Threats and Vulnerabilities of the Banking System to Money Laundering in the Arab Maghreb: Lessons from a Regional Sectoral Assessment

This research paper conducts a sectoral assessment of the threats and vulnerabilities faced by the banking systems of the Arab Maghreb—specifically Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Libya, and Mauritania—regarding money laundering and terrorist financing. The main objective is to identify and compare structural and operational weaknesses across the region’s banking sectors, with a focus on internal controls, regulatory compliance, and the effectiveness of supervisory frameworks. The study hypothesizes that institutional fragmentation, inconsistent supervision, and insufficient risk management contribute significantly to these vulnerabilities. Methodologically, the research employs a qualitative comparative approach, drawing on national sectoral risk assessments, semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, and a review of regulatory and institutional frameworks, structured around the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) methodology. Key findings reveal a moderately high level of vulnerability within the Maghreb banking sector, driven by deficiencies in beneficial ownership identification, inconsistent regulatory enforcement, limited technological and analytical capacity, and insufficient staff training. High-risk areas include large-scale cash transactions, politically exposed persons, real estate, and the use of digital and crypto-asset channels. The study also highlights the impact of the informal economy, transnational organized crime, and weak trade oversight as external risk factors. Notably, the risk-based approach (RBA) has yet to be fully institutionalized, and supervision remains largely compliance-based rather than risk-sensitive.The implications of these findings underscore the urgency of strengthening internal controls, adopting advanced technological solutions, enhancing staff training, and modernizing regulatory frameworks in line with international standards. Recommendations emphasize the need for improved inter-authority coordination, adoption of risk-based supervision, and greater regional and international cooperation to mitigate evolving money laundering and terrorist financing threats. The research concludes that aligning Maghreb banking systems with global best practices is essential for enhancing financial integrity and resilience

Studying the impact of the Green Deal on the EU economy using Gradient Boosting Algorithm

 This study aims to assess the impact of the European Green Deal on the EU economy by employing a Gradient Boosting Algorithm to analyze the influence of various environmental policies. The study utilizes simulated monthly data derived from annual statistics provided by official sources such as the IEA, Eurostat, ILO, and the European Commission. A machine learning model—Gradient Boosting—is implemented to examine the predictive relationships between economic indicators such as environmental taxes, green infrastructure investment, renewable energy, and green employment on industrial output.     Results indicate that environmental taxes are the most influential factor affecting industrial performance, followed by green infrastructure and renewable energy investment. Green innovation funding and green employment show lesser impact. The Gradient Boosting model demonstrates strong predictive accuracy with an R² score of 0.930. Policymakers should consider balancing fiscal regulations with incentive-based green investment strategies. Greater support for green innovation and employment training is essential to enhance long-term sustainability

Exploring the role of social enterprises in improving local development in the Philippines : DOCHSEi’s case

This research investigates the role of social enterprises in fostering local development in the Philippines, with a particular focus on the Davao Oriental Coco Husk Social Enterprise, Inc. (DOCHSEi). The study aims to elucidate how social enterprises, especially those in which the poor are principal stakeholders (SEPPS), contribute to economic, social, and environmental development at the local level. Employing a case study methodology combined with qualitative analysis of secondary data, the paper examines DOCHSEi’s initiatives in transforming coconut husk waste into value-added, eco-friendly products, thereby creating employment opportunities for marginalized groups and promoting sustainable community development.Key findings reveal that DOCHSEi significantly contributes to local development by generating jobs, reducing poverty, empowering women and youth, and mitigating environmental degradation through innovative waste management. The enterprise’s activities have enhanced social inclusion, increased household incomes, and provided a model for sustainable, community-led economic growth. However, the research also identifies critical challenges, including limited access to financing, regulatory hurdles, and the need for greater ecosystem support.The study concludes that social enterprises like DOCHSEi are vital catalysts for inclusive growth and poverty alleviation in the Philippines. It underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, policy support, and sustainable business models in scaling the impact of social enterprises. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and social entrepreneurs seeking to leverage social innovation for local development

Industrial Clusters and Their Role in Enhancing the Strategy of Developing Small and Medium Enterprises to Encourage Exports: A Study of the Italian and German Experience During 2024

