boycotted companies in Morocco

Dikra EL MAGUIRI — 2023-01-31

Do companies facing a crisis such as the Boycott manage their results in the first year of the crisis? This study focused on the three companies that were the target of the Boycott campaign, which had marked Morocco on April 20, 2018. We interpellated two empirical models, a stationary model of DeAngelo (1986) and a modified Jones economic model (1995), to perform, on a longitudinal basis composed of a sample of 30 year/firm observations, an empirical test of the main research hypothesis. Adopting this quantitative approach, the management of accounting results is effective in the first year of the crisis through downward adjustments. Nevertheless, the study sample was composed of three firms in a boycott crisis, indicating a good representativeness of the results given the limited number of observations (30 firm-year observations). The theoretical framework includes political-contractual theory, governance theory and accounting threshold theory. Agency relations, political costs, governance mechanisms and accounting thresholds were mobilized to formulate hypotheses regarding the discretionary components of earnings management during a boycott crisis. The testing of these hypotheses is put in perspective with other research on accounting earnings management in a crisis context.

Keywords: Earning management, Accruals, Boycott

Classification JEL : M20, M40

Type de l’article : Empirical research

SMEs and the reduction of information asymmetries: the contribution of signal theory

Amadou HAIDARA — 2023-01-31

SMEs are recognized as the most important business category in our economic fabric. These companies commonly experience difficulties in accessing formal financing. Indeed, they are considered to be characterised by a strong asymmetry of information affecting their relationship with their main provider of external resources, the banks. The objective of this article is to analyse the mechanisms of resolution of information asymmetries from the point of view of signal theory. In fact, it is a question of assessing the signalling efforts of SMEs through the following variables: personal contribution of the owner, debt, guarantees, dividends paid, duration of the customer relationship, the profile of the entrepreneur, share capital, and distance. Based on questionnaire survey data from 217 Malian SMEs and the use of a binary logistics model, our results show that five (5) signals are significant in the treatment of information asymmetries by Malian SMEs. These are the personal contribution of the entrepreneur, the dividends paid, the duration of the customer relationship, the entrepreneur’s profile, and the share capital. These results suggest a reduction in the degree of informational opacity of SMEs towards banks in the presence of these signals.

Keywords: Information asymmetries, Signals, SMEs, Banking, Mali.

JEL Classification: G32, G35

Paper type: empirical article

The purchase intention of local products of Moroccan cooperatives on social media: Exploratory study

Soraya RECHIDI — 2023-01-31

Social media have fully changed the way consumers interact and express themselves and how knowledge is created and exchanged (Bertino & Foster, 2015). Starting from the observation of an institutional appropriation of social innovation, oriented towards competitiveness and market efficiency (Juan et al., 2020), Moroccan terroir coopératives are about to follow suit in the trade, this change raises new research questions in relation to Moroccan consumer behavior and purchase intention via social networks.

The present research aims, through an exploratory study, to analyze the purchase intention on social networks of Moroccan terroir coopératives' products. The theoretical framework adopted refers to the theory of planned behavior (Ajzen, 1991). Our methodological approach is based on a quantitative approach conducted on 183 social network users, with the purpose of determining the variables that can determine the purchase intention of Moroccan terroir coopératives products on social networks. In order to model and analyze the relationships between the variables of the research model the PLS method was used, which allowed us to confirm that the sample has a positive attitude and finds the usefulness of buying local products on social networks.

Key words : Purchase intention, terroir cooperatives, social media, theory of planned behavior, Morocco.

JEL Classification : D1, D12

Paper type: Empirical research.

The impact of governance practices on the organizational performance of public institutions and companies: The case of the Souss-Massa region

Abdellatif NOUREDDINE — 2023-01-31

The impact of governance practices on the organizational performance of public institutions and enterprises is considerable. By integrating good governance practices, these organizations can improve their management, optimize their performance and strengthen their relationships with stakeholders. Taking governance into account can therefore have a positive effect on the overall performance of these institutions and public companies. Indeed, Morocco's public enterprises and institutions have begun to understand the importance of governance in their management, but the Public Enterprises and Institutions sector has not yet adopted all the governance practices that could improve their performance and management. The implementation of these practices will have a significant impact on the relationships and interests of the parties involved in these organizations. This paper focuses on the contribution of governance practices to the improvement of organizational performance of public enterprises and institutions. To assess the relationship between governance practices and the performance of public enterprises and institutions, we used a quantitative regression method. This method allowed us to quantify the contribution of each governance practice to the overall performance of these organizations. The analysis of our results indicates that there are a number of governance practices that have a significant influence on the performance of Public Enterprises and Establishments. Among them, transparency and dissemination of information, optimization of financial resources, digitalization of processes and financial control play a key role.

Keywords: Governance, Public Institutions and Enterprises, State, Stakeholders, Organisational Performance.

Classification JEL : H11

Type de l’article : article empirique.

The determinants of the port logistics performance: Case of the port of Casablanca

Kaoutar BENKHEDDA — 2023-01-31

In the current context, with the opening of international markets and international trade, all companies must face the challenges of improving their tools, methods, processes, in particular improving the quality of their services and ensuring the proper operation of the supply chain in order to achieve a high level of organizational and inter-organizational performance. In this sense, ports play an important role in international trade and are a key factor in the competitiveness of the port logistics chain. In this context, productivity and performance are the main concerns of all port actors. However, the port sector is characterized by the complexity of operations and the diversity of port functions, especially because of the multiplicity and dispersion of stakeholders and the divergence of their priorities and interests. This research develops an exploratory qualitative study on the performance of port logistics in the specific Moroccan context. To do this, and in order to identify the determinants of port logistics performance, a review of previous work on port logistics performance was carried out. Following this, a comparative analysis was undertaken to identify the differences and similarities between the factors considered determinants of port performance as they exist in the literature and the statements made by the respondents. The results support the major role of the quality of service, the delay, the assurance of the goods, the good coordination and the cost. However, infrastructure and new technologies remain an essential criterion for the smooth running of the activity.

