Page 4733

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





"The Role of Financial Reporting and Analysis in Enhancing
Business Performance"
: Evidence from Agro-Processing Firms in

Emerging Markets
Kyakunzire Annet Mitchel1, Sunday Arthur2, Eton Marus3, Eliab Byamukama Mpora4

Kabale University, Uganda

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.1208004129

Received: 12 Sep 2025; Accepted: 20 Sep 2025; Published: 24 October 2025

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the role of financial transparency, collaborative governance, financial analysis, and
reporting practices in shaping the financial performance and resilience of small and medium enterprises
(SMEs) in the Ankole region of Uganda. Using qualitative interviews with SME owners, managers, and
finance officers, the research explores how financial management tools—ranging from basic budgeting apps to
sales forecasting—enable strategic planning and risk management. Findings reveal that enhanced financial
analysis supports proactive decision-making, operational discipline, and growth readiness, while persistent
challenges in financial reporting hinder access to credit and sustainable expansion. The study underscores the
importance of context-appropriate financial technologies and capacity-building initiatives to bridge financial
management gaps. Implications for policy and practice include fostering inclusive financial governance and
targeted digital solutions tailored for resource-constrained SMEs. This research contributes to understanding
SME resilience in volatile economic environments and offers pathways for improving financial management in
similar developing contexts.

Keywords: SMEs, financial transparency, financial reporting, strategic planning, risk management, financial
analysis, budgeting.

INTRODUCTION

Financial reporting and analysis are critical components of business management that significantly influence
the performance and sustainability of firms, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Accurate and
comprehensive financial reporting facilitates transparency and accountability, enabling managers and
stakeholders to make informed decisions that support business growth and competitiveness (Harif, Osman, &
Hoe, 2010; Dwivedi, Kesari, & Dwivedi, 2014). The qualitative aspects of financial reporting—such as clarity,
relevance, and timeliness, play a vital role in shaping how business leaders interpret financial data and translate
it into effective strategies (Mang'ana, Hokororo, & Ndyetabula, 2023).

Research has demonstrated that financial reporting serves as a communication tool between business owners
and external stakeholders, including investors and creditors, who rely on accurate information to assess firm
viability and performance (Johnsen & McMahon, 2005; Kamau, 2022). Moreover, financial analysis enables
firms to identify operational strengths and weaknesses, manage risks, and optimize resource allocation, thereby
enhancing business performance (DBilan, 2021; Sanchis-Llopis, 2018). The adoption of effective financial
reporting and management practices has been linked to improved financial outcomes and sustainable growth
(Fadil & St-Pierre, 2021b; Fan, 2023).

Despite its importance, many SMEs face challenges related to inconsistent financial reporting standards,
limited managerial expertise, and inadequate resources, which can undermine the quality of financial
information and hinder business performance (Karadağ, 2018; Msuthwana, 2024). Qualitative insights into
how managers perceive and utilize financial reporting can reveal barriers and opportunities for enhancing its
effectiveness. Understanding these perspectives is crucial to designing interventions that improve financial

Page 4734

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





management practices and ultimately contribute to better organizational outcomes (Harif et al., 2010; Dvorský
et al., 2023).

This study aims to explore the qualitative impact of financial reporting and analysis on business performance
by examining managerial perceptions and experiences in SMEs. By focusing on the role of financial reporting
in strategic decision-making, risk management, and stakeholder relations, this paper contributes to the growing
literature on financial management practices in emerging and developing markets (Dwivedi et al., 2014;
Mang'ana et al., 2023). Through qualitative data, the study seeks to deepen the understanding of how financial
reporting influences business success beyond quantitative financial metrics.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Financial reporting and analysis are fundamental to the effective management and performance of businesses,
particularly in SMEs, where resource constraints often amplify the importance of sound financial practices
(Harif, Osman, & Hoe, 2010). Effective financial reporting provides vital information that supports decision-
making, enhances accountability, and facilitates access to finance (Dwivedi, Kesari, & Dwivedi, 2014). The
adoption of robust accounting and financial management practices has been linked to improved business
outcomes in various contexts, from agricultural SMEs to manufacturing firms (Mang'ana, Hokororo, &
Ndyetabula, 2023; Fan, 2023).

The relationship between financial reporting quality and firm performance has been a focus in multiple studies.
For example, Johnsen and McMahon (2005) emphasize the influence of owner-manager capabilities on the
effective use of financial reports, which in turn drives business growth. Similarly, Kamau (2022) notes that
debt financing decisions, closely linked to financial reporting transparency, significantly impact the expansion
of SMEs. These findings underscore the pivotal role of financial information in shaping strategic business
outcomes.

