Quest Journal of Management and Social Sciences
Quest Journal of Management and Social Sciences is published by the Quest Research Management Cell of the Quest International College, Gwarko, Lalitpur, Nepal which is affiliated to Pokhara University. Quest Journal of Management and Social Sciences (QJMSS) is a double-blind peer reviewed scholarly journal devoted in publishing high-quality papers using multidisciplinary approaches with a strong emphasis on emerging issues of business, economics, communication, management, finance, administration, English and social issues in half yearly basis. It was established in 2019 to accommodate qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods of research. It is not for profit and fully abides to UGC and QAA guidelines. Its main purpose is to disseminate ideas and research findings in various socio-economic development and managerial issues related to Nepal and other countries. It brings out scholarly research articles and other features. It intends to serve as an outlet with strong theoretical and empirical research for an intellectual forum for the communication of ideas among social scientists in Nepal and rest of the world. The authors does not have to pay any kinds of publication charges for open access.
Quest Research Management Cell, Quest International College, Gwarko, Lalitpur, Nepal
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The Impact of Influencer Marketing on Brand Loyalty and Credibility: The Mediating Role of Parasocial Interaction
Background: Advertisements that integrate influencer marketing have the potential to foster positive parasocial relationships with the target audience, eliciting a favorable emotional response from customers. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the impact of marketing on brand loyalty and credibility, taking into account parasocial interaction among users. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed an explanatory research approach to evaluate the attributes of influencers that influence consumer loyalty and credibility in the Kathmandu Valley, using the means-end chain model. Convenience sampling is employed in this study as a non-probability sampling technique. Data were collected from 429 respondents using structured questions administered through the KOBO toolbox. Following data collection, the data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The inferential analysis was conducted through structural equation modeling within SmartPLS 4.0. Findings: Findings reveal that Language Similarity and Interaction Frequency have a direct and significant impact on brand loyalty and credibility, with parasocial interaction serving as a mediating factor. The major challenges were identified as a gap between what is promised and what is delivered, and a lack of creativity, which can be minimized by realistic advertisements that showcase actual features and benefits. Conclusion: The study concludes that language similarity and frequent interactions play a critical role in strengthening brand loyalty and credibility, with parasocial interaction serving as an effective mediating mechanism. However, the industry still faces challenges, particularly the mismatch between promised and delivered value, as well as a lack of creative communication. Addressing these issues through authentic, realistic advertisements that highlight genuine features and benefits can significantly enhance consumer trust and long-term brand relationships. Keywords: Influencer Marketing, Brand Loyalty, Credibility, Parasocial Interaction, PLS SEM, Trust, Kathmandu Valley
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Quantitative Trading Strategy, Backtesting, and Performance Analysis Using Python: A Data-Driven Analysis
Background: The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) remains dominated by traditional trading behaviors, often driven by intuition and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), rather than data or models. Despite global progress in algorithmic strategies, quantitative methods remain underutilized in Nepal’s equity market Objectives: This study aims to design, implement, and evaluate a rule-based, long-only quantitative trading strategy tailored for NEPSE, comparing its performance to the standard Buy & Hold approach. The goal is to assess whether systematic models can improve capital protection and risk-adjusted performance in inefficient market settings. Design/methodology/approach: A Python-based backtesting framework is developed, combining momentum and mean-reversion indicators such as the Z-score, Relative Strength Index (RSI), and a 240-day moving average to generate buy signals. Realistic trading constraints are incorporated, including dynamic position sizing based on risk, trade limits, and cool down periods. Performance is benchmarked against Buy & Hold using financial metrics such as CAGR, Sharpe Ratio, Sortino Ratio, Maximum Drawdown, Win Rate, Profit Factor, and Recovery Factor. Monte Carlo simulations, return distribution analysis, and sensitivity checks are applied to ensure robustness. Results: While the strategy does not significantly outperform Buy & Hold in terms of raw daily returns, it shows superior performance on risk-adjusted metrics. It achieves a higher Sharpe and Sortino ratio and significantly lower drawdowns, confirming better risk control and capital preservation. Conclusions: The findings suggest that even simple, rule-based quantitative systems can offer tangible benefits in emerging markets, such asNEPSE by reducing behavioral noise and enhancing portfolio discipline. The study supports the broader adoption of systematic methods in local trading environments. Keywords: Quantitative Trading, NEPSE, Risk Management, Algorithmic Strategy, Backtesting.