Keywords: Port supply chain, determinants of port logistics performance.

JEL Classification: R41.

Paper type: Empirical research.

Effectiveness of the BCEAO's monetary policy in financing the economy in Benin

Tanguy Ahodègnon GBAGUIDI — 2023-01-31

The present study aims to analyze the effectiveness of monetary policy in financing the economy in Benin. Taking part in the theoretical controversy between Keynesian and monetarist on the effectiveness of monetary policy, this study tests empirically the effectiveness of the crowding-out effect the government could exert on the private sector. To do this, econometric tests were carried out on data covering the period 1980 - 2020. The variables used in this study are: Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as an endogenous variable; credits to the economy and to the government, broad money, reserve requirements and exports as exogenous variables. The results from the error correction model (ECM) estimation that the increase in the money supply leads to an increase in both credits to the economy and to the government. Credit to the economy has a positive and significant influence on production while credit to the government negatively and significantly affects economic growth. Finally, in the long term, the broad money supply has no significant influence on economic growth. Likewise, the reserve requirements do not have significant effects both in the short and long term.

key words: money supply, credit to the economy, credit to the government, economic growth

Code JE: E52, E31, E61, E42, E58

Type de papier: recherche empirique

Organization of the accounting function as a lever for the financial performance of microfinance in Benin

Epiphane NONKOUDJE — 2023-01-31

The purpose of this research is to analyze the role of the organization of the accounting function on the financial performance of microfinance in Benin. To achieve this objective, data was collected from 72 managers (managers, accountants, cashiers and collection agents) of microfinance institutions. Analysis of the results from the surveys reveals that financial performance and non-compliance with accounting procedures are strongly related R = 0.697 (Cohen, 1986) and that this relationship is positive (β = -.672 < 0 and B=, -.636 < 0) then the financial performance and the delay in recording accounting documents are also strongly related R = 0.761 (Cohen, 1986) and this relationship is positive (β= -.616 < 0) . So these results confirm that the non-compliance with accounting procedures and the delay in recording accounting documents negatively influences the financial performance of microfinance institutions. Thus the level of financial performance of microfinance institutions is explained by the quality of the organization of their accounting function or even their improvement in compliance with accounting procedures and the recording of accounting documents.

Keywords: Organization, Accounting function, Financial performance, Microfinance institution

JEL Classification: L25, M41

Paper type: Empirical research

Which indicators for an efficient management of Human Resources?

Sofia RAMDI — 2023-01-31

The objective of setting up a steering system for the Human Resources function is to monitor and control its performance for greater efficiency. This study aims to demonstrate that relevant indicators are a necessary tool for this purpose. The first works on the measurement of human resources date back to the mid-1960s during Eric FLAMHOLTZ's experiments and since then, several approaches have emerged including the OFAI method (Objectives, Key Success Factor, Indicator) (Autissier and Simonin, 2009), which seems to be the most appropriate for our research context. Thus, to conduct this study, we chose to carry out a qualitative study, through semi-directive interviews given the specific context of our research, that of a company operating in the mining sector. The small size of our sample is justified by the fact that our methodological approach aims to understand the choice of actions taken by our decision-makers by taking into account the key success factors for each HR activity. The sample on which the observations and analyses are based is not representative of a statistical population, but of the object of the research. Our case study was subjected to a horizontal qualitative analysis, following a transcript of our interviewees' answers. Our content analysis reflects an idea of the overall perception of our interviewees on three axes, namely the perception of the interviewees on the HR indicators, the Mission of the occupied position, and the needs and expectations of the users. The results show that there is a close link between the activities of the TAMCA/OE Management and Development entity and the indicators constructed, and that the Key Success Factors make it possible to specify the actions to be taken by activity. These results can be useful for HR professionals to focus on the relevance of HR indicators and their impact on the performance of their function. The article ends with an opening on the contribution of the HR function at the strategic level, and the link between value creation and the HR function.

Keywords: Management, Human Resources Function, Indicators

JEL Classification: J24

Paper type: Empirical research

Financing methods influencing the overall performance of cooperatives in Morocco: Case of agricultural cooperatives in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region

Taoufiq ESSILI — 2023-01-31

Cooperatives in Morocco are becoming more vital to the country's economic and social development as a result of their commitment to democratic values, solidarity, cooperation, and mutual assistance. This article examines the many methods of financial administration that are used by cooperatives in Morocco. On the other hand, the economic activity that cooperatives engage in is not particularly distinct from that of other forms of businesses. The primary objective of this study is to identify the various funding options that are available to cooperatives in Morocco and to evaluate the influence that these funding sources have on the overall performance of agricultural cooperatives in Morocco. Specifically, this objective will be accomplished by analyzing data gathered from both quantitative and qualitative research methods. In addition to that, the impact that these various sources of financing have had on the overall performance of cooperatives in Morocco will be assessed as part of this research. In order to evaluate the hypotheses that were developed as a consequence of research into the relevant literature, the PLS approach was used to a sample of 120 agricultural cooperatives located in the Beni Mellal Khenifra area. This was done in order to gather data. This study reveals that there is a substantial association between the two factors (state assistance and indebtedness) and the overall performance of agricultural cooperatives. This is shown by the fact that this relationship is demonstrated by this study. However, the findings of this analysis do not support the significance hypothesis about the association between self-financing and NGOs and our dependent variable.

