Research Article
The Advertiser’s Dilemma on YouTube: Balancing Ad Irritation with Informational and Entertainment Value
Muhammad Ali Khan*
,
Haseeb Ullah
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-11
Received:
12 September 2025
Accepted:
4 February 2026
Published:
24 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.iecon.20260101.11
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Abstract: This study investigates the dual role of YouTube as a platform for both user gratification and commercial advertising, exploring the complex interplay between positive user experiences and disruptive ad encounters. To address this, the paper develops and empirically tests an integrated model that examines how social and entertainment gratifications, alongside perceived ad irritation, collectively influence advertising value and user intentions. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, gathering data from 359 active YouTube users. The relationships in the proposed model were tested using Pearson correlation analysis. The findings indicate that social gratifications positively enhance entertainment value and that both entertainment and informational content can increase advertising value, though through different mechanisms. Crucially, the study uncovered a counter-intuitive positive correlation between ad irritation and perceived advertising value, challenging the conventional view that annoyance universally destroys value. Theoretically, this research contributes a holistic framework that integrates Uses and Gratifications (U&G) theory with Psychological Reactance Theory (PRT) and Media Context Theory. Practically, the findings provide actionable insights for advertisers, highlighting the need for context-aware strategies that balance ad intrusiveness with the user's primary motivation for viewing, whether it be for entertainment or information.
Abstract: This study investigates the dual role of YouTube as a platform for both user gratification and commercial advertising, exploring the complex interplay between positive user experiences and disruptive ad encounters. To address this, the paper develops and empirically tests an integrated model that examines how social and entertainment gratifications...
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Research Article
The Role of Islamic Mutual Funds in Economic Development: Contemporary Insights and Policy Perspectives (2014-2024)
Said Sami Al Hallaq*,
Anas Ghazalat
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
12-27
Received:
2 November 2025
Accepted:
26 January 2026
Published:
24 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.iecon.20260101.12
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Abstract: This paper examines the evolving role of Islamic Mutual Funds “IMFs.” as strategic instruments for promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development during the period 2014–2024. Grounded in the ethical and moral framework of Shari‘ah, Islamic mutual funds have emerged as vital financial intermediaries that mobilize savings, enhance financial inclusion, and channel investments into productive, asset-backed sectors of the real economy. The study integrates both theoretical and empirical perspectives, linking the finance–growth nexus with Islamic principles of equity, transparency, and social justice. Empirical evidence indicates that global Islamic fund assets exceeded USD 250 billion by 2024, with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Malaysia leading in innovation, regulatory advancement, and market integration. Case studies from these regions demonstrate that Islamic mutual funds have become key enablers of capital formation, infrastructure financing, SME development, and employment generation, thereby supporting Vision 2030 initiatives and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, and 10). These funds not only provide competitive financial returns but also promote ethical governance, transparency, and resilience against speculative volatility. Despite this progress, the sector continues to face challenges such as regulatory fragmentation, limited market liquidity, and shortages in human capital with dual expertise in Shari‘ah and finance. To address these constraints, the paper proposes policy recommendations focused on regulatory harmonization, digital transformation, ESG integration, and professional capacity-building to strengthen the industry’s role in sustainable development. Ultimately, Islamic mutual funds demonstrate that profitability and social purpose can coexist within a framework of moral capitalism, offering a viable model for ethical financial intermediation in the twenty-first century.
Abstract: This paper examines the evolving role of Islamic Mutual Funds “IMFs.” as strategic instruments for promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development during the period 2014–2024. Grounded in the ethical and moral framework of Shari‘ah, Islamic mutual funds have emerged as vital financial intermediaries that mobilize savings, enhance financial...
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Research Article
Appraisals of Tricycle Operations as Tools for Employment Creation in the Asokore Mampong Municipality of Ghana
Yahaya Mohammed*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
28-34
Received:
21 August 2025
Accepted:
27 January 2026
Published:
24 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.iecon.20260101.13
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Abstract: This study examines the role of commercial tricycle operations in employment creation and income generation within the Asokore Mampong Municipality. The findings reveal that tricycle transportation has emerged as a significant livelihood option for many residents, particularly in response to low wages and limited opportunities in the formal and informal job sectors. A considerable number of individuals who are engaged in tricycle riding for profit reported that their involvement was motivated by dissatisfaction with earnings from previous occupations, while others were drawn into the sector due to persistent unemployment. As a result, commercial tricycle operations have made a significant contribution to reducing unemployment by absorbing a substantial segment of the municipality’s jobless population. Survey results indicate that an overwhelming majority of respondents (94.68%) agree that the use of tricycles for commercial purposes has facilitated employment opportunities for unemployed residents in the municipality. Only a small proportion (5.31%) of respondents expressed disagreement, suggesting a broad consensus on the employment benefits associated with the tricycle transport sector. Beyond job creation, respondents also emphasised the economic advantages derived from the tricycle value chain, which includes riders, owners, mechanics, fuel vendors, and spare parts dealers. Interestingly, the study reveals that tricycle riders are perceived as the primary beneficiaries within this chain, even though most riders do not own the tricycles they operate. Instead, many riders work under ownership arrangements, renting or operating tricycles on a daily sales basis for private owners. Even under such arrangements, riders reportedly earn relatively higher and more stable incomes compared to other actors involved in the tricycle business. Overall, the findings suggest that commercial tricycle operations play a crucial role in livelihood diversification, employment creation, and economic resilience in the Asokore Mampong Municipality, highlighting their importance in local economic development strategies.
Abstract: This study examines the role of commercial tricycle operations in employment creation and income generation within the Asokore Mampong Municipality. The findings reveal that tricycle transportation has emerged as a significant livelihood option for many residents, particularly in response to low wages and limited opportunities in the formal and inf...
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