Qualitative research highlights that managerial perceptions of financial reporting affect how firms use financial
data for planning and control (Dvorský, Belas Jr, Çera, & Bilan, 2021). Inadequate financial literacy and
inconsistent reporting practices often restrict SMEs from leveraging financial data to mitigate risks and
improve performance (Karadağ, 2018). Moreover, research by Dvorský et al. (2023) stresses the importance of
integrating corporate social responsibility (CSR) and crisis management within financial reporting to enhance
overall financial management in SMEs.

The adoption of financial reporting practices is also influenced by external factors such as education level and
market environment. Msuthwana (2024) illustrates how the education level of SME owners in South Africa
impacts the quality and utility of financial reports, subsequently affecting firm performance. Similarly,
Dwivedi et al. (2014) observe that in regions like Uttar Pradesh, India, the use of formal accounting systems
and financial management practices remains limited, which curtails SMEs’ ability to fully benefit from
financial reporting.

Further, qualitative insights reveal that financial reporting is not just a compliance activity but a strategic tool
that can foster transparency, improve stakeholder confidence, and facilitate sustainable growth (Fadil & St-
Pierre, 2021b; Fan, 2023). The literature collectively supports the notion that improving the quality and usage
of financial reporting within SMEs can significantly enhance business performance, especially in developing
and emerging economies where financial management challenges are more pronounced (Harif et al., 2010;
Mang'ana et al., 2023).

METHODOLOGY

This qualitative study investigated the influence of financial reporting and analysis on business performance
among agro-processing SMEs in the Ankole sub-region of Uganda. A purposive sampling approach was used
to select 20 participants, including SME owners, finance officers, and operations managers across sectors such

Page 4735

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





as agro-processing, retail, and services. The sample size was justified by data saturation, ensuring
comprehensive insights. Data collection took place between March and May 2025 through semi-structured
interviews lasting 45 to 60 minutes, conducted face-to-face or via phone based on participant availability and
safety considerations. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent and transcribed verbatim.

Data analysis employed thematic analysis supported by NVivo 14 software. The lead researcher manually
coded transcripts to identify patterns related to financial transparency, governance, reporting, and the use of
financial analysis tools. Codes were refined through axial coding, with peer debriefing sessions held to ensure
consistency and rigor. Techniques such as triangulation and member checking were used to enhance the
trustworthiness of the findings. The demographic profile showed a predominantly male sample with varied
educational backgrounds and mostly small-scale SMEs, reflecting the regional SME landscape.

While the qualitative approach provided rich, contextual insights, limitations include the purposive and region-
specific sample, which may limit generalizability. Self-reported data risk social desirability and recall bias, and
the cross-sectional design restricts analysis of changes over time. Future research could employ longitudinal
methods to track SME financial management evolution and test findings across broader contexts. The
demographic profile of respondents revealed a predominantly male (69.8%) participation, with the majority
aged between 35-44 years (31.8%), reflecting the demographic most active in SME management within the
region. Educational backgrounds varied, with 25.5% holding bachelor’s degrees, and a combined 60.1%
having post-secondary qualifications (certificate, diploma, or higher), indicating a generally moderate level of
financial and managerial knowledge among respondents. Most SMEs were small-scale, employing 1-5 people
(42.7%), highlighting the prevalence of resource-constrained enterprises within the study area. Regarding
ownership and management roles, managers constituted 45.8% of respondents, suggesting a professionalized
decision-making structure alongside business owners. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically to identify
patterns related to financial reporting, analysis practices, and business performance. Techniques such as
triangulation and member checking were applied to ensure trustworthiness and authenticity of the findings.

FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION

4.1. Improved Decision-Making Through Financial Transparency

A dominant theme across interviews was the role of financial transparency in enhancing decision-making.
Several respondents emphasized that systematic budgeting and cash flow monitoring provide clarity on
financial standing, enabling more accurate profit projections and loss avoidance. For example, an SME owner
in Mbarara noted how careful budgeting allowed their agro-processing firm to expand steadily over three
years. This suggests that financial transparency is not merely an accounting exercise but a strategic tool that
underpins growth.