Keywords: funding sources; agricultural cooperatives; overall performance; PLS method; social and solidarity economy.

JEL Classification : C01, C5, P13, Q14

Paper type: Empirical research.

Gender diversity in the steering committees of the Royal Moroccan Sports Federations

Chaymaa LOTFY — 2023-01-31

The objective of this study was to analyse the constitution relating to gender diversity in the steering committees within the Royal Moroccan Sports Federations (RMSF), focusing on the representation of women related to practice, management and technical supervision.

A positivist descriptive approach was adopted to accommodate secondary data available via the internet, the National Olympic Committee (CNOM) and the Ministry of National Education, Preschool & Sports (MENPS). In total, we collected data on 57 FRMS located in 8 Moroccan cities, representing 20,0553 licensees, 11,180 salaried and volunteer managers at the level of management and supervisory committees, and 633 members of the board of directors of the federations studied.

The results show that female athletes (33%) are less involved in clubs than male athletes. The executive boards of the FRMS have the smallest proportion of women (6.9%) in the position of president, with a rate of (12%) for all its boards. In addition, a minority of female executives (15%) in their management bodies. There is a lack of statistical data regarding female representation in FRMS available to researchers. Future studies should consider a thorough assessment to enrich this database to discuss the progress toward gender equality in sport leadership.

This study provides insight into the place of Moroccan women by showing how underrepresented they are in the sport.

Keywords: Gender diversity, female representation, Royal Moroccan Federation, leadership positions

JEL Classification: L83, Z20

Paper type: Empirical research

The reference framework of competencies at the heart of qualifying training

Abdelmalek AZZOUZI — 2023-01-31

The interest in competency development has been growing for several decades and has crystallized the interest of specialists from various backgrounds, in particular because of its multiple links with the constantly changing world of work. The main objective of this paper is to assess the way in which skills are mobilized (required by the labor market) in the (training) practices of vocational training establishments.

Given the important role that the competency framework can play in teaching pedagogy and its impact on the improvement of the quality of training, our reflection will try to answer the following question:

With reference to the concept of the competency framework, in what way does the training system allow students in the institution to effectively acquire the basic competencies required for the exercise of their profession?

By conducting our research using a multidisciplinary approach. We conducted a survey of internal actors (students, teachers and educational management) in a private nursing school that allowed us to contextualize these notions and to compare them with some empirical data. The present research has enabled us to arrive at the following results: it appears that the institution that served as our fieldwork does not have a clear and precise reference framework of competencies. Thus, teaching practices are not based on a formalized reference framework, and students lack confidence in the professional skills they have acquired during their training at the institution. This is due in part to the lack of pedagogical tools and methods that promote self-directed learning and autonomy.

Keywords: Reference framework of competencies, qualifying training, professional aptitude, competence-based approach.

JEL classification: I210. J240

Paper Type: Empirical Research

Human Resource Processes in Small and Medium Enterprises in Mali: The Case of Pharmaceutical Import and Wholesale Establishments

Issa COULIBALY — 2023-01-31

While small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up the bulk of the economic fabric in most countries of the world and contribute more than large enterprises to job creation, the dominant literature tends to maintain that the HR function is emerging, poorly structured and reveals informal practices. This research sheds light on the debates surrounding human resource management processes in Malian SMEs, particularly in the pharmaceutical import and wholesale establishments of Bamako. Three types of processes are identified: recruitment, training and skills development, and finally remuneration. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and prospective study that lasted 10 months (July 2021-June 2022). A survey was conducted with 28 people, including 15 managers, 5 supervisors and 8 executives.

The results show that the companies studied are more frequently putting in place a global policy in terms of recruitment, training and skills development; and thus, gradually, a remuneration system more relevant to the regulations in force and the changes in the economic context has been established. Our results show that there are differences in the practices of the companies, and that there is also a commitment on the part of staff to improve the recruitment process. However, improvements are to be expected, as Human Resources Management functions are devolved to personnel with technical and scientific knowledge. No forward-looking management of jobs and skills has been put in place. This strongly deteriorates the performance in human resources management.

Keywords: Human resources process, Drug import and wholesale establishments, Bamako, Mali.

JEL Classification: O15

Paper type: Empirical research.

Empowering rural women in Benin: a contextualization through literacy projects and programs

Ahonami Yvette DOGNON — 2023-01-31

The so-called “empowerment” of rural women remains one of the strategies for combating their situation of poverty and vulnerability. It has been the subject of several studies which have attempted to measure it to know the effects of development actions in their favor.

A polysemic and multidimensional concept, empowerment is complex; its measurement is difficult and presents challenges related particularly to its subjective and contextual characteristics, which suggest an operational and contextual definition of the concept. Through literacy programs, women are likely to become self-sufficient. One of the defining aspects of these programs is “when participants are asked to profile what an empowered woman should be in her own context”.

This article attempts to answer the following question: what is the perception of empowerment of rural women in the context of Benin, where several literacy programs have been implemented?

In this perspective, an exploratory, qualitative and participatory approach was adopted and supported by six (06) group interviews of seven (07) rural women each in six (06) departments of Benin. Through the content analysis method, the concept of empowerment is contextualized with an appropriate measurement framework and a local definition as they perceived it: Empowerment is a process of change that takes place in women's lives, by which they access/acquire (to) more economic and social resources, gain access to new knowledge and skills to improve their well-being and that of their families, as well as to increase their negotiation skills with men/spouses, negotiation that leads to mutual consultation and results in freer decision-making.

