Browsing by Author "Dr. Syed Atif Ali"

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Analyzing the Failure of Uber in Pakistan
(2025) Muhammad Uzair Imran CIIT/FA23-RBA-019/LHR; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 9804
This research explores the multifaceted reason behind Uber's failure in Pakistan despite global dominance in the industry. The company launched in Pakistan in 2016 and has managed to gain a lot of attraction in major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore and to Karachi. However, the company ceased its operations in 2022 and transferred its services to Careem which is one of the regional subsidiaries that continues to thrive in the market of Pakistan. The abrupt exit of Uber from high potential market raises a lot of concerns related to the local market adaptations for multinational corporations, especially those that are mainly driven by technology. Uber standardized strategy failed to account for Pakistan`s social culture, regulatory and economic dynamics. The major contributing factor that leads to a downfall of the company includes cultural mismanagement especially related to the gender norms and language barriers along with the rigid pricing model that affects the price sensitive customers. The company failed to realize the low-tech infrastructure as most of the customers are adapted to cash based payment mechanism. The regulatory framework across provinces further affects the overall sustainability of Uber. Meanwhile, their competitors integrate with the local cultural values and offer cash friendly system to the customers which helps with increasing customer trust through localized communications. This report overall compares the strategic rigidity of Uber and its failure that causes exit of the company from Pakistan.
Examining the Impact of Fintech Based Financial Inclusion on Poverty and Income Inequality: A Study of Low and Lower Middle Income Countries
(Library Information Services COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, 2023-02-09) Muhammad Umar Shahbaz; FA2O-RMS-007; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 8764
Financial market imperfections such as information asymmetries, market segmentation, and transaction costs hinder poor people's access to formal financial goods and services, preventing them from escaping the poverty. UN Sustainable development goals includes the alleviation of income inequality and poverty from the world till 2030 and for the achievement of these goals financial inclusion is indispensable. Emergence of financial technologies paved the ways for financial inclusion. The data of twenty-three low and lower middle income countries for six years was used in this study. An index of fintech based financial inclusion which measured the three dimensions of fintech based financial inclusion such as supply (Access), demand (Usage) and overall access and usage for twenty-three countries was also developed and its impact was examined on poverty and income inequality by using the two step system gmm and fixed effect technique. It has been found out that fintech based financial inclusion demand side index (Usage) have negative impact on poverty. Whereas, Fintech based financial inclusion supply side index (Access) have positive impact on poverty and income inequality. Moreover, fintech based financial inclusion overall index has negative impact on poverty when fixed effect method was used but have positive impact on poverty when the two step system gmm was used. Furthermore, Fintech based financial inclusion overall index have positive impact on income inequality. This implies that fintech-based financial inclusion, rather than mitigating income inequality, exacerbates it. The core rationale behind these findings lies in the understanding that income inequality is a persistent, long-term issue that cannot be significantly reduced within a short timeframe. This research sheds light on the nuanced effects of fintech-based financial inclusion on poverty and income inequality, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, long-term strategies to address these challenges.
How to Survive in Financial and Economic Crisis:( A Case Study of Airlink Communication LTD)
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2024) Mudasir Nazir CUI/SP24-RBA-007-LHR; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TIP 9812
This case documents how Airlink Communication Ltd, a leading mobile phone distributor and manufacturer in Pakistan not only survived but thrived in what can arguably be called “Pakistan's worst ever financial and economic crisis of 2022–2023”. During this period, Pakistan was going through a critical period of intense inflation, devaluation of currency and tight import controls which were a huge threat to businesses especially ones which relied heavily on imports like Airlink. Airlink, though a market leader, was not immune to the downturn. In 2023, its revenue dropped 20%, while its earnings per share (EPS) decreased by 41.74%. But the company implemented robust survival techniques to cope with the crisis. One of the most significant being the move towards local manufacturing that lessened reliance on imports and fell in line with the government’s ‘Make in Pakistan’ drive. This had been beneficial to Airlink in allowing it to stabilise operations and to control costs well. Another major contributing factor is the Rs 6 billion raised last year via its 2021 IPO, which gave it the financial buffer necessary to operate without having to take costly loans. Airlink also took a machete to its costs, streamlined its supply chain and diversified into e-commerce and regional sales to keep revenues ticking along. The Company took proactive financial risk management measures including exchange rate and price monitoring, and the negotiation of flexible payment terms with suppliers. These initiatives have served to mitigate the effects of inflation and of foreign currency risk. These two approaches in combination spurred an impressive come back by 2024. Airlink reported revenue of PKR 129.74 billion and EPS stood at Rs. 11.70 with an appreciation of 367%. The case of Airlink shows that, even during such severe economic uncertainty, a combination of the right timing, sound financial principles, and nimbleness can allow a company to not just make it through but also grow in the long run. This paper acts as a convenient manual for startups, entrepreneurs, investors and government officials in the developing world who want to understand how to better manage financial crises.
IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BANKING SECTOR OF PAKISTAN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ISLAMIC AND CONVENTIONAL BANKS
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2020) USVA FATIMA; SP17-BAF-002; Dr. Syed Atif Ali
Financial institutions specifically banking sector plays an essential role in day to day business life (Sultan & Siddique, 2010). In recent decades, Islamic banking experienced very rapid growth and the global financial crises of 2007 to 2009 has also contributed to accelerate its growth not only in Islamic countries but also in the rest of the world as well (Tarazi & Abedifar, 2020) because financial crises shed doubts on the stability and proper functioning of conventional banks (Milhem & Istaiteyeh, 2015; Beck, Demirgüç-Kunt, & Merrouche, 2010). So along with the increasing uncertainty in the worldwide, it is presumed that such trend will move further upwards with the COVID-19 pandemic crises (Tarazi & Abedifar, 2020).
Impact of Working Capital Management on Profitability: Evidence from Pakistan Textile Weaving Sector
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2025) SHAHZAD HUSSAIN; CIIT/SP24-RBA-027/LHR; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 10098
Working capital management plays a vital role in determining the financial performance and sustainability of firms, particularly in manufacturing sectors where efficient utilization of short-term assets and liabilities is critical. The textile weaving sector in Pakistan, being one of the largest contributors to exports, employment, and industrial output, operates in a highly competitive and capital-intensive environment. In this context, effective working capital management becomes essential for maintaining liquidity while enhancing profitability. This study investigates the impact of working capital management on the profitability of firms operating in the Pakistani textile weaving sector. The primary objective of this research is to examine the relationship between working capital components—namely cash conversion cycle (CCC), accounts receivable period, inventory turnover period, and accounts payable period—and firm profitability. Profitability is measured using Return on Assets (ROA). The study employs a quantitative research approach using secondary data extracted from the audited annual financial statements of selected textile weaving firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The data covers a period of multiple years to ensure robustness and reliability of results. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and panel regression techniques are applied to analyse the data and test the hypotheses. The empirical findings reveal a significant relationship between working capital management and profitability. Specifically, a shorter cash conversion cycle and efficient management of receivables and inventory are found to have a positive impact on firm profitability. Conversely, excessive investment in working capital components adversely affects financial performance by increasing financing costs and reducing operational efficiency. The results of this study provide valuable insights for financial managers, policymakers, and investors within the textile sector. Efficient working capital management can enhance profitability, improve liquidity, and strengthen the overall financial health of firms. The study recommends that textile weaving firms in Pakistan adopt optimal working capital policies by minimizing receivable days, improving inventory control, and strategically managing payables without harming supplier relationships. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing sector-specific empirical evidence from Pakistan’s textile weaving industry. It also highlights the importance of balancing liquidity and profitability to ensure long-term growth and competitiveness in emerging markets.
Major Reasons of Delays in Construction of Public Sector Projects: A case of Pakistan
(Library Information Services COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, 2023-02-09) Muhammad Naeem Akhtar Janjua; SP20-RPM-001; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 8766
The construction industry is a vital factor for the development of any country. It is a significant contributor in the economy and providing employment opportunities. The global significance of the construction industry is so high that its market size reaching trillions of dollars. This study specifically focuses on the causes of delays in construction sector projects, particularly in the Public Sector of Pakistan. The findings reveal that delays in public sector construction projects in Pakistan are influenced by political, bureaucratic, financial, technical, and managerial issues. To minimize these challenges, the study proposes measures such as effective project management, streamlined approval processes, skilled workforce development and transparent financial practices. Timely completion of construction projects especially in Public Sectors of Pakistan can contribute more efficiently to the country's development.
Relationship of Financial Planning, Financial Stressors, and Financial Satisfaction; The Moderating Role of Financial Self-efficacy
(Library Information Services COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, 2023-02-09) Zainab Kanwal; SP20-RPM-015; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 8768
With the ever-increasing inflation in the country, people are always stressed about their expenses which often leads to increased financial stress and low financial satisfaction. Financial stressors and decreased financial satisfaction cause low quality of life and significantly impact the overall family especially the marital relationships which in some cases leads to divorce. Due to high living expenses and increased financial stress people are forced to work overtime which causes detrimental impact on the health of the individuals. The purpose of this research is to determine whether financial self-efficacy or the application of financial planning techniques can both increase financial satisfaction under the same types of financial stressors. Financial stressors, financial planning, financial satisfaction, and financial self-efficacy were all examined in the study. The goal of the study is to comprehend how these variables interact and affect a person's level of financial satisfaction. In this study, the hypothesis is tested using a quantitative method. The 28-question survey was created by carefully implementing the scales found in published works. Women who were actively earning money online through platforms like Facebook, YouTube channels, freelance websites, and e-commerce, among others, were given a survey in order to gather credible data for the relationships among financial planning, financial stressors, financial self-efficacy, and financial satisfaction. These findings highlight the beneficial relationship between financial planning and people's level of financial satisfaction. A well-rounded approach that reduces uncertainty and increases financial satisfaction can be implemented by people through budgeting, goal-setting, and efficient spending management. However, there was shown to be a negative correlation x between financial stressors such as debt or unforeseen expenses and financial satisfaction. Improving a person's financial satisfaction requires skillfully handling and lowering these stressors. A significant discovery from this study is the moderating function of financial self-efficacy. Individuals with higher financial self-efficacy are more likely than those with lower levels to accomplish their goals and deal with financial challenges in an effective manner. It has been observed that financial self-efficacy reduces the detrimental effects of financial stressors, which eventually raises financial well-being and satisfaction. This study emphasizes the need for a thorough financial planning strategy, identifying and resolving financial stressors, and taking up the empowering impact of financial self-efficacy in order to improve financial well-being and satisfaction.
