A blended learning toolkit that accommodates multiple learning styles
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A comparative analysis of the determinants of South Africa bilateral trade flows with the European Union-Southern African development community economic partnership agreement and trade development and cooperation agreement
- Authors: Mhaka, Simbarashe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic integration , Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Customs Union
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31875 , vital:31857
- Description: This research dissertation presents the impact of economic size, market size and exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows with the European Union under the Trade Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA). The Big Five EU members are used to represent the EU trading bloc. The research also examines the effects of economic size, market size and ex-change rate on South African trade flows with members of the Southern African Customs Union and of the European Union in what is called the European Union-Southern African Development Community Economic Partnership Agreement (EU-SADC EPA). The research employs comparative analysis aimed at identifying the differences in the effects of market size, economic size and exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows with these two trading blocs. The study exploits panel data on international trade of South Africa over the period 2000-’16. A gravity model of trade is used to identify the effect of these three variables on South Africa’s trade flows. The empirical analysis relies on a panel data econometrics framework as an estimation technique for the gravity model of trade between South Africa and the Big Five EU members. This shows the outcomes of the effects of economic size, market size and exchange rate on the trade flows of South Africa in the TDCA. The same technique is applied to estimate the effects of economic size, market size and exchange rate to trade flows of South Africa with the Big Five EU members as well as the other SACU members representing the SADC-EU EPA. In the panel data approach, three models are adopted. These are pooled OLS, fixed effects and random effects that can be estimated. The Hausman tests shows that the random effect is appropriate in the TDCA gravity function and the results indicate a positive relationship be-tween South Africa’s economic/market size and South Africa’s trade flows in the TDCA. In the EU-SADC EPA, the Hausman tests indicated that the fixed effect models are appropriate and the results show a positive relationship between economic size and market size with South Africa’s trade flows in the EU-SADC EPA. However, in the TDCA, the random effect model shows that exchange rate and the trading partner’s market size have a negative outcome on South Africa trade flows. The fixed effect model shows a negative relationship between the exchange rate and South Africa’s trade flows in the EU-SADC EPA. The results also show that it is better for South Africa to trade in the EU-SADC EPA than to remain in the TDCA. This is because the outcomes of economic and market size on South Africa’s trade flows are greater in the EU-SADC EPA than in the TDCA. On the other hand the negative effect of the exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows is less in the EU-SADC EPA than in the TDCA. The research recommends that policy-makers select trading partners based on the sizes of their markets and economies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mhaka, Simbarashe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic integration , Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Customs Union
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31875 , vital:31857
- Description: This research dissertation presents the impact of economic size, market size and exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows with the European Union under the Trade Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA). The Big Five EU members are used to represent the EU trading bloc. The research also examines the effects of economic size, market size and ex-change rate on South African trade flows with members of the Southern African Customs Union and of the European Union in what is called the European Union-Southern African Development Community Economic Partnership Agreement (EU-SADC EPA). The research employs comparative analysis aimed at identifying the differences in the effects of market size, economic size and exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows with these two trading blocs. The study exploits panel data on international trade of South Africa over the period 2000-’16. A gravity model of trade is used to identify the effect of these three variables on South Africa’s trade flows. The empirical analysis relies on a panel data econometrics framework as an estimation technique for the gravity model of trade between South Africa and the Big Five EU members. This shows the outcomes of the effects of economic size, market size and exchange rate on the trade flows of South Africa in the TDCA. The same technique is applied to estimate the effects of economic size, market size and exchange rate to trade flows of South Africa with the Big Five EU members as well as the other SACU members representing the SADC-EU EPA. In the panel data approach, three models are adopted. These are pooled OLS, fixed effects and random effects that can be estimated. The Hausman tests shows that the random effect is appropriate in the TDCA gravity function and the results indicate a positive relationship be-tween South Africa’s economic/market size and South Africa’s trade flows in the TDCA. In the EU-SADC EPA, the Hausman tests indicated that the fixed effect models are appropriate and the results show a positive relationship between economic size and market size with South Africa’s trade flows in the EU-SADC EPA. However, in the TDCA, the random effect model shows that exchange rate and the trading partner’s market size have a negative outcome on South Africa trade flows. The fixed effect model shows a negative relationship between the exchange rate and South Africa’s trade flows in the EU-SADC EPA. The results also show that it is better for South Africa to trade in the EU-SADC EPA than to remain in the TDCA. This is because the outcomes of economic and market size on South Africa’s trade flows are greater in the EU-SADC EPA than in the TDCA. On the other hand the negative effect of the exchange rate on South Africa’s trade flows is less in the EU-SADC EPA than in the TDCA. The research recommends that policy-makers select trading partners based on the sizes of their markets and economies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A comparative analysis of the effects of different Levels of Education on growth in African Economies