 This research examines the pivotal role of industrial clusters in enhancing the export strategies of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the Italian and German contexts in 2024. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding how industrial clusters specifically influence the strategic development and international competitiveness of SMEs, focusing on the mechanisms through which clustering facilitates innovation, resource sharing, and collaborative networks. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates qualitative insights from stakeholder interviews and case studies with quantitative analysis of export statistics and performance metrics. Key findings reveal that participation in industrial clusters significantly boosts SMEs’ export activities—with 75% of cluster-engaged SMEs reporting increased export volumes—through improved access to specialized knowledge, supply chain efficiencies, and collective marketing efforts. Both Italian and German clusters demonstrate pronounced benefits, though with distinct operational emphases: Italian clusters leverage traditional craftsmanship and niche markets, while German clusters prioritize high-tech advancements and operational efficiency. The study underscores the importance of tailored policy frameworks and government support in fostering cluster development, highlighting the need for continued investment in training, digital transformation, and institutional partnerships. The results provide actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders to strengthen SME export capabilities and regional economic resilience in an increasingly competitive global landscape

Corporate Carbon Transparency in the EU: The Transformative Role of IFRS Sustainability Standards in Auditing and Reporting (2025)

 This study investigates the transformative impact of IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (S1/S2) on corporate carbon transparency within the European Union's evolving regulatory framework. Against the backdrop of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), we analyze the effectiveness of these standards in addressing critical gaps in carbon disclosure assurance, particularly for Scope 3 emissions. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we combine quantitative analysis of 50 EU firms' sustainability reports (2024-2025) with qualitative insights from 22 key stakeholders, including auditors, policymakers, and corporate leaders. Our findings reveal significant sectoral disparities in compliance, with only 28% of firms achieving full Scope 3 reporting and high-emission sectors underreporting by 25% (p < 0.1). The research demonstrates the crucial role of audit quality, as Big 4-audited reports showed 38% higher reliability             (p < 0.01), despite 35% of auditors lacking adequate IFRS S2 expertise. Notably, our analysis shows CSRD's policy bundling approach (combining reporting mandates with assurance requirements) proved 2.6 times more effective than standalone carbon pricing measures (β = 0.47 vs. 0.18). These results underscore the need for sector-specific materiality thresholds, enhanced auditor training, and greater global harmonization of sustainability standards to support the EU's transition to net-zero emissions by 2050. The study contributes to ongoing debates about environmental accountability while offering practical insights for policymakers, corporations, and standard-setters navigating the complexities of carbon transparency

Digital Transformation and its Impact on the Performance of Banks in Algeria during the Period (2013-2023)

This research paper investigates the impact of digital transformation (DT) on the performance of Algerian banks from 2013 to 2023. It aims to highlight DT's role in improving bank performance by potentially increasing profitability and liquidity, reducing costs, and expanding customer reach and examines Algeria's strategic push, notably through the Monetary and Banking Law n°23-09, which institutionalizes digital banking and a central bank digital currency. Methodologically, the study employs a descriptive analysis of DT concepts and banking performance, coupled with an analytical approach to secondary data from official national and international reports, covering financial and non-financial indicators. Key findings reveal significant regulatory advancements and infrastructural development. Important results include the Real   Time Gross Settlement System (ARTS) processing 449,686 transactions valued at 112,535.82 Algerian Dinar (DZD) and the Automated Transfer and Compensation System for Interbank Transactions (ATCI) handling 74.77 million transactions valued at 22,958.5 billion DZD in 2023. Despite progress in electronic payments and card services, the adoption of digital banking in Algeria faces challenges, including infrastructural limitations and low public trust. The study implies that while foundational digital elements are being established, sustained investment in infrastructure, digital literacy, and trust   building is crucial for Algerian banks to fully realize the performance benefits of DT and enhance competitiveness