Adoption of Information and Communication Technology in Nepalese Small and Medium Enterprises
Background: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become essential for improving efficiency, communication, and competitiveness in modern businesses. However, many SMEs in Nepal still face challenges in adopting digital tools due to limited infrastructure, skills, and resources. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the overall situation of ICT adoption in Small and Medium Enterprises in Nepal. Design/methodology/approach: This study is based on the Technological Acceptance Model. This model posits that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are two key factors that influence people's acceptance and use of technology. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from a primary source. In this study, convenience sampling techniques were employed, with 408 respondents included in the study. Data collection is conducted using the KOBO Toolbox. Structural Equation Modeling is used to examine the overall situation of ICT adoption through descriptive and inferential analysis. The research is based on an explanatory research design. Findings: The study tested twelve hypotheses related to firm size, resources, perceived usefulness, ease of use, attitude towards using, and actual use behavior. In my research, H1, H4, H11, and H12 do not support the test, and the remaining hypotheses have a significant relationship. The majority of the respondents face the challenge of a lack of knowledge about information communication. Conclusion: The findings of the study indicate that employees of the SEMs have a positive behavioral intention, influenced by firm size and available resources. The organization should prioritize enhancing technological literacy and ensuring that its human resources are adequately skilled. There should be proper data security and government support. For the better adoption of ICT by SMEs Keywords: Information communication technology, small and medium enterprise, behavior intention, actual use behavior, attitude and ease of use.
Psychological Empowerment and Performance of Millennials and Generation Z Employees in the IT Sector: Mediating Role of Affective Commitment
Background: In today's technologically advanced and competitive workplace, employee performance has grown more important, particularly as Gen Z and millennials change workplace expectations with stronger desires for autonomy, flexibility, and meaningful work. Understanding how psychological empowerment enhances performance and emotional commitment among younger workforce cohorts is crucial for improving motivation, retention, and long-term organizational sustainability in the rapidly expanding IT sector. Purpose: This study examines the influence of psychological empowerment dimensions (meaning, competence, self-determination, and impact) on the performance of millennials and Gen Z employees in Nepal's IT sector, and how affective commitment mediates these relationships within the dual theoretical perspectives of self-determination and social exchange theories. Design/methodology/approach: Purposively, cross-sectional data were collected from 270 millennials and Gen Z employees involved in technical roles and remote work roles. The structural path was examined using SmartPLS 4.0v. Findings: The descriptive findings demonstrated moderate levels of empowerment and intrinsic motivators as key drivers of performance and emotional attachment in digitally enabled work settings. All the dimensions of psychological empowerment showed significant influence on employee performance, with impact emerging as the most dominant factor and self-determination exerting the least influence. Similarly, affective commitment mediated the relationship between all four dimensions of psychological empowerment and performance. Conclusion: The findings highlight that psychological empowerment serves as a psycho-relational process that converts intrinsic motivation into affective reciprocity, providing multi-level implications for promoting an empowered, emotionally resilient, and high-performing workforce. This study highlights the significance of employees feeling psychologically empowered and emotionally connected in fostering long-term relationships with the organization. Keywords: Affective commitment, employee performance, Generation Z, Millennials, psychological empowerment
Assessing Household's Solid Waste Segregation Behavior in the City of Nepal: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Background: In the context of rapid urbanization and rising municipal solid waste generation, solid waste segregation is crucial for effective management; however, poorly researched behavioral issues in the developing world, including Nepal, hinder its implementation. Purpose: This research examines the psychological, social, and ethical drivers of household waste-segregation behavior in Itahari Sub-Metropolitan City, utilizing a combined framework that integrates the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior (ETPB) and the Norm Activation Model (NAM). Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional survey was conducted, in which 502 households were chosen by using stratified random sampling from urban and semi-urban wards. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique, using SmartPLS4, was employed to analyze both measurement and structural models. Findings: Based on its findings, it has been observed that behavioral attitude, subjective norms, perceived control over behavior, moral obligation, and moral obligation judgment play a critical role in determining the willingness to segregate waste, which, in turn, significantly influences the observability of segregation behavior. Knowledge of environmental outcomes has no substantive effect on intention. It does not have a positive impact on behavior, but a weak yet significant negative relationship with practice indicates the existence of an awareness-behavior gap. These findings underscore the importance of developing moral responsibility, social norms, and perceived self-efficacy rather than relying solely on awareness-based interventions. Conclusion: The paper thus concludes that sustainable household waste segregation behavior in Nepal can be promoted through culture-based, psychologically informed, and infrastructure-based initiatives that extend beyond typical educational campaigns. Keywords: Solid waste, Segregation, Intention Behavior, PLS-SEM
