Management Insight

Addressing Workplace Bullying: Promoting Employee Wellbeing Through Effective Coping Strategies

Anuradha Asthana — 2025-03-08

In the world of unprecedented digitalization and ruthless competition, every industry and businesses globally are vulnerable to
obsolescence and disruptions; that are accounting due to evolving technology, rampant digitalization and evolving customer
expectations/ requirements.
Stringent timelines, scope creeps, ever changing requirements and disruptive technologies are an inseparable element within
organisations in current business landscape and have paved way for micro management, regular monitoring and performance anxieties;
which leads to volatility and ultimately breeds in the concept of “Workplace bullying”.
For an organization to stay ahead of the curve and stay competitive it is important that they have high performing, motivated, engaged and
agile workforce who are aligned and committed to organization’s success. In the current business context, it is critical for the organization
world over to strike a balance between engaged and high performing workforce.
Through the Systematic review of the literature and studies carried out in the areas of workplace bullying, employee engagement, and
coping strategies; this paper investigates the impact that the bullying at workplace can have on the wellbeing indices of an employee,
within the organization It also intends to explore as to how employees leverage coping strategies to help them cope with and alleviate the
demons of bullying at work

Investors Sentiments in Cryptocurrency

Ashraf Akhter — 2025-03-08

The cryptocurrency market, characterized by its extreme volatility and speculative nature, poses significant risk and reward opportunities
for investors. This paper explores the dynamics of risk and volatility within cryptocurrency markets, with a focus on Bitcoin, Ethereum,
and other leading digital assets. Drawing exclusively on data from widely recognized online financial sources, this study examines the
interplay between cryptocurrency volatility and traditional asset behaviour under market stress conditions. Key crisis events—including
the 2016 Brexit referendum, the 2017 market correction, and the 2020 COVID-19 crash—serve as case studies to highlight how
cryptocurrencies diverge in risk profiles from conventional assets like Gold and the S&P 500. Additionally, correlations between
Bitcoin, Gold, and US Treasury Bonds illustrate the nuanced hedge potential of cryptocurrencies in both short- and long-term investment
horizons. This analysis underscores the importance of understanding cryptocurrency behaviour as it matures, while providing insights
into the broader financial implications of incorporating these assets into traditional portfolios amidst economic uncertainties.

Assessing the Appeal of Mutual Funds: A Study on Investor Preferences and Market Trends

Ratish C Gupta — 2025-03-08

The product portfolio of the Indian Mutual Fund industry, has suddenly expanded with the addition of money market funds, index funds,
gilt funds, sector-specific funds, tax benefit funds, and more. This gives investors a wide range of options depending on their preferred
investment strategy to help them reach their own financial objectives.
In this study with the help of an extant literature view , gap analyses regarding investors’ preferences and attractiveness of investing in
mutual fund has been conducted to determine the gaps in Decisions About Investments and the Influenced by Behavioural Factors,
Fintech and Digital Platforms' Impact, Governance, Social, and Environmental (ESG) Aspects, Perception of Investors via Longitudinal
Studies, The Impact of Regional and Cultural Disparities and The Effect of Communication and Marketing Techniques

Analyzing the Association between Demographic Variables and Perceived Organizational Politics, Political Skills, Work Performance and Stress of Faculties at Higher Education Institutions in India

Pooja Singh — 2025-03-08

The study attempted to examine the association between socio-demographics, human capital variables, faculties perceived
organizational politics (POPs), political skill (PS), work Performance, and stress. And, to analyze the relationship between POPs, PS,
work stress and performance of faculty members at higher education institutions. Non-probability methods employed to collect data and
adopted constructs from previous research tailored to the present study’s needs. In addition, the study employed a t-test, one - way
ANOVAand Pearson’s correlation matrix to examine the relationship between variables. The results of the study indicated that the sociodemographic and human capital variables partly significantly associated with POPs, PS and job outcomes among academia in higher
education institutions. Additionally, perceived organizational politics and political skills had a negative effect on work performance,
while perceived organizational politics were positively linked to political skills and workplace stress among academia. The study
contributes to a better understanding about the effect of workplace politics. In addition, helps the faculties, higher education authorities as
well as the Government to understand the effects of POPs and simultaneously the role of PS in effectively handling workplace situations
of the organizations.