Existing literature supports this view, emphasizing that financial transparency reduces information asymmetry
and uncertainty in SMEs, which often suffer from poor record-keeping (Beck et al., 2011). When SMEs clearly
understand their cash inflows and outflows, they can make more informed decisions, avoiding impulsive or
reactive management that often leads to failure (Fatoki & Asah, 2011). Thus, transparency directly contributes
to financial stability and operational efficiency. a finance officer, supports this notion: “We now compare this
year’s sales to last year’s each quarter. It helps us know when to save, when to invest, and when to cut back.”.
Such practices reflect growing financial maturity where historical data informs future planning, allowing
SMEs to anticipate market changes and make timely adjustments. The shift towards deliberate, transparent
financial planning represents a critical milestone in SME maturity, fostering sustainable growth. As a
participant from an agro-processing firm explained: “Most of us have learned that when we properly budget
and monitor our expenses, it becomes easier to project profits and avoid losses. That’s how we’ve managed to
expand steadily over the past three years.”

The qualitative data also suggest that transparency builds managerial confidence. Knowing their financial
situation in detail empowers SME owners to pursue growth opportunities while managing risks effectively.

Page 4736

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





This is echoed in studies that link transparency with improved entrepreneurial decision-making and reduced
financial stress (Baker & Nelson, 2005). As such, transparency is both a foundation for sound decisions and a
driver of business resilience.

The results highlight the interconnectedness of financial transparency with other aspects of financial
management. Budgeting and cash flow monitoring are not isolated activities; they form part of a
comprehensive approach that supports strategic planning, risk assessment, and operational control. Also, one
respondent would state, “Since we adopted stricter cash flow controls and involved the finance team in
decision-making, our performance has become more predictable, and we’ve avoided unnecessary debts.”
This
holistic understanding reinforces the notion that transparency is a keystone practice critical to SME success.

Even low-tech tools have contributed to transparency. An owner shared:“I started using a budgeting app on
my phone. It’s basic, but it helps me stay within limits. I don’t mix business and personal money anymore.”

This highlights that financial transparency does not require complex systems but a commitment to clear,
organized record-keeping that separates business finances from personal ones a common challenge in SMEs.

Overall, these voices underscore how transparency in financial activities enables better decision-making by
creating clarity, discipline, and the ability to anticipate financial needs, aligning with wider studies on SME
financial management.

4.2. Enhanced Stakeholder Trust and Communication

Another key finding is the role of collaborative financial governance in fostering trust and improving
communication among SME stakeholders. A finance manager from Bushenyi explained how involving the
finance team in decision-making led to more predictable performance and avoidance of unnecessary debt. This
illustrates that transparency alone is insufficient without active collaboration and inclusive governance
structures.

This finding resonates with the wider literature emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement in
SME financial management (Mwangi, 2016). SMEs that create inclusive financial management processes tend
to build stronger internal networks, enabling better coordination and shared accountability. Open
communication channels between owners, managers, and finance personnel ensure that financial data is
understood and acted upon, leading to improved financial discipline. nhanced Stakeholder Trust and
Communication

The qualitative feedback highlights that financial management is not an isolated task but a collaborative
process that strengthens stakeholder relationships. A finance manager from: “Since we adopted stricter cash
flow controls and involved the finance team in decision-making, our performance has become more
predictable, and we’ve avoided unnecessary debts.”

Furthermore, trust developed through transparent and participatory financial practices extends beyond internal
stakeholders. It can enhance relationships with external actors such as lenders, suppliers, and customers (Abor
& Quartey, 2010). SMEs that demonstrate clear financial governance are more likely to secure credit and
negotiate favorable terms, which are vital for survival and growth.

The data also underscore that collaborative governance reduces the likelihood of financial mismanagement and
fraud, which are common pitfalls in small businesses (Gichuki & Mungai, 2016). By distributing financial
oversight responsibilities, SMEs mitigate risks and create checks and balances that enhance financial stability.

The result highlights that stakeholder trust and communication are dynamic processes that evolve as SMEs
mature. Early-stage firms may struggle with informal financial management, but as they grow, establishing
formal financial teams and inclusive practices becomes critical. This progression aligns with models of SME
development emphasizing the gradual institutionalization of financial management (Neneh, 2014).

Page 4737

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





Participants also pointed to improved communication as a result of transparent financial practices. When
financial data is openly shared and understood among key personnel, decision-making becomes a collective
effort, reducing misunderstandings and fostering aligned objectives. Such collaboration mitigates risks related
to unilateral or uninformed decisions.