Factors Influencing Social Media Usage and its Impact on the Performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Kathmandu Valley
Background: SMEs are increasingly using social media to improve their visibility, communication, and reach in the market. It has become important to understand what drives SME's social media usage because its adoption influences business performance. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the adoption of social media by SMEs and the relationship between social media adoption and performance. It focuses on the interaction of four key factors: perceived ease of use (PEU), cost-efficiency (CE), compatibility (COMP), and trust (TR), in relation to the social media usage of SMEs and their outcomes, utilizing DOI theory. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed an explanatory research design, collecting data from 240 SMEs in Kathmandu, Nepal, through a structured questionnaire survey. PLS SEM was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings: The results revealed that elements such as perceived ease of use, cost-effectiveness, compatibility, and trust influence social media use among SMEs. The findings also showed that SMU significantly mediated the relationship between PEOU, COE, COMP, and T on SMEP. Conclusion: This study has implications for recognizing the significance and advantages of social media and providing theoretical and practical guidance to inform and support organizations in the strategic adoption of social media for business purposes. Keywords: Social Media Utilization, SME Performance, PLS SEM
Modeling Inflation Dynamics in a Small Open Economy: An ARDL Analysis of Macroeconomic Transmission Mechanisms and Structural Breaks in Nepal
Background: In recent years, many countries, including Nepal have been dealing with continual inflation, largely driven by disruptions in the global supply chain, fluctuations in exchange rates, and domestic structural bottlenecks. As a small open economy with a fixed exchange rate regime and a high dependence on imports, Nepal is particularly vulnerable to external price shocks and policy shifts in its trading partners. At the same time, there is still considerable debate about the extent to which domestic monetary conditions, real sector dynamics, and financial market developments influence Nepal’s inflation pattern, as well as the extent to which structural breaks, such as economic and financial crises, have changed these underlying relationships. Purpose: This study measures the determinants of inflation in Nepal with empirical testing. This paper investigates a critical gap by incorporating a structural break into the ARDL approach, which previous studies have overlooked. Design/methodology/approach: The study incorporates annual time-series data from 1994 to 2024 for Nepal and employs an ARDL model with a structural dummy. Unit root, Chow breakpoint, diagnostic, and Granger causality tests ensure model’s robustness. Findings: The results indicate that there is long-run co-integration among inflation, the exchange rate, and GDP. Exchange rate depreciation significantly drives inflation with a lag, while GDP growth exerts dual effects: short-run moderation but long-run inflationary pressure. Structural breaks have a significant impact on inflationary dynamics, although financial indicators remain insignificant. Conclusions: Nepal’s inflation is simultaneously formed by monetary expansion, fiscal deficit, structural bottlenecks, and exchange rate pass-through. Policy integrity demands inflation targeting, fiscal discipline, and structural reforms to mitigate weakness. Keywords: ARDL Bound Testing, Exchange Rate, Fiscal Deficits, Inflation Dynamics, Structural Break
Impact of Covid-19 on Environment and Socioeconomic Aspects in a Rural Tourism Destination: A Case of Sikles, Nepal
Background: Ecotourism focuses on the protection of flora and fauna, environmental management, poverty reduction, and economic enhancement. Many developing countries utilize it to integrate socioeconomic development with biodiversity conservation, promoting sustainable development. Due to lockdowns and travel restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020-2021, tourism was severely affected. Purpose: This study examines the effects of the global pandemic on tourist visitation and socioeconomy at the community level in Sikles village of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Design/methodology/approach: Eighty questionnaire surveys, two focus group discussions, and five key informants' interviews were conducted to collect primary data, along with secondary data on international tourist flow and revenue generated in Sikles. A 5-point Likert scale was used to assess the spillover impacts of the pandemic on different socioeconomic facets of the local community. Findings: The result of the paired sample t-test shows no significant difference in the average annual income of the people involved in tourism before and during the pandemic in fiscal years 2075/76 and 2076/77 at p > 0.05, despite the pandemic. Unlike