The results found could serve as a starting point for future research aimed at assessing the effects or impact of rural women's participation in literacy projects and programs on their level of empowerment.

Keywords: Empowerment, literate woman, participating woman, rural environment, measurement.

JEL Classification: C83, I 25, I28, I38, I31, J16

Type of paper: empirical research

The importance of emotional intelligence for the success of teams in Moroccan SMEs

Houda TAHRI — 2023-01-31

This study examines the relationship between emotional intelligence and performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Morocco. Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability of a person to recognize and manage their own emotions and the emotions of others. It can be divided into two dimensions: intrapersonal EI, which concerns the management of one's own emotions, and interpersonal EI, which concerns the management of the emotions of others. To address this issue, we conducted a questionnaire dedicated to Moroccan SMEs more precisely for 328 firms, and used the methodology of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results of the study revealed that intrapersonal EI and interpersonal EI are positively related to the performance of the company in the context of Moroccan SMEs. This means that people with high EI tend to achieve better results at work. We also found that the effectiveness of interactions between people can partly explain the relationship between intrapersonal EI and company performance, as well as the relationship between interpersonal EI and company performance. In other words, when team members are able to communicate effectively and manage their own emotions and the emotions of others, this can have a positive impact on the performance of the company.

Keywords: Emotional intelligence (EI), intra-personal and interpersonal, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), The performance of Small and Medium Enterprises -SME.

JEL Classification: C38, D91, F2, G41

Paper type: Empirical research

Environmental competencies as a source of organizational performance, case of tourist accommodation structures in rural areas

Fatima RAHOUA — 2023-02-01

The contribution of the integration of sustainable development on the organizationel performance has been a major topic of debate for several years. This is the context of our research, which aims to study the effect of environmental skills on organizational performance. To do so, we have mobilized the theory of resources and competencies (RBV). We thus adopted a positivist epistemological position and a hypothetico-deductive reasoning. Within the framework of this research work, we focused on tourist accommodation establishments that are already committed to sustainable development and respect for the environment. For this reason, we selected tourist accommodation establishments that have been awarded the Quality & Environment label by the Rural Tourism Development Network (RDTR). We administered a questionnaire to all the establishments that had received the label. The data collected was analyzed by means of structural equations using PLS software. The results of this work show that environmental competencies have a positive effect on employee satisfaction, retention and motivation and on the efficiency of internal processes. However, the integration of these competencies has an indirect effect on financial performance and on customer satisfaction and loyalty. However, although the results of this research are consistent with research in other contexts, the limited sample hinders their generalization.

Keywords: Sustainable development, environmental competencies, performance, Resource BasedView, tourist accommodation, rural, quality and environment label.

JEL Classification : Q01 ; L25

Type of paper : Empirical research

Intra-ECM Trade Intensity in Africa: Are Currency and Language Determinants?

Al Housseyny SAMBOU — 2023-02-05

The ultimate goal of trade integration in Africa is the total elimination of tariffs, the free movement of people and goods, the reduction of transaction costs and the convergence of economic rules and policies on trade, while ensuring the cohesion of the stages of regional and continental integration. In this paper, we investigate whether or not there is a need for a more comprehensive approach to trade integration in Africa, and if so, how this can be achieved. In this paper, we investigate whether currency and common language, taken together, are determining factors in trade intensity. For this purpose, we use the gravity model augmented with variables such as language, currency and common language interaction (mon≠lancom), currency and common border interaction (mon≠frntcom), border and trade agreement interaction (frntcom≠accom), bilateral trade volume by the economic weight of two countries (their GDP or GDP/capita in general) and by the distance between them which can evolve as a function of time Disdier and Head (2008) and Buch et al. After estimating the model with 2129 observations, we find a lack of overall significance in ECOWAS and IGAD, but in the other communities, namely ECCAS, EAC, CENSAD, AMU, SADC and COMESA, the model is globally significant. This means that currency and language remain determinant in the intensification of trade in Africa. As economic policy recommendations, accelerate the process of finalising and putting into circulation the single currency and a uniform continental communication system.

Keywords: Trade intensity; Intra-CER; Determinants

JEL Classification : F02 F15 F19 F42

Paper Type: Empirical Research

Acceptance and reluctance of vaccination against Covid19 among Moroccan citizens: Case of the grand Casablanca-Settat region

Rachid CHAABITA — 2023-02-05

To cope with the Covid19 pandemic in Morocco, It is imperative to understand the attitudes of Moroccan citizens towards available vaccines and the determinants influencing their decision to get vaccinated in order to adapt the speech of health institutions according to their reference. Therefore, in this article, we will explore the determinants that influence the attitude of the Moroccan public towards the Covid19 vaccine and identify elements that could motivate or prevent vaccination among Moroccan citizens. A cross-sectional survey using an online questionnaire was conducted among an adult population in the Casablanca- Settat region in Morocco. Chi-square tests were deployed to identify the factors impacting the decision to accept or resist the Covid19 vaccine. A logistic regression was used to analyze the predicted factors associated with the decision to be vaccinated or not against Coronavirus. In total, we found that out of a sample of 844 participants, 89.8% accepted to take the COVID-19 vaccine for precautionary reasons; however, 58.6% of those who refused the vaccine, it was out of distrust of government decisions. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that age, gender, educational level and health status were the main sociodemographic factors affecting the attitude to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. One of the limitations of this study is not taking no account of the third and fourth doses of the anti-Covid vaccine.