Moreover, trust built internally tends to spill over to external relationships. While not explicitly stated by
participants, it is well documented that lenders and suppliers value transparency, which improves credit access
and supplier terms (Abor & Quartey, 2010). SMEs in Ankole practicing open financial governance are likely
better positioned to negotiate with external stakeholders, strengthening their competitive edge.

The feedback also suggests that financial transparency helps counter common SME vulnerabilities such as
informal financial practices and lack of checks and balances. By distributing financial oversight
responsibilities, SMEs create accountability mechanisms that reduce financial leakages and fraud risks, a key
concern for small businesses (Gichuki & Mungai, 2016).

Lastly, these findings demonstrate that stakeholder trust is a dynamic outcome, growing as SMEs
institutionalize financial management. Early-stage firms may struggle with informal practices, but as they
mature, financial transparency and collaboration become essential to scaling successfully.

In sum, the findings underscore that trust and communication are not incidental by-products of financial
management, they are essential outcomes of deliberate, inclusive governance. As SMEs in the Ankole region
adopt more structured and transparent financial practices, they cultivate stronger internal cohesion and external
credibility. Collaborative financial management not only enhances operational control but also builds the
social capital necessary for growth, especially in resource-constrained environments. Going forward,
strengthening stakeholder engagement through participatory financial governance should be viewed as a
strategic imperative, not just a managerial preference, for SMEs aiming to improve performance and long-term
resilience.

4.3. Strategic Planning and Risk Management Enabled by Financial Analysis

Financial analysis tools such as sales forecasting and budgeting apps emerged as critical enablers of strategic
planning and risk management. Respondents described how comparing quarterly sales figures year-over-year
helped them decide when to save, invest, or cut costs. This practice exemplifies financial foresight, which
allows SMEs to anticipate market fluctuations and adjust strategies accordingly. Financial analysis, especially
tools such as sales forecasting and budgeting apps, empowers SMEs to engage in strategic planning and risk
mitigation. A finance officer shared how regular sales comparisons help in deciding:“We now compare this
year’s sales to last year’s each quarter. It helps us know when to save, when to invest, and when to cut back.”

This aligns with research suggesting that financial analysis improves SMEs’ ability to manage uncertainty and
mitigate risks (Gichuki & Mungai, 2016). Sales forecasting, in particular, is a widely recognized practice that
supports cash flow planning and investment decisions, reducing the likelihood of liquidity crises (Fatoki &
Asah, 2011). For SMEs operating in volatile environments like Ankole, such tools are essential for survival.

Additionally, the adoption of even basic technological tools for budgeting indicates a pragmatic approach to
financial management. An owner from Kiruhura district described how a simple budgeting app helped enforce
spending discipline and prevent the mixing of personal and business funds. This echoes findings by Neneh
(2014) that low-tech solutions can significantly improve financial management where sophisticated systems
are unavailable.

This reveals that financial analysis supports performance management by creating clear goals, accountability,
and clarity around business priorities. The shift from reactive to proactive financial behavior aligns with
improved overall business performance.

Page 4738

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





Together, these qualitative findings demonstrate that financial analysis tools, whether high-tech or simple, are
critical for SMEs to navigate uncertainties and maintain growth trajectories. This supports prior research
emphasizing the role of financial foresight in SME resilience (Fatoki & Asah, 2011).

The qualitative data also suggest that strategic financial planning supports goal setting and accountability. An
operations manager in Ibanda spoke of shifting from reactive spending to setting monthly targets, which
fostered focus and performance clarity. This mirrors literature emphasizing that goal-oriented planning
improves resource allocation and performance measurement in SMEs (Beck et al., 2011).

Strategic financial planning also enables goal setting, as an operations manager noted:

“Before, we spent money as it came in. Now we set targets every month and adjust our spending to meet them.
It has made us more focused.”

This practice is a clear example of using financial data to anticipate market conditions, adjusting business
strategies proactively rather than reacting after a problem occurs. It enhances the ability to manage cash flow
cycles, avoid overextension, and seize growth opportunities. An owner pointed to the practical impact of
budgeting technology: “I started using a budgeting app on my phone. It’s basic, but it helps me stay within
limits. I don’t mix business and personal money anymore.”

The results highlights that strategic planning and risk management via financial analysis not only protect
SMEs from external shocks but also create pathways for sustainable growth. SMEs that integrate financial
analysis into routine management are better positioned to leverage opportunities and build resilience against
economic uncertainties.