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS, EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND GREEN PERFORMANCE
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2020) Rana Usman Ahmad; FA16-BBA-066; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 6720
It is an alarming situation that the climate of the whole world is changing drastically. The change that is taking place is destroying the climate. The pollution is increasing at a very alarming rate alongside carbon emissions (Amato, 2010). The main reason for this pollution is the industrial sector. In the industrial sector, there are a lot of SMEs, MNC’s, MNE’s. Alongside it, the pollution is caused by the vehicles due to carbon emissions, according to a report a vehicle emits 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year (Myles. Allen, 2009).
Safe Haven Investment in Green Bond against Chinese Sectoral Stocks: Portfolio Diversification Perspective
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2024) Mobeen Ahmad; CIIT/FA22-RMS-006/LHR; Dr. Syed Atif Ali; LHR TP 9414
This study investigates the safe-haven role of Chinese green bonds against the Chinese industrial sectors' returns over the period of December 16, 2018, to December 14, 2023. By considering significance of financial investments and environmental considerations in global financial markets, understanding the potential of green bonds as a safe-haven asset is very important. To evaluate the performance of Chinese green bonds during extreme market conditions, the study employs a recently introduced cross quantilogram (CQ) approach. Furthermore, this research utilizes BEKK models to investigate the spillover effects between Chinese green bonds and industrial sectors that shed light on the interconnectedness within different markets. In doing so, the study contributes to the valuable knowledge of risk management strategies in financial markets. In a practical context, the calculation of hedge ratios and assessment of hedging effectiveness are integral components of this research, offering a nuanced understanding of the magnitude and viability of utilizing Chinese green bonds as an investment decision tool. The findings of CQ predict that Chinese green bond provides a strong safe haven against Chinese health, financial and real estate sectors for short-term investment horizon. It means that the risk associated with these sectors can be offset by making investments in green bond. However, green bond can be used to minimized the risk associated to energy, materials, industrials, consumer discretionary, information technology, communications services, utilities, and consumer staples sectors in short term period. Similarly, the findings of BEKK model confirm that conditional variances of all sector returns are affected by the level of their past conditional variances. Moreover, there is a bi-directional volatility effect for all sectors. The highest mean hedge ratio between green bond and financials has been found, thus, providing a greater hedging opportunity. Afterward, the green bond with health care and consumer discretionary has a higher mean hedge ratio. The findings of this study hold significance for investors, financial institutions, and policymakers seeking to navigate volatile markets while incorporating sustainable investment practices
The Impact of Financial Inclusion on Poverty Alleviation: Moderating and Mediating Effect
(Library Information Services COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, 2023-02-09) Farooq Ahmad; SP20-RMS-016; LHR TP 8763; Dr. Syed Atif Ali
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the impact of financial inclusion on poverty alleviation with moderating effect of microfinance and mediating effect of financial literacy Design/methodology/approach: In order to fulfil the objectives of the study, primary data were collected from 300 users of microfinance banks using multistage stratified convenience sampling technique. Respondents are the people who used the microfinance services. They are usually self-employed business owners who operate out of their homes. The PLS-SEM method was used to analyze the data that was gathered for this study. In particular, PLS-Graph (Chin, 2010) and Smart PLS (Ringle, Wende, & Will, 2005), two popular PLS- SEM software programs, were used for the analysis and output display. Findings: Study results reveals that financial inclusion positively affects poverty alleviation and this effect is further enhanced by the presence of microfinance and financial literacy. The relationship between financial inclusion and poverty alleviation is represented by the mediating effect of financial literacy. Originality/Value: The study makes contribution towards financial inclusion literature relating to poverty alleviation and fulfils the research gap to some extent by assessing the impact of financial inclusion on poverty alleviation through microfinance and financial literacy. This paper can help the policymakers and other stakeholders of microfinance banks in promoting banking habits among poor rural households at the national level. Limitations: The cross-sectional data used in the study may make it more difficult to establish causal linkages because temporal fluctuations in the variables are not well represented. Data constraints, such as the lack of current and reliable financial literacy x information, may have an impact on how precise the study's conclusions are. It may have overlooked qualitative details that could have added to a thorough comprehension of the intricate relationships between the variables. The study may oversimplify the complex dynamics at work by failing to account for the wide variety of microfinance programs and their differing effects on the variables listed.