The dynamic impact of ICT on the economic growth in the developing countries

This paper explores the impact of the information communication and technology (ICT) on the economic growth in the developing countries, the study collect a data for 33 years (1990-2022) and a panel of eighteen developing countries , the purpose is to evaluate how the using of the ICT’s impact the economic growth in the short and long term. Employing a panel series and an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) co-integration approach. Our research incorporates some key economic indicators such as GDP growth, individual using of the internet (INT), mobile cellular subscriptions (MCS), and gross fixed capital formation (GFCF). Our empirical results indicate a co-integration link between the variables based on Westerlund test. The results of (PMG-ARDL) reveal that (INT) negatively affect the GDP growth in both the short and long run, those results elucidate that a 1% increase in (INT) results in a -1.02% and -0.03% growth in growth economic. However, the same output showed that the MCS positively effect the economic growth, in the long term, a 1% increase in the MCS results in a 0.001% growth in the GDP growth, and a 0.04% in the short run. The robustness check using (CS-ARDL) showed that the ICT is negatively affect the economic growth in both short and long run. The causality test indicate that both of MCS and INT cause the economic growth

Challenge of Adapting Marketing Concepts and Tools to The Territory

This research paper investigates the necessity and process of adapting traditional marketing concepts and tools to the unique context of territories, aiming to enhance their attractiveness for targeted groups at both national and international levels. The study posits that the distinctive characteristics of territories require specific adaptations of marketing strategies to achieve effective positioning and competitiveness. Through a theoretical analysis of territorial marketing principles—including brand adaptation and investor relationship management—the research explores how coordinated collaboration among territorial actors strengthens a territory’s competitive edge. Key findings highlight the importance of tailored territorial offers, cohesive stakeholder engagement, and the strategic use of both tangible and intangible assets. The paper contributes an actionable framework for building strong territorial identities and underscores the significance of continuous relationship management with investors for sustainable development. The results affirm that successful territorial marketing not only boosts economic performance but also cultivates community belonging and long-term investor loyalty

Navigating the Shift: De-Dollarization, BRICS Strategies, and the Evolving Global Financial Architecture

The global financial system, historically dominated by the US dollar since the 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement, is undergoing a significant transformation as BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) pursue de-dollarization to reduce reliance on the dollar in trade, reserves, and financial systems. Driven by economic vulnerabilities, geopolitical tensions (e.g., sanctions and the Russia-Ukraine conflict), and technological innovations (e.g., cryptocurrencies and blockchain), these efforts aim to mitigate exposure to US monetary policy and dollar weaponization. BRICS strategies include promoting alternative currencies (e.g., China’s Renminbi), establishing parallel financial institutions (e.g., New Development Bank), and leveraging digital payment systems. However, challenges persist, such as the dollar’s entrenched dominance, internal BRICS divergences, and technical barriers. The shift suggests a gradual move toward a multipolar monetary system rather than an abrupt dollar collapse, with implications for global economic governance, financial stability, and geopolitical power dynamics. Case studies of China, Russia, and Pakistan highlight diverse approaches, from bilateral trade agreements to sectoral energy transitions. This research underscores de-dollarization as a complex, multidimensional process integrating economic, political, and technological factors, signaling an evolving but not yet displaced dollar-centric order

The Effect of Quality Management System on Sustainability of Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development in the Northern State of Sudan: The Mediating Role of Consulting Engineering Works and Engineering Professional Ethics

This study investigates the mediating role of Consulting Engineering Works (CEW) and Engineering Professional Ethics (EPE) in the relationship between Quality Management System (QMS) adoption and the sustainability of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development (MIUD) in the Northern State of Sudan. The research, motivated by observed weaknesses in the Ministry’s performance indicators—affecting economic, environmental, and social sustainability—aims to assess the significance and impact of QMS, CEW, and EPE on Ministry’s Sustainability (MS). Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected via questionnaires from 223 ministry employees, analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and structural equation modeling (SEM) through SPSS and AMOS.Key findings reveal that QMS has a high importance level, while CEW, EPE, and MS are of moderate importance. Path analysis demonstrated a statistically significant direct impact of QMS on MS (standardized effect = 0.584), as well as a full mediating effect of CEW and EPE together between QMS and MS, with a standardized indirect effect of 0.743 and total effect of 0.641. The results confirm that QMS implementation enhances CEW and EPE, which in turn drive the Ministry’s sustainability. The study highlights the necessity for integrating strong quality management, ethical standards, and professional engineering practices to achieve sustainable development in public infrastructure institutions