Decoding the Indian Luxury Consumer: A Market Entry Strategy for Alexander McQueen

Indrani Sengupta — 2025-03-08

The luxury industry encompasses high-end goods and services characterized by exceptional quality, prestige, and exclusivity, targeting
affluent consumers. Defined by Cambridge Dictionaries (2014) as "great comfort," luxury revolves around perceived value exceeding
tangible benefits (Mullock,). Key segments include apparel, jewellery, watches, automobiles, hospitality, and fine arts. Driven by the
allure of status symbols, the luxury market thrives on limited availability and distinct brand identities. Despite economic fluctuations, it
remains a robust sector, with the global market projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2022 to 2030, reaching US$369.8 billion
(Dublin, 2014). Key markets include the US (US$53.1 billion in 2022), China (US$42.4 billion by 2030), Japan, Canada, and the AsiaPacific region.
This study delved into the factors influencing the purchasing behavior of Indian luxury consumers, including cultural values, social
status, brand perception, and shopping habits, examining the existing luxury market in India, analysing competitive advantages, and
market trends. Based on these insights, the research proposes a comprehensive market entry strategy for Alexander McQueen,
encompassing product adaptation, pricing strategies, marketing and communication strategies, and cultural sensitivity. The study will
contribute to a better understanding of the Indian luxury market in this dynamic and lucrative scenario.

Digital Transformation of Varanasi's Unorganised Retail: A Systematic Review of Barriers and Prospects

Jyoti Yadav — 2025-03-08

One of the oldest cities in India, Varanasi, presents opportunities as well as challenges for the digital transformation of its unorganized
retail sector. The potential for digitizing the city's traditional retail businesses is examined in this study, which also identifies significant
barriers like cultural resistance, low digital literacy, and inadequate technology infrastructure. Many small retailers struggle with the cost
of implementing digital systems and worry about losing their traditional clientele. Digital solution implementation is further complicated
by the sector's informal nature. Despite these barriers, there are a lot of prospects of digitization. It can increase the market reach of
regional retailers, simplify supply chains, and improve inventory management. Digital payment systems can encourage financial
inclusion and lessen reliance on cash, while tailored e-commerce platforms for Varanasi's distinctive products could increase tourismrelated sales. The study highlights that focused digital literacy initiatives, affordable technology, and encouraging governmental
regulations are necessary for a smooth transition. Varanasi's retail industry can embrace the advantages of the digital economy while
preserving its legacy by removing these obstacles and seizing opportunities.

An Analysis of the Post-Merger Performance of Punjab National Bank and Canara Bank Using the CAMEL Model

Madhu Bhartia — 2025-03-08

Mergers and acquisitions serve as essential strategies for banks to realign their structures, broaden their portfolios, and accelerate growth.
The Indian banking landscape has witnessed substantial transformation in recent years due to rising competition from new entrants,
technological advancements, globalization of financial services, shifting customer preferences, and a focus on providing diverse
offerings at lower costs. These changes have led to strengthened banking systems through consolidation efforts. This research utilizes the
CAMEL framework to evaluate the financial performance and stability of Punjab National Bank and Canara Bank in the post-merger
phase, covering the fiscal years 2019-2020 to 2023-2024. The analysis highlights that Punjab National Bank demonstrated superior
performance compared to Canara Bank, which faced challenges in areas such as capital adequacy, asset quality, and liquidity. Addressing
these critical aspects was imperative for Canara Bank to improve its financial standing. The results highlight a significant difference
between the two banks' performance over the assessed time frame.

