NOLEGEIN-Journal of Operations Research & Management

Investment Ties as Supply Chain Signals: Leveraging Reciprocal and Triadic FDI Networks to Optimize Multi-Tier Sourcing, Bidirectional Logistics Corridors, and Shock-Resilient Regionalization

Bhargav Chebrolu — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Global supplier networks are increasingly influenced by cross-border foreign direct investment (FDI), which shapes how sourcing relationships emerge, concentrate, and evolve across multiple supply chain tiers. This study reframes an FDI-based network perspective as a strategic decision-support tool for multi-tier supply chain configuration and risk governance. By applying a count-based network modeling approach, the research interprets reciprocal investment ties as indicators of dependable two-way logistics channels and interdependent supplier–buyer relationships. In contrast, transitive connections – where investment links close through shared partners – are used to identify industrial clustering that can simultaneously enhance operational resilience and amplify systemic disruption risks. The proposed framework combines traditional gravity-based market factors with endogenous network dynamics to explain how investment relationships diffuse across production systems. This integration allows managers to anticipate how structural investment patterns influence supplier reliability, coordination efficiency, and geographic concentration. The findings indicate that mutually reinforced investment ties are associated with lower onboarding costs and smoother coordination for both upstream and downstream flows. However, highly interconnected triadic structures, while offering scale efficiencies and knowledge spillovers, also increase vulnerability to cluster-wide shocks. From a managerial perspective, the framework enables informed portfolio rebalancing by highlighting locations that combine strong market fundamentals with manageable levels of network closure. Such insights support strategic decisions related to supplier diversification, dual sourcing, nearshoring, and buffer placement. Overall, the study provides actionable guidance for aligning procurement, logistics, and financial strategies to reduce spillover risk while maintaining access to specialized production capabilities.

The Economics of Stabilizing Crude Oil

V. Basil Hans — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Crude oil prices have historically exhibited significant volatility, creating persistent challenges for macroeconomic planning, fiscal management, and energy market stability. Such fluctuations affect inflation, government revenues, investment decisions, and energy security across both oil-exporting and oil-importing economies. This article examines the economic rationale and practical effectiveness of crude oil price stabilization, focusing on the roles played by governments, producing nations, and market institutions in managing price uncertainty. Drawing on established theoretical models of commodity price behavior and empirical evidence from major historical oil price cycles, the study evaluates key stabilization instruments, including strategic petroleum reserves, production quotas, sovereign fiscal buffers, and market-based mechanisms such as futures and hedging instruments. The analysis highlights the inherent trade-offs between efforts to stabilize prices and the efficient functioning of markets, while also considering the distributional and welfare implications across different economic groups and regions. The findings suggest that absolute price stabilization is neither feasible nor desirable, as price signals remain essential for resource allocation and technological innovation. However, well-designed and flexible stabilization frameworks can significantly reduce macroeconomic vulnerability, support long-term investment planning, and enhance resilience during periods of external shocks. The article further emphasizes the importance of coordinated international policy responses and adaptive stabilization strategies to address evolving energy market dynamics and to support a smooth transition toward more sustainable energy systems.

A STUDY ON PROFIT PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF SELECTED LEADING SOLAR FIRMS IN INDIA

Maheshbhai R. Sanga, KripalSinh R Rathod, Khushali M Oza — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The rapid expansion of solar energy in India has created a dynamic and competitive environment for leading firms operating in the renewable sector. Despite significant growth, limited firm-level research exists on how solar companies differ in their profit performance. This study evaluates the profitability of five selected solar firms in India – Adani Green Energy, Tata Power Solar, Sterling & Wilson Renewable Energy, Solar Industries India Ltd., and Jackson Investments Ltd. – over a five-year period from 2020–21 to 2024–25. Secondary data were collected from annual reports and moneycontrol.com, and profitability was assessed using key financial indicators: Net Profit Margin, Return on Net Worth/Equity, Return on Capital Employed, Return on Assets, and Asset Turnover Ratio. A one-way ANOVA (F-test) at a 5% significance level was applied to examine whether significant differences existed among the firms.The findings reveal that there is no significant difference among the selected companies in terms of Net Profit Margin, Return on Capital Employed, and Asset Turnover Ratio. However, significant differences were observed for Return on Net Worth/Equity and Return on Assets, indicating varying levels of financial efficiency, equity returns, and asset utilization across firms. Tata Power Solar and Solar Industries India Ltd. consistently performed stronger in profitability indicators, whereas companies like Jackson Investments Ltd. and Sterling & Wilson Renewable Energy showed weaker or highly volatile profitability trends. The research emphasizes performance differences caused by variations in business models, financial frameworks, and operational effectiveness. The analysis underscores the need for deeper financial benchmarking within the solar sector and provides insights useful for investors, policymakers, and managers aiming to strengthen financial sustainability in India’s rapidly evolving solar industry.