Keywords : Covid 19 ; vaccine ; acceptance ; reluctance ; attitude ; perception ; Morocco

JEL classification : I00

Paper Type : Empirical research

The practice of territorial marketing as an accelerated process for the development and repositioning of a territory: Case of the industrial zone Ait Melloul, Souss Massa region

Loubna KOURAICH — 2023-02-05

This article presents a theoretical synthesis from the literature as well as a qualitative study focusing on the real situation of the Ait Melloul industrial zone in the Souss Massa region, Morocco, to answer the following question: How territorial marketing can contribute local authorities to ensure the repositioning of the Ait Melloul industrial zone? And in order to study this main question, we opted for a qualitative approach. Thus, to bring my skills into line with my specialty option, I chose to harmonize territorial marketing with the municipality's ambitions of local development, hence the choice of this theme: "The practice of marketing as an accelerated process for the development and repositioning of a territory: Case of the Ait Melloul industrial zone, Souss Massa Region, Morocco”. This choice is justified by the importance of the industrial zone which constitutes a pillar of the city. Admittedly, the industrial zone has been diverted from the interests of local officials in terms of its territorial development, which threatens a tendency to relocate to other destinations. Hence the interest of using marketing tools to fulfill the mission of the municipality in order to reposition the industrial zone of Ait Melloul. We chose as an investigation tool the establishment of a semi-directive interview guide with the head of the industry department in the trade and industry delegation, responsible for the industrial zone of Ait Melloul in order to understand the actions carried out by the local authority and the territorial development actors serving this area. As well as with some members of ADIZIA (the association of investors in the industrial zone of Ait Melloul) whose objective is to study the degree of satisfaction of companies located in the industrial zone of Ait Melloul; knowing that our sample will focus on local and international companies located in the industrial district of Ait Melloul.

Keywords: Territorial marketing, investment, local authorities, investment, governance, repositioning, territory.

JEL Classification : M31 ; P35

Paper type : Empirical research

Empirical study of the relationship between intellectual capital and open innovation within companies in agribusiness

Hasna ELBOUZIDI — 2023-02-05

This article aims to examine the relationship between intellectual capital and open innovation. It is a question of studying the immaterial components which can have an influence on the practices of open innovation. The objective is to want to both understand the open innovation practices of agri-food companies and examine and describe the impact of each of the components of intellectual capital on these practices.

The treatment of our problem required a sequential approach through a first exploratory qualitative study materialized by the administration of a semi-directive interview guide with managers and managers of agri-food companies and a second confirmatory quantitative study through a questionnaire, administered to 45 agri-food companies. Exploratory and confirmatory statistical factor analyzes were established to test our research hypotheses, so we used Structural Equation Models in this approach. The confirmatory factor analysis was therefore carried out using the SMART PLS version 3 software which adapts perfectly to the reflexive nature of the latent variables of our research model and the type of modeling through the structural equations.

Our results reveal the crucial role of relational capital in the adoption of open innovation. Indeed, relational capital has a positive and significant influence on the three open innovation practices studied, namely: openness to external sources of information and knowledge, R&D collaborations and other incoming activities. We also note the informal and intuitive nature of innovation under the aegis of the open innovation paradigm and the non-formalization of research and development collaborations carried out jointly with external partners.

Keywords: Intellectual capital, Relational capital, Open innovation, R&D collaboration.

JEL Classification: O31, O34

Type of Paper: Empirical article.

Commercial opening and synchronization of cycles: case of ECCAS and ECOWAS

Al Housseyny SAMBOU — 2023-02-05

The objective of this work is to see if trade openness allows for a synchronization of cycles and thus a greater efficiency of fiscal policy and price coordination policy. Furthermore, this work evaluates the relationship between trade openness and cycle synchronization in ECOWAS and ECCAS. The statistical methodologies used are the calculation of absolute deviations from the mean of public expenditure and inflation, the calculation of the degree of trade openness on the one hand, and the calculation of cycle synchronization using the Hodrick Prescott (HP) method on the other. For a good estimation, we used the gravity model on 690 observations (420 for ECOWAS + 270 for ECCAS) using the ordinary least squares method added instrumental variables such as the common language, maritime façade called in the work by coastal country and the single currency. The results obtained show that trade openness favors the synchronization of cycles in ECOWAS and remains unfavorable in ECCAS. On the one hand, there is a good coordination of fiscal policy and price coordination policy in ECCAS (panel B), and an absence of these policies in ECOWAS despite the efforts made.

Keywords: Business cycle synchronization, instrumental variable, fiscal policy

JEL classification: B27 C23 C26 E31

The role of human capital in improving organizational resilience of service establishments: A case study of hotel businesses in Marrakech

Mhamed EL GHOZAIL — 2023-02-05

The luxury hotel sector in Marrakech is an important industry that plays a significant role in the local economy. The success of these hotels depends on various factors, including the quality of their services, the satisfaction of their customers, and the efficiency of their operations. One factor that has not been extensively studied in the context of the Moroccan hotel industry is the role of human capital in organizational resilience.

This research aims to fill this gap by examining the influence of human capital on organizational resilience in the luxury hotel sector in Marrakech. To do this, the author has conducted a literature review and formulated hypotheses about the relationship between human capital and organizational resilience. In addition, the author has developed a semi-structured interview guide to be used in a qualitative study of this issue. The aim of this research is to determine to what extent human capital can enhance organizational resilience in the Moroccan hotel industry.