4.4. Challenges in Financial Reporting and Its Impact on Performance

Despite the positive strides in financial management, challenges in financial reporting persist and negatively
affect SME performance. Several respondents noted difficulties in maintaining disciplined reporting and
aligning expenditures with business goals. For instance, an operations manager in Ibanda reflected on past ad
hoc spending habits before adopting monthly targets. . One operations manager reflected on past difficulties:
“Before, we spent money as it came in. Now we set targets every month and adjust our spending to meet
them.”.
Another business owner in echoed: “We try to keep records, but sometimes we forget. It’s hard when
you are managing everything alone.”
These responses reflect broader patterns observed in recent literature:
financial reporting in SMEs is often informal, reactive, and vulnerable to human error, particularly in
developing economies (Kabuye et al., 2019; Wambua et al., 2022). Moreover, financial reporting gaps
negatively impact planning and external financing. An agro-processor in: “We were once denied a bank loan
because we didn’t have audited financials. They said our cash flow summary was not enough.”

The results echoe findings from prior studies indicating that inadequate financial reporting remains a major
constraint for SMEs, particularly in developing countries (Olawale & Garwe, 2010). Poor reporting limits
transparency, undermines decision-making, and increases vulnerability to financial mismanagement (Beck et
al., 2011). Many SMEs struggle with consistent record-keeping and timely reporting due to limited skills and
resources.

This supports current research suggesting that inadequate financial statements directly reduce SME access to
credit, as banks and investors require structured, reliable data to assess risk (Mutua & Kibati, 2020; Wambua et
al., 2022). Inconsistent reporting also contributes to poor alignment between spending and business goals, a
concern raised by multiple respondents. A retail SME manager explained: “Sometimes we overspend without
knowing because we don’t compare our income to expenses regularly. By the time we realize, we’re already
short on cash.”

These qualitative findings indicate a lack of timely financial feedback loops, which are essential for responsive
and informed decision-making (Kabuye et al., 2019). Beyond capacity, technology limitations emerged as a

Page 4739

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





key issue. Many SMEs lack access to even basic accounting software. While some entrepreneurs have adopted
mobile budgeting apps, others still rely on paper-based systems or mental accounting. A respondent stated: “I
use a notebook, but it gets messy. If I’m busy, I don’t write things down until days later. That’s where mistakes
happen.”

This aligns with calls in recent literature for context-appropriate financial technologies tailored for low-
resource SMEs (Nguyen et al., 2021). Financial literacy training alone is insufficient without user- friendly

tools and ongoing support systems that simplify reporting tasks.

Despite these challenges, signs of progress were evident. Some businesses have begun involving multiple team
members in financial monitoring, and others are setting monthly targets or comparing quarterly sales to
improve reporting consistency. A finance assistant shared: “We now check our numbers every two weeks, not
just at the end of the month. It’s helping, but we still need training to understand reporting better.”

These findings highlight a gradual but uneven transition from informal to structured financial reporting, a shift
supported by contemporary SME growth models (Ochieng & Wambua, 2023).

Financial reporting remains a critical weakness among SMEs in the Ankole region. While budgeting and cash
flow monitoring are improving, sustained growth depends on strengthening reporting accuracy, frequency, and
utility. Without proper financial statements, SMEs remain vulnerable to mismanagement, cash flow problems,
and restricted access to credit

CONCLUSION

This study explored the role of financial transparency, collaborative governance, financial analysis, and
reporting practices in shaping the financial performance and resilience of SMEs in the Ankole region. The
findings affirm that enhanced financial transparency—through tools like budgeting and cash flow
monitoring—not only improves managerial decision-making but also cultivates strategic foresight, operational
discipline, and growth readiness. As evidenced by participants, SMEs that actively monitor financial trends are
better positioned to manage risks, anticipate opportunities, and maintain stability in volatile economic
environments.

Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of inclusive financial governance in fostering stakeholder
trust and communication. Transparent practices, especially when coupled with participatory decision-making,
create internal accountability mechanisms that reduce the likelihood of fraud, mismanagement, and financial
leakages. Respondents emphasized that when finance teams are involved in planning, performance becomes
more predictable and strategic alignment improves. Importantly, this trust also extends beyond internal teams,
potentially enhancing relationships with lenders and suppliers, thereby improving creditworthiness and supply
chain collaboration.