most cases, the income from tourism has not changed significantly, even during the pandemic in Sikles. This is because the locals took advantage of the lockdown to promote ecotourism destinations like Hugu, Kori, and Kaphuche on digital platforms, which in turn increased the domestic tourism flow in Sikles. However, there was a significant loss in the revenue collection by ACAP from international tourists. Conclusion: The study concludes that, despite global tourism declines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sikles maintained a stable tourism income due to strong local promotion of ecotourism sites, which boosted domestic visitation. However, ACAP faced significant revenue losses due to reduced international tourism, underscoring the need for diversified and resilient tourism and conservation strategies. Keywords: Ecotourism, COVID-19 pandemic, rural destination, ACAP, crisis, livelihood, socioeconomy
Gen Z Management Students' Awareness of Financial Literacy in Chitwan
Background: The financial literacy is a very important life skill that Generation Z needs and especially among management students as they will act as business leaders in the future. Nevertheless, the multidimensional structure of financial literacy of Gen Z in Nepal is under-researched empirically. Purpose: This research will determine the financial literacy rates among Chitwan management students in Nepal who are part of Generation Z as well as explore the impact of financial literacy, attitude, demography, and environmental factors on financial behaviors and outcomes. Design/methodology/approach: A structured questionnaire was used in collecting data on 318 undergraduate and postgraduate students which was adopted as a quantitative research design. The measurement and structural models were tested by using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) which has reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity and hypothesis was tested by using path analysis. Findings: The findings indicate that students have moderate financial knowledge and positive financial attitudes. Financial knowledge, attitudes and environmental factors are strongly predictive of the financial behaviors and financial outcomes and there is no significant direct impact of demographic factors on the same. Environmental factors were found as the best predictors. Conclusion: The results confirm the multidimensionality of financial literacy which aligns with the 3-Pillar Model and the Social Learning Theory and suggest the importance of context-specific financial literacy interventions in the context of management education in Nepal. Keywords: Financial literacy, Gen Z, management students, financial behavior, digital tools
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Evaluating Access to Credit, Financial Literacy, Technical Know-How, and Government Support in Kathmandu Valley
Background: Women’s entrepreneurship is closely linked to women’s empowerment and entrepreneurial development, both of which play a vital role in driving economic growth. Understanding the determinants of women’s entrepreneurial empowerment is particularly important in developing economies like Nepal, where women’s participation in business activities remains limited despite growing policy attention. Purpose: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the factors influencing women’s entrepreneurial empowerment in the Kathmandu Valley. The research seeks to identify key determinants and assess how entrepreneurial development contributes to women’s empowerment within the local context. Design/methodology/approach: An explanatory research design was adopted, focusing on women entrepreneurs in the Kathmandu Valley as the study population. A purposive sampling method was applied to collect data from 309 respondents. The study draws on the Resource-Based Theory and Entrepreneurship Theory to analyze influencing factors. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM 4.0). Findings: The results show that most women entrepreneurs in Kathmandu are engaged in service-oriented businesses and often initiate their ventures without external credit but with strong family support. Major challenges identified include limited access to funding and difficulties balancing work and family responsibilities. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions such as training and education programs, improved financial access, mentorship opportunities, and networking initiatives. Furthermore, the findings indicate that women’s entrepreneurial development significantly influences women’s empowerment and mediates the relationship between technical know-how and empowerment. Conclusion: Women’s entrepreneurial development plays a crucial mediating role in enhancing women’s empowerment. Strengthening women’s access to resources, knowledge, and supportive networks can promote inclusive economic growth and sustainable entrepreneurship in Nepal. Keywords: Women Entrepreneurs; Resource-Based Theory; Smart PLS 4.0; Technical Know-How; Women Entrepreneurial Development
The Role of Financial Literacy in Investment Decision: A Study in Kathmandu Valley