It is important to conduct this research because it will contribute to our understanding of how human capital can impact organizational resilience in the hotel industry. Human capital is often underestimated in the hotel business, and employees are not always recognized for their true value. However, human capital plays a central role in creating a quality experience for customers, and customer satisfaction is a determining factor in the success of a hotel business. By studying the relationship between human capital and organizational resilience, this research will provide valuable insights into the importance of considering human capital in order to optimize organizational resilience.

There are a few limitations to this study. One limitation is related to the literature review, which is limited due to the novelty of the subject. Another limitation is that the qualitative study of this issue may be challenging. However, despite these limitations, this research has the potential to provide valuable insights into the role of human capital in organizational resilience in the Moroccan hotel industry.

Keywords: Human capital, organizational resilience, Hospitality

JEL Classification: M54

Paper type: Empirical research

Business digital crisis: What communication to implement to deal with it?

Nour el houda LARIF — 2023-02-13

The phenomena of crisis continue to accelerate and further invade our world, and this is due to multiple factors including the dazzling advance of new technologies as well as the advent of digital communication which has established new trends and organizational practices. Today, no brand is immune to any type of crisis, just a defective product or a bad communication campaign can cause a Bad Buzz and generate a negative impact very quickly and be the object of public dissatisfaction, this last does not take long to share information on the various communication media, in particular social media to express its dissatisfaction, which can destroy the reputation of an organization and tarnish its image, hence the importance of rethinking the communication strategy so that it can provide necessary items for better management of e-reputation and crises resulting from the digital sphere.

Keywords: Communication, digital crisis, social media, e-reputation management, bad buzz

Classification JEL :M30, L14, Q55

Paper type : Empirical research

Transformation of the HR function in Moroccan companies: the case of e-recruitment

Mouna EL MOUSADIK — 2023-02-13

The digitalization of human resources function of companies is a current topic that has been arised with the emergence of NICTs and the health crisis that has disrupted the mode of management of organizations. Because of this disruption, these organizations have been forced to introduce new modes of human resources management to cope with the economic and social changes that companies have experienced.

Indeed, employment issues are at the heart of the debates and the search for the best talents has become one of the biggest challenges for the HRD as well as for the managers who would like to face the new expectations and the globalization. At the level of the human resources mission, the arrival of the Internet has profoundly changed the recruitment process. The changing context requires organizations to define new recruitment standards and methods in order to meet the current challenges with the appropriate norms.

This research falls under the field work of Human Resource Management and that analyzes the degree of transformation of the recruitment function in the digital era and the perception of recruiters of this shift towards e-recruitment. Therefore, we have chosen to study the perception of e-recruitment among recruiters in Moroccan companies. To do this, we adopted a hypothetical-deductive approach. The quantitative study through a survey distributed among 100 Moroccan human resources managers allows us to conclude that e-recruitment is employed by the majority of the respondents, but the crisis of covid-19 has propelled its expansion. This method, finally, remains a strategic choice for them and its use is increasingly important given the facilities that it offers during the recruitment process.

Keywords: HRM, digitalization, E-recruitment, Moroccan companies.

JEL Classification: O15

Paper type: Empirical Research

L’impact de l'utilisation des réseaux sociaux sur la performance commerciale des entreprises marocaines

Imane EL HOUR — 2023-02-13

Our study aims to investigate the relationship between the use of social networks and the business performance of Moroccan companies. We adopted a hypothetical-deductive approach for this research. An online questionnaire was distributed to Moroccan companies; the results of 250 completed questionnaires were analyzed by applying structural equation modeling (PLS) provided by the Smart PLS4 software. The literature review showed a strong relationship between the use of social networks and business performance. The use of these networks in the sales process contributes to the creation of competitive and commercial advantages at the same time.

The results of our study show the existence of a positive and significant relationship between the use of social networks and business performance as well as business competitiveness and business performance. Our study has shown that the use of social networks has a positive impact on the sales performance of Moroccan companies. In the same way, the competitiveness of the company plays a significant role in the evolution and improvement of sales performance. However, we can conclude that social networks have a direct effect on financial performance, and that their use as a tool for collecting, analyzing and sharing information can improve the competitive intelligence within Moroccan companies and consequently their business performance.

Our study is only interested in the effect of the use of social networks on the commercial performance of Moroccan companies and does not take into consideration other variables that can impact performance directly or indirectly such as the reputation and internal communication of companies.

Keywords: Social Networks, Business Competitiveness, Business Performance.

JEL Classification: M31.

Paper type: Empirical research.

Measurement of the security climate with the nursing staff in the Mohammed VI University Hospital

Abdelouahed BERRICHI — 2023-02-13

Systems today, and more than ever before, create “tense” work situations, where complexity, contingencies and emergencies coexist (De Bovis & Baret, 2011). The hospital organization because of its specificity, caused by the combination of two characteristics : those of complexity and interactivism, joins in this respect the need to organize and manage oneself as a highly reliable organization (OHF). From the outset, the reliability of the hospital safety model is a major concern involving different levels in the organization, several actors, functions, businesses and processes. With the aim of evaluating the security model prevailing in the Mohammed VI University Hospitaller Centre in Oujda and consequently moving on to the question of how to make it reliable, The purpose of this study is to measure the safety climate of the nursing staff in the institution, in order to study how the nursing staff perceive the efforts made by their management in terms of safety and risk management.