Analysis of the Economic Status of Beneficiaries of the E-Nirman Scheme (In the Context of Bhavnagar District)

Rubinaben N. Solanki, Lalit L. Chauhan — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Government welfare schemes play a vital role in strengthening the economic condition of socially and economically disadvantaged sections of society. In this context, the E-Nirman scheme introduced by the Government of Gujarat for construction workers represents an important initiative aimed at improving their socio-economic well-being. The scheme provides various welfare benefits such as financial assistance, insurance coverage, health support, and educational aid, with the objective of enhancing the living standards of beneficiary families. The present study examines the impact of the E-Nirman scheme on the economic status of construction worker households in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. The study is based on primary data collected through a survey method using structured questionnaires and personal interviews. A sample of 30 beneficiaries was selected to analyze changes in their annual income and annual expenditure before and after availing the scheme benefits. Comparative analysis was carried out to assess economic variations, and the Paired Sample t-test was applied to examine the
statistical significance of the observed changes. The findings of the study reveal a significant increase in the annual income of beneficiaries after the implementation of the E-Nirman scheme. Additionally, noticeable improvements were observed in expenditure patterns, indicating better financial planning and reduced economic pressure. The statistical results confirm that the changes in both income and expenditure are significant. Overall, the study concludes that the E-Nirman scheme has had a positive
impact on the economic stability of construction workers, contributing meaningfully to improving their standard of living and promoting long-term financial security.

Strategic Shadowboxing in India–U.S. Relations: A Decadal Review (2014–2024)

Manika Jain, Aman Pandey — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This article aims to analyze the trajectory of India–U.S. relations over the decade from 2014 to 2024, with a focus on key developments, outcomes, and prospects of the bilateral partnership. During this period, the strategic relationship between the two countries evolved significantly, influenced by economic interests, political priorities, and shared ideological concerns. The formation of a strategic alliance progressed across different phases, shaped largely by converging interests in regional stability
and global governance. However, the relationship was not without constraints. India’s pursuit of an independent and sovereign foreign policy, coupled with U.S. reluctance on certain strategic and trade-related issues, occasionally created disagreements and policy friction. The paper examines the distinctive features that define contemporary India–U.S. relations, highlighting how mutual concerns –particularly regarding China’s growing influence – have contributed to the gradual strengthening of ties. A comparative analysis of the three U.S. administrations reveals notable variations in approach: President Obama emphasized defense cooperation and strategic partnerships; President Trump adopted a transactional, deal-oriented approach; while President Biden renewed emphasis on multilateralism, institutional frameworks, and alliance-based diplomacy. The study employs a theoretical framework grounded in international relations theories to analyze policy continuity and change under the administrations of Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. The findings suggest that while policy intent and strategic vision are crucial, the real measure of success in India–U.S. relations lies in effective policy implementation.

An Analysis of Cryptocurrency and Its Influence on Conventional Financial System

Shikha Dua, Bhoomi Rawat — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study explores the growing influence of cryptocurrency on traditional banking systems, focusing on how decentralized digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple are transforming the financial landscape. The research examines the disruptive impact of cryptocurrency on core banking functions, including fund transfers, lending, and monetary policy execution. The paper offers a sophisticated grasp of the opportunities and difficulties presented by this financial innovation by fusing theoretical analysis with empirical data. Primary data was collected from 120 respondents who were aware about with cryptocurrency. The survey results revealed that a significant majority of respondents perceived cryptocurrency as transparent, efficient, and secure alternatives to traditional banking services. Many participants highlighted the enhanced transparency offered by blockchain technology, which allows for immutable and publicly verifiable transactions, thereby increasing trust among users. The findings suggested that while cryptocurrency represented a competitive threat to traditional banks, they simultaneously created new opportunities for financial innovation. This included promoting greater financial inclusion by reaching underserved populations, offering novel customer-centric services, and driving operational efficiencies within the financial sector. Ultimately, the research concluded that a future characterized by the coexistence of cryptocurrency and traditional banking institutions was not only feasible but increasingly probable. This coexistence would, however, depend on the willingness of both systems to adapt—through technological advancements, regulatory evolution, and collaborative frameworks—to meet the demands of an evolving digital financial landscape.