Strategic financial planning, aided by both simple and advanced analytical tools, emerged as a key enabler of
resilience and sustainable growth. SMEs that utilize financial data to set goals, evaluate performance, and
adjust proactively to market trends demonstrate a higher degree of financial maturity. However, while the
benefits of financial planning are evident, challenges in financial reporting remain a critical constraint. Many
SMEs still struggle with inadequate skills, informal systems, and limited access to digital tools or financial
literacy programs. These gaps not only hinder internal decision-making but also restrict access to external
finance—thereby slowing down investment and scalability.

Looking forward, there is a need for more targeted interventions to support SME financial capacity. Future
research could expand on the impact of digital financial tools in low-resource settings, particularly how
mobile-based apps and cloud accounting platforms may bridge reporting gaps in rural or semi-urban areas.
Moreover, longitudinal studies tracking the evolution of financial practices over time would help identify the
conditions under which SMEs transition from informal to institutionalized financial management. Such

Page 4740

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue IX September 2025


www.rsisinternational.org





research could inform both policy and practice, offering evidence-based frameworks for SME development in
Uganda and similar contexts. Ultimately, closing the financial management gap in SMEs is not just a technical
issue it is a strategic imperative for inclusive economic growth and resilience.

REFERENCES

1. Al-Hashimy, H. N. H. (2025). The relationship between financial management strategies and firm
financial performance: the moderating role of firm size. Journal of Financial Management of Property
and Construction. https://doi.org/10.1108/jfmpc-05-2023-0025

2. Ali, F. H., Ali, M., Malik, S. Z., Hamza, M. A., & Ali, H. F. (2020). Managers’ open innovation and
business performance in SMEs: A moderated mediation model of job crafting and gender. Journal of
Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity, 6(3), 89.

3. Ali, S., Muhammad, H., & Migliori, S. (2024). R&D investment and SMEs performance: the role of
capital structure decisions. EuroMed Journal of Business.

4. Aliyeva, M. (2023). Company management decision-making based on the analysis of events after the
reporting period. Problems and Perspectives in Management.

5. Altaf, N., & Ahmad, F. (2019). Working capital financing, firm performance and financial
constraints. International Journal of Managerial Finance. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJMF-02-2018-0036

6. Amram, N. R., Habidin, N., & Basri, M. F. (2023). The Relationship Between Working Capital
Management and Business Performance in Malaysia SMEs Family Business. International Journal of
Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences. https://doi.org/10.6007/ijarbss/v13-i9/17910

7. Analuisa, J. J., Sanguil, S., Rojas-Lema, X., & Hatakeyama, K. (2023). Measurement of performance
in SMEs: Bibliometric analysis (2015 ? 2021). International Joint Conference on Industrial
Engineering and Operations Management Proceedings.

8. Anwar, M., & Shah, S. (2020). Entrepreneurial orientation and generic competitive strategies for
emerging SMEs: Financial and nonfinancial performance perspective. Journal of Public Affairs.
https://doi.org/10.1002/pa.2125

9. Arif, N. P., & Handayani, N. (2024). Financial Performance Mediates the Effect of Sustainability
Reporting on Firm Value. Jurnal Akuntansi Bisnis.

10. Asti, S. T., Rizqy , P. F., Muda, I., & Syafruddin , G. (2020). Positive Accounting Theory:
Theoretical Perspectives on Accounting. Science and technology.

11. Aviyanti, R. D., Fatmala, I., & Putri, N. (2024). The Impact of Social Activities, Management
Strategies, and Human Capital on Improving Company Financial Performance. Jurnal AKSI
(Akuntansi dan Sistem Informasi).

12. Kabuye, F., Nkundabanyanga, S. K., Opiso, J., & Akisimire, R. (2019). Accounting practices, firm
resource capability and financial performance of SMEs in Uganda. Journal of Accounting in
Emerging Economies, 9(4), 489-508.

13. Mutua, J., & Kibati, P. (2020). Financial management practices and SME performance in Sub-
Saharan Africa. African Journal of Business Management, 14(5), 145–155.

14. Nguyen, T., Locke, S., & Reddy, K. (2021). Enhancing SME performance through digital accounting
systems in developing economies. International Journal of Accounting Information Systems, 40,
100528.

15. Ochieng, F., & Wambua, J. (2023). Bridging financial literacy and technology gaps in SMEs: A
conceptual model. East African Business Review, 6(1), 78–94.

16. Wambua, J., Kimathi, B., & Murithi, G. (2022). Financial reporting practices and access to credit
among small and medium enterprises in Kenya. Journal of Finance and Accounting, 10(1), 25–34.