Using a quantitative tool through the questionnaire "Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture", administered to 389 caregivers, all specialties, it will be determined the score of the ten dimensions defining the safety climate and the way to assess the total level of safety climate prevailing at the CHU Mohammed VI-Oujda. The overall level of the safety climate was judged to be unfavorable and all the dimensions were judged to be underdeveloped, with the exception of one, "management support for safety", which was judged not to be developed.

Keywords: Safety culture; safety climate; HSOPSC; nursing staff; CHU.

JEL classification: J28

Paper type: Empirical research

Impact of dematerialization on the governance of Customs and Excise Administration in Morocco

Ismail HAMDAOUI — 2023-02-13

The purpose of this research work is to present the contribution brought on by the introduction of dematerialization on the improvements to the governance of the Moroccan tax system and on the improvement of the quality of services provided to users. Let us draw inspiration from the digital experience of the Customs and Excise Administration (CEA).

Reflections on Morocco's economic development strategy have been the subject of numerous programs aimed at the development of digitalization; these programs contribute to the creation of a dynamic in all sectors, in particular, the upgrading of public administration so that it is at the service of users by providing them with quality services at appropriate timelines. Many organizations, including government agencies, are beginning to digitize their document holdings, making dematerialization a reality. Moreover, we see a wide range of dematerialization projects motivated by various goals and technical options.

Dematerialization can fundamentally influence the flow of administrative documents (such as contracts) between different partners. The fact remains that, if properly managed, dematerialization can facilitate information sharing and thus authorize specific synergies (for example, by increasing maintainability) within an organization.

Today, the completion of several dematerialization projects for its procedures has allowed it to re-energize trade facilitation. Customs clearance in Morocco has now reached a completely new level, with easy access to and use of data, security of transactions, transparency, traceability, speed, reduced costs of archiving, and streamlined control.

The dematerialization of the fiscal perimeter has been accompanied by a reduction in administrative formalities, two measures that, when combined, will allow operators to lower the cost of customs processing.

The Moroccan tax administration in turn has taken up the challenge of digital transformation by complying with the requirements of new public management by introducing dematerialization, in order to give more intensity to its governance.

The main objective of this empirical research article is to explain and understand the reality and test the hypotheses from existing theories, our research methodology adopted is mixed, a descriptive exploratory methodology based on the technique of documentary analysis of reports and studies of the CEA and semi-structured interviews with CEA managers

Keywords: Dematerialization, Public Administration, Governance, Digital, Fiscal governance.

JEL Classification: H10, H50, H83.

Paper type: Empirical research

Risk management of Moroccan participating banks

Mohammed EL KHATTABI — 2023-02-13

Within this industry, risk management is one of the pillars of banking management; this is evidenced by the fact that it currently receives a great deal of attention from market players, by initiating dialogues and stimulating discussions on the best ways to ensure this, in particular by identifying and measuring the risks in question. Far from weakening in use, this attention is only growing, constantly emphasizing the importance of a rational management of these risks.

Indeed, the global financial crisis of 2008 not only revealed the low level of risk management practices among traditional banks affected by the crisis, but also highlighted the solidity and strength of banks in the face of this phenomenon. Participative banks are thus attracted the attention and interest of many people, administering the evidence of their ability to function successfully despite the series of financial and economic crises experienced by the world economy.

The quality of this work lies in the consideration of these different complex aspects of the identification, measurement and risk management in Moroccan participating banks, to try to bring an informed opinion to professionals and practitioners in the field through an exploratory study, and finally answer the following questions: how are present at present, the tools set up by Moroccan participatory banks for risk management?

Keywords: Attractiveness; participatory banking; risk management.

JEL Classification : E50, G20, G32, H12.

Paper type: Empirical research.

Impact of VAT transfers paid by central government to local communities in Morocco: Case of municipalities of the province of TATA and TIZNIT

Brahim ABIDAR — 2023-02-13

This study attempts to find the impact of municipal budget revenues on the level of budget allocation received from the state, in relation to population size, surface area, and political alignments. The study was conducted by the municipalities of the Souss-Massa-Daraa region, specifically the municipalities of Tata and Tiznit. To do this, using data collected at the level of the aforementioned municipalities, a fixed-effects model and a random-effects panel data model were estimated. The use of fixed effects and random effects models in this study is important because it allows for a more accurate estimation of the impact of the independent variables on the dependent variable. A fixed effects model is used to control for unobserved time-invariant variables that may be affecting the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. A random effects model is used to account for the presence of unobserved variables that vary across time and across units. This research question is relevant because it aims to understand how the resources of municipalities affect the level of budget allocation received from the state. This is important because it helps to understand how municipalities are able to provide public services to their citizens. Additionally, understanding how population size, surface area, and political alignment affect the level of budget allocation received from the state can help policymakers to design policies that better support municipalities. The results of this study showed that, overall, the resources of municipalities, regardless of their functioning or investment, population size, and expenses, have a positive effect on the share of the allocation received from the central government. On the other hand, political alignment does not have an effect on the level of transfers, while the size of the municipal surface area has a negative effect on this share.

Keywords: Transfers, redistribution, municipalities, decentralization

JEL Classification: H20, H50.

Paper type: Empirical research

Study of the impact of the duality of trust and management control on the managerial performance of health sector organizations in the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region

Ridallah BOUAZAMA — 2023-02-13

The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of the duality of trust and management control of managerial performance in the public sector, in the case of the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region. More precisely, it is a question of providing a theoretical framework of the management controller-manager relationship, by highlighting the contingency factors likely to influence the managerial relationship. To note the scope of the subject, an explanatory model analyzing the mediating role of trust is proposed. This model is then empirically tested with management controllers. The different results will be presented, analyzed and interpreted. Thus, the ambition of this study is to enrich previous works and provide management control practitioners with an empirical and conceptual explanation. Our study shows that a relationship of trust that develops between the management controller and the manager will increase the productivity of the latter and will also serve as a means of informal control, which reinforces the cooperation and collaboration necessary for the success of the organization.