Background: Financial literacy plays a crucial role in how individuals make investment decisions, guiding them in managing risk, achieving returns, and pursuing long-term financial goals. In a rapidly evolving financial environment, limited financial knowledge can lead to poor decisions, while higher literacy enhances rational investment behavior and financial well-being. Purpose: This research investigates financial literacy, investment decisions, and challenges faced by Nepalese families in Kathmandu Valley. Recognizing the crucial role of financial literacy in sound decision-making. The study examines the socio-demographic characteristics and challenges that influence investment choices. The objective of this study is to analyze the role of financial literacy in investment decisions. Design/methodology/approach: Explanatory research design is used in this study. A total of 408 urban Nepalese families from the Kathmandu Valley were selected as a sample using the convenience sampling method. The Theory of Planned Behavior is used. To examine the data, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. SEM was used to analyze the data. Findings: According to this study, market volatility, lack of financial knowledge, emotional biases, and the difficulty in finding suitable investment opportunities are the major challenges faced when making investment decisions. Respondents recommend managerial remedies, including online resources and workshops on financial awareness. Investment decisions are significantly impacted by financial behavior, knowledge, skills, and money management, as confirmed by the structural model. Conclusion: The study concludes that financial behavior, knowledge, skills, and money management have a significant impact on investment decisions, while financial attitude has no direct impact on investment decisions. The results provide complex insights into how urban Nepalese families make financial decisions. Keywords: Theory of Planned Behavior, Financial Literacy, Investment Decision, Kathmandu Valley, Structural Equation Modeling
Corporate Governance and Bank Performance: Evidence from Employee Perspectives in Nepalese Development Banks
Background: Corporate governance ensures accountability, Transparency, and effective management in organizations, playing a crucial role in the stability and performance of banks. In Nepal, weak governance has historically contributed to banking crises, highlighting the need for stronger governance frameworks. Purpose: This study examines how corporate governance practices influence both financial and non-financial performance in Nepalese development banks, with a focus on employee perspectives. It aims to identify gaps and provide insights to enhance the effectiveness of governance and foster stakeholder trust. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopts an explanatory research design supported by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Primary data were collected from 407 employees across various development banks using a random sampling approach, out of which 384 responses were retained for final analysis. A structured survey instrument based on a five-point Likert scale was administered through the KOBO Toolbox. The data collected were processed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques in MS Excel and Smart PLS 4.0 to assess trends, relationships, and the strength of governance influences. Findings: The results indicate that the Board of Directors, Audit Committee, and Transparency and Disclosure exert significant positive effects on non-financial performance, which in turn enhances financial performance. Conversely, CEO Duality shows no significant impact, highlighting that concentrated leadership roles do not necessarily contribute to better organizational outcomes. These findings reinforce the importance of robust governance mechanisms in driving organizational effectiveness. Conclusion: The study concludes that effective governance, particularly through active boards, strong audit committees, and transparent practice, is vital for enhancing both financial and non-financial performance in Nepalese development banks. The results offer practical implications for policymakers and bank management, emphasizing the need to strengthen oversight, promote ethical leadership, and reinforce Transparency to improve organizational stability and performance. Keywords: Corporate governance, bank performance, regulatory compliance, personnel management
Adoption and Utilization of Information Technology in Agriculture: Evidence from Rupendehi, Nepal
Background: The use of information technology (IT) in agriculture is expanding globally however, its adoption among farmers in Nepal remains uneven. Several factors, including education, location, cost of equipment, and political support, may affect how farmers integrate IT tools into their farming practices. This situation is particularly relevant in mixed farming areas such as the Rupandehi district. Purpose: The main objective of this study is to identify the major factors that influence farmers' adoption and use of IT in Rupandehi, Nepal. It also seeks to examine how variables such as educational background, financial condition, policy support, and geographic location affect IT adoption and to relate these outcomes to previous studies. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was applied using a structured questionnaire distributed to 402 farmers. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test relationships between education, political support, equipment cost, and geographic location as predictors of IT adoption. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were examined using Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis. Findings: The findings from SEM revealed that political support had the strongest positive impact on IT adoption (β = 0.497, p < 0.001), followed by equipment cost, which had a moderate positive effect (β = 0.175, p < 0.001). Unexpectedly, higher levels of formal education were found to have a negative relationship with IT adoption (β = −0.258, p < 0.001), whereas geographic location had no significant effect. The model explained 73.8% of the total variance in IT adoption, confirming its reliability and validity. Conclusion: The study concludes that consistent political and extension support, affordable equipment, and practical digital training are essential for promoting agricultural digitalization. The negative influence of higher education suggests a need for more targeted, context-based digital skill programs. Future qualitative research across multiple districts is encouraged to explore these findings further. Keywords: Agriculture, Adoption, Information Technology, Rupandehi, Nepal