Attrition challenges of Drivers in Prime Logistics in Bhiwadi (Guwahati), West Assam

Sweta Singhal — 2025-03-08

Mr. Shubham (Protagonist and Entrepreneur) has started his transport company in 2019 focussing on providing good and timely services
to their customer. In October2021, he found that 6 drivers have left out of 26 in this month which was an alarming situation for the
sustainability of his company. He immediately called up his manager Mr. Ajay to know the reason for attrition. He always believed in
providing help to his staff as and when required for their family and medical emergencies. The compensation paid to his drivers in case of
accidents and medical emergencies maximum amounting to rs 25000/-.annually. He holds a management degree and wants to re-work on
his business strategies and business model so that it comes out to be innovative and sustainable in nature.
In the early morning of October 10th, 2021, the phone bell rang when Shubham owner of Prime Logistics and Services limited, was
entering his cabin. He picked up the phone it was a call from his old customer complaining of the non-delivery of the consignment. This
incident has happened thrice in 2 weeks receiving complaints of non-delivery or delay in delivery of products. He wondered what was
happening in the company? He called a meeting with his manager Ajay, who looks after the customer relations and a decision-maker on
behalf of him. He wanted an immediate action into the matter. Ajay, the very day elaborated on the issue, he was confronting with the
drivers in past few weeks as some of them have left without notice. He wondered what was the sudden reason for attrition among them?
Shubham established his new enterprise in March 2019 and followed the same principle of retaining the truck drivers which his father, Mr.
Vinod (business-man) did to gain their commitment and loyalty. He provided them with all the benefits and facilities to increase their
well-being. He thought that if the attrition rate of drivers increased on the similar scale it will surely create a sudden impact on the
performance and good-will of the company. He proposed a meeting with Ajay (decision maker), backend team and Union leader to meet
at 10am to discuss about the upcoming challenge. The next day, the owner, manager and the union leader met at the fixed time to discuss
about the issue as decided. The backend team also while during conversation complained of not able to manage the trip with the drivers. It
was found that to retain drivers now had become a huge task? It is due to they are looking for a better opportunity and there is a need to rework with the HR policies which should aim at retention and overall development of their staff. He wants to know what are the factors
responsible for drivers attrition in the company and its percentage rate of declining in the near future so that they can forecast the short fall
easily.

Unveiling the Shadowy Tactics: A Case Study Analysis of Dark Patterns in Marketing Strategies”

Priyanka Arora — 2025-03-08

In the realm of digital marketing, the emergence of dark patterns has raised ethical concerns regarding user manipulation and trust
erosion. This research paper delves into the prevalence, mechanisms, and implications of dark patterns in marketing strategies across
various industries. Drawing upon a thematic literature review and comprehensive case study analysis, the paper highlights the deceptive
tactics employed by marketers to influence user behavior and examines their impact on consumer trust and perceptions of brands.
The literature review synthesizes insights from seminal studies, emphasizing the ethical dimensions of dark patterns and their effects on
user trust, privacy, and decision-making. Through empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks, it elucidates the psychological
mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of dark patterns in shaping user experiences. Legal and regulatory perspectives underscore the
importance of addressing deceptive design practices to safeguard consumer rights and promote transparency in digital environments.
The case studies presented offer real-world examples of dark patterns in online retail, social media, streaming platforms, and travel
agencies. By analyzing the design elements and their impact on users, the case studies reveal the ethical complexities inherent in
contemporary digital marketing practices. From hidden costs and false urgency tactics to manipulative pricing and obfuscated privacy
settings, the pervasive use of dark patterns underscores the need for ethical guidelines and responsible design principles.
In conclusion, this research underscores the imperative for companies to prioritize transparency, honesty, and user empowerment in their
marketing strategies. By unveiling the shadowy tactics of dark patterns and advocating for ethical design practices, the paper aims to
foster a more transparent, ethical, and consumer-centric digital ecosystem. Moving forward, interdisciplinary collaborations and
regulatory interventions are essential for curbing the misuse of dark patterns and promoting trust and integrity in digital interactions.