Keywords: Management control, trust, Cooperation, Management controller-managers relationship, Managerial performance.

JEL Classification: M12, M48

Paper type: Empirical Research

Intangible capital and the prediction of export trends in Morocco: econometric modeling

Ahmed ZOHEIR — 2023-02-13

At the macro level, investment in intangible capital can impact export performance. The stock of accumulated intangible capital can be a major determinant of its success in the economic and trade arena. States seek to establish themselves as ʺ reservoirs ʺ of quality intangible capital. This form of intangible capital accumulation can act positively to boost exports. As such, a ̏important ̏and quality intangible capital stock, via its specific characteristics, can lead to trade openness and structural change in the economy. The level of trade openness depends on the level of accumulation of intangible capital. The theoretical debate around the relationship between the accumulation of intangible capital and the level of exports (via economic openness) is split, at least, on two causal links: the first indicate the role of the stock, assumed to be of quality, intangible capital in the optimization, commercial performance and competitiveness of countries on an international scale. The second highlights the role of the accumulation of intangible capital in strengthening the trade balance through the specific characteristics of the accumulated stock. Similarly, intangible capital can also be a source of economic growth.

This contribution aims to study, in the case of Morocco, the relationship between the indices quantifying intangible capital (exogenous variables) and the process by which they explain export performance (endogenous variable). We trace the intellectual trajectory of this relationship in order to build our theoretical model and to verify it in the case of Morocco. We will use the multiple linear regression method using the R software. The number of observations of our indicators is 30. This work is based on the following problematic: To what extent can intangible capital predict the evolution of exports in Morocco?

Keywords: Intangible capital, Trade openness, Exports.

JEL Classification: E01

Type of paper: Empirical research

The relationship between finance and exports: case of European countries

Zouheir MSATFA — 2023-02-19

The relationship between finance and the volume of exports is a topical subject that has interested and continues to interest researchers and public authorities, the interest of this subject is due to the ambiguity of the results. Some works have favored the role of finance in improving export performance, some authors have indicated the non-existence of a relationship between these two components and others have indicated the negative impact of an underdeveloped financial system on the volume of exports by mentioning that it does not allow the financing of small and medium-sized enterprises to integrate the international market.

Faced with these controversial results, this work aims to re-examine this relationship on a sample of thirty-three European countries characterized by developed financial systems based on the indicator of measurement monetarization of the economy (money supply/GDP %), using the gravity model that has emerged as a widely used approach to analyze and forecast economic variables, especially bilateral trade flows, this work will then measure the effect of financial variables on the exports of countries, The result of our study showed that financial indicators have a negative effect on the volume of exports, which suggests that the system must prepare the necessary funds for companies and mainly small and medium enterprises that will require financing to make their products more competitive and integrate the international market, which will therefore increase the volume of exports and participate in the economic growth of these countries.

Keywords: Finance, Exportation, negative effect, the gravity model

JEL Code: H11

Paper Type: Emprical research.

Determinants of Human Resources Management: Case of the Regional Academy of Education and Training Guelmim-Oued Noun

Mohammed — 2023-02-19

The human resource management process in the education and training sector in Morocco plays an undeniable role in achieving reform. For this, the Ministry of National Education has taken care of this aspect which is among the priorities in the framework law 51.17, in particular project 15, to a set of national programs.

Our research work aims to evaluate the practices of human resources management in the regional academy of education and training – Guelmim Oued Noun Region (AREF GON). We tried to analyze the results, to establish a diagnosis, through an interpretativist epistemological positioning and a logic of hypothetico-deductive reasoning by opting for a qualitative investigation of the exploratory type via semi-directive interviews with 10 managers of the said AREF.

The analysis of the results highlighted a shortcoming in the implementation of HRM practices within AREF GON which remains too limited due to the absence of HR managers and also by the absence of political will. clear and pragmatic. Also, we encountered some limitations due to the unavailability of respondents and sometimes we do not find ourselves in the same HRM register with the respondents.

Keywords: Evaluation, management, HRM, AREF GON.

JEL Classification: O15

Paper type: Empirical research

The impact of HR risk management on the performance of hotel companies in Agadir: discussion of research results and managerial implications

Safae ALAMI — 2023-02-20

The process of any research work is composed of the exposition of the research problem, the development of the theoretical framework, the statement of the hypotheses and the specification of the operational framework. As part of this study, we will try to answer our problem through the evaluation of the dynamics of HR risk management practices based on a quest for performance of hotel companies in the city of Agadir. Of course, these companies must pay more attention to their HR risk management policy in order to offer a more flexible organization. Our choice is justified by the virtual absence of studies on the HR risk management of hotel companies and its impact on performance. Our ambition is therefore to confront the theory with the facts based on a set of hypotheses. In this regard, to carry out a research and allow it to establish its validity and legitimacy, a methodological reflection is essential. We based ourselves on the conceptual framework and the results of the exploratory qualitative survey to develop a survey questionnaire according to a confirmatory protocol of a quantitative nature in order to collect data from our sample. Obviously, the results obtained will be refined by relating them to the conclusions.

Keywords: Hotel Business; Risk management HR; Performance;

JEL Classification: L10, L20, L83, G32, O15

Paper Type: Empirical Research