Customers’ Acceptance of Anti–Money Laundering Practices in Banks: Evidence from Kathmandu Valley
Background: Money laundering undermines financial transparency and stability by disguising illegally obtained funds and integrating them into the legitimate economy. Its growing complexity poses global and national risks, including in Nepal, where regulatory efforts face challenges in enforcement, technology, and public awareness. Purpose: This study analyzes the insights of customers within the Kathmandu Valley on banks' implementation of anti-money laundering practices. Design/methodology/approach: This study utilized an exploratory research design to investigate the subject matter. Non-probability sampling methods were employed to gather data, resulting in a total of 408 samples collected through Kobo Toolbox. The data analysis employed both descriptive and inferential techniques, with descriptive analysis providing an overview of the basic features of the data and inferential analysis facilitating broader conclusions. The analytical process was conducted using Excel for data management and SmartPLS 4.0 for structural equation modeling, enabling a thorough examination of the relationships between variables. Findings: The results indicate that customer awareness, discomfort, and trust have a significant influence on attitudes, which in turn strongly predict customer acceptance of AML practices. Mediation analysis further confirms that attitudes significantly mediate all three relationships, highlighting their central role in shaping AML compliance behavior. Conclusion: This study concludes that customers' awareness of money laundering and terrorism financing, their trust in banking secrecy measures, and their levels of discomfort with AML requirements all play significant roles in shaping their acceptance of banks' AML practices. Notably, the research emphasizes the role of attitude as a mediating factor in this relationship. Customers' attitudes influence how their awareness, trust, and discomfort translate into acceptance of AML practices. Key Words: Anti Money Laundering, Know your Customers, Banks, Awareness, Trust, Discomfort, Acceptance
Financial Literacy and Financial Well-being of Business School Faculties: A Study in the Context of Nepal
Background: Financial literacy plays a vital role in achieving financial well-being through informed financial decisions. Globally, many studies highlight its importance, linking knowledge, attitude, and behavior to financial stability. However, in Nepal, especially among business school faculties, limited research has examined how financial literacy influences their overall financial well-being. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of financial literacy on the financial well-being of business school faculties in Nepal. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed a positivist research philosophy and adopted a causal comparative research design, utilizing cross-sectional data. A total of 407 business school faculties were surveyed using purposive sampling, a non-probability sampling technique. A five-point Likert scale structured questionnaire was employed. Data was collected through field surveys and analyzed using descriptive statistics, measurement modeling, and structural equation modeling (SEM) with Smart PLS 4.1.1.2. Findings: The results confirm that financial literacy significantly impacts financial well-being. Strong financial knowledge, a positive financial attitude, and effective financial behavior all improve well-being among business school faculty members. Conclusion: The study concludes that enhancing financial literacy improves the financial well-being of business school faculty members. Strengthening knowledge, attitude, and behavior in financial matters is crucial for long-term financial security. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and educational institutions to develop effective training and support programs. Keywords: Financial Literacy, Financial Knowledge, Financial Attitude, Financial Behavior, Financial Well-being, Business School Faculties
Determinants of Electronic Payment System Use in the Kathmandu Valley: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach Integrating TAM and TPB
Background: The growing digitalization of financial transactions, driven by rising internet penetration in Nepal, has accelerated the adoption of electronic payment systems. However, understanding the determinants influencing users' behavioral intentions remains critical for sustainable growth. Purpose: This study aims to examine the key factors shaping customers' perceptions and adoption of e-payment systems in the Kathmandu Valley by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) within a unified analytical framework. Design/methodology/approach: An explanatory research design was employed, collecting data from 433 customers of commercial banks in the Kathmandu Valley through convenience sampling. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were performed, while Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to evaluate the relationships among variables derived from TAM and TPB constructs. Results: The findings reveal that awareness of e-payment systems is high, primarily driven by exposure to social media. Most respondents actively use e-wallets and online gateways for bill payments and mobile transactions. Nevertheless, security concerns remain a major barrier, significantly affecting users' trust and satisfaction. The constructs of perceived usefulness, ease of use, and customer satisfaction emerged as strong predictors of behavioral intention toward e-payment usage. Conclusion: The study highlights the need to enhance system security, simplify user interfaces, and reinforce trust-building mechanisms. Service providers and policymakers should prioritize security improvements, promote awareness of benefits, and continuously refine digital payment platforms in response to user feedback and technological advancements. Keywords: Electronic payment, technology acceptance model, theory of planned behavior, structural equation modeling, behavioral intention, Kathmandu Valley
A SERVQUAL Model Analysis for Users' Satisfaction of Ride Sharing Service in Kathmandu Valley
Background: Ride-sharing services have emerged as an alternative mode of urban transportation in Kathmandu Valley, aiming to address issues such as traffic congestion and limited public transport options. However, user satisfaction with these services remains uncertain due to varying service quality and operational challenges. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to assess the user's satisfaction with the ride-sharing service in Kathmandu Valley. Specifically, the study assesses the current status of ride-sharing services in the Kathmandu Valley to examine the impact of service quality on user satisfaction with ride-sharing services in the Kathmandu Valley, to identify the various challenges faced by ride-sharing services, and to propose potential solutions to address these challenges. Design/methodology/approach: This study adopted an explanatory research design. Expectation confirmation theory (ECT) is used for the study because SERVQUAL is based on the expectancy-disconfirmation paradigm, which states that service quality is defined as the degree to which consumers' pre-consumption expectations of quality are confirmed or contradicted by their actual perception of the service experience. The primary data for this study were collected from 417 respondents, using a non-probability convenience sampling method. Structured questions were administered through the KOBO toolbox to gather the necessary information. The collected data were then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in MS Excel and SmartPLS 4.0. Findings: Tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, and empathy directly influence users' satisfaction in using ride-sharing services in the Kathmandu Valley; however, assurance had no direct influence on users' satisfaction. In the context of using ride-sharing services, Nepali customers are not yet accustomed to using ride-sharing services compared to developed countries. Besides, the major challenges faced by ride-sharing service users include long wait times, safety concerns, unavailability of rides, unfriendly or unprofessional driver behavior, pricing issues, vehicle cleanliness, payment options, and difficulty using the app. The major solutions to the challenges are short wait times, enhanced safety measures, sufficient ride availability, friendly or professional driver behavior, better pricing models, improved vehicle maintenance, more driver training programs, easy-to-use apps, and more payment options. Conclusion: This study concludes that tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, and empathy have a positive and significant relationship with users' satisfaction, whereas assurance is insignificantly correlated with user satisfaction. Keywords: Ride-sharing Service, Users' Satisfaction, SERVQUAL Dimension, Service Quality, Kathmandu Valley
Social Protection in Shaping Labor Migration Decisions among Youth in South Asia: A Bibliometric Analysis
Background: Labor markets in developing countries often face structural challenges, including limited opportunities, informality, and rising inequalities, that push many young people to migrate in search of better livelihoods. As social protection systems evolve, they increasingly shape migration decisions by reducing risks, supporting mobility, and influencing how youth respond to labor market constraints. Purpose: In South Asia, labor potential exceeds fragile market structures, nudging migration. The study aims to consolidate fragmented research across labor, migration, and social policy, providing an integrated understanding of how welfare mechanisms influence migration decisions and labor mobility. Methodology: A bibliometric analysis was done using the Scopus database (1991–2024), following the PRISMA framework for systematic selection of studies. Initially, there were 556 records; only 254 peer-reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria. Using the VOS viewer and the bibiloshiny package in R, co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrence, and citation structures were mapped to identify intellectual patterns and thematic evolution. Findings: The bibliometric analysis shows a shift from theoretical debates on globalization and market flexibility to applied studies on migration, informality, and social protection. The collaboration pattern is fragmented but gradually expanding, signaling potential for stronger global and interdisciplinary engagement. Post-2022 research, shaped by the COVID-19 crisis, emphasizes inequality, resilience, and marginalized labor, redefining social protection as a proactive and adaptive mechanism for inclusive labor systems. Conclusion: Social protection emerges as both stabilizing and enabling, shaping migration through risk minimization and behavioral incentives. The field is maturing toward an integrated labor–migration framework, though regional and conceptual gaps persist. Keywords: Labor migration, social protection, Youth employment, Bibliometric analysis, South Asia