- Authors: Mkhosana, Nomathamsanqa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- Effect of education on , Education -- Economic Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50393 , vital:42161
- Description: The economic growth and development of a country depend on the educational opportunities available to its citizens. Education is deemed to influence economic growth via improved labour productivity particularly through knowledge and skills accumulation by promoting technological improvement and innovation. The aim of the study was to highlight the importance of each level of education on economic growth of African countries. The objective of the study was to find which level of education (primary, secondary and tertiary) has the most significant effect on economic growth. To obtain this objective, the study using two panel cointegration methods, the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method applied to data covering the period of 2000 to 2017, the study aimed at sampling 10 educated economies and 10 advanced economies in Africa, since South Africa and Kenya belong in both categories, the study a total of 18 African economies. The results of the study show discrepancies, that is, primary and secondary education being most beneficial towards more advanced economies whilst only tertiary education is beneficiary towards more educated African countries. Policy implications are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkhosana, Nomathamsanqa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- Effect of education on , Education -- Economic Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50393 , vital:42161
- Description: The economic growth and development of a country depend on the educational opportunities available to its citizens. Education is deemed to influence economic growth via improved labour productivity particularly through knowledge and skills accumulation by promoting technological improvement and innovation. The aim of the study was to highlight the importance of each level of education on economic growth of African countries. The objective of the study was to find which level of education (primary, secondary and tertiary) has the most significant effect on economic growth. To obtain this objective, the study using two panel cointegration methods, the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method applied to data covering the period of 2000 to 2017, the study aimed at sampling 10 educated economies and 10 advanced economies in Africa, since South Africa and Kenya belong in both categories, the study a total of 18 African economies. The results of the study show discrepancies, that is, primary and secondary education being most beneficial towards more advanced economies whilst only tertiary education is beneficiary towards more educated African countries. Policy implications are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A comparative study between the Seychelles and Singapore as a tax haven for the incorporation of a foreign structure of a resident company
- Wagener, Petrus Johannes Crous
- Authors: Wagener, Petrus Johannes Crous
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Tax havens , Banks and banking, Foreign -- Taxation -- Seychelles , Banks and banking, Foreign -- Taxation -- Singapore , Taxation -- Seychelles , Taxation -- Singapore
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21208 , vital:29456
- Description: Companies in South Africa will generally attempt to reduce their tax burden, and over the last ten years the use of Singapore and the Seychelles as tax haven jurisdictions’ have increased significantly. Singapore and the Seychelles are well known for their low or zero tax rates and for their confidentiality policies in respect of providing information to foreign tax authorities. It is because of these policies that individuals and businesses invest huge amounts in these countries. There is however uncertainty as to what type of foreign structure a resident company in South Africa may incorporate in the above-mentioned tax haven jurisdictions in order to receive the most effective tax benefit. The aim of this treatise was to identify the different foreign structures in Singapore and the Seychelles which a South African resident company may incorporate. Resulting from this research certain issues have been identified relating to the type of foreign structure and a major one is summarised below: The concept of “place of effective management” used to determine tax residence or as the tie-break clause concept under a double tax agreement. As stated in the case of Oceanic Trust Co Ltd NO v C: SARS (2012) 74 SATC 1275 which is in line with foreign precedents, the test is one of substance over form and the approach to determine “place of effective management” may be to attribute human characteristics to a structure to establish where it is effectively managed. Thus, South African companies can make use of Singapore or the Seychelles as tax havens and incorporate a foreign structure which will be seen as not being resident in South Africa to distribute passive income sources out of South Africa, without paying taxes in the country (withholding taxes may be levied in the tax havens). This should be of concern from the point of view of the South African government. Another issue noted in this treatise related to the use of offshore trusts as a foreign structure for a South African resident company may be the more effective option seeing that the controlled foreign company legislation is not applicable on offshore trusts, reducing the risk of taxation on foreign income of a South African resident company when it is held in an offshore trust. The above issues that have been identified present opportunities to South African resident companies to take advantage of the current tax legislation. It is further recommended that resident companies need to consider the South African domestic tax law implications, respective double tax agreements with both Singapore and the Seychelles as well as the domestic tax laws of these tax haven jurisdictions when planning on incorporating a foreign structure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Wagener, Petrus Johannes Crous
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Tax havens , Banks and banking, Foreign -- Taxation -- Seychelles , Banks and banking, Foreign -- Taxation -- Singapore , Taxation -- Seychelles , Taxation -- Singapore
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21208 , vital:29456
- Description: Companies in South Africa will generally attempt to reduce their tax burden, and over the last ten years the use of Singapore and the Seychelles as tax haven jurisdictions’ have increased significantly. Singapore and the Seychelles are well known for their low or zero tax rates and for their confidentiality policies in respect of providing information to foreign tax authorities. It is because of these policies that individuals and businesses invest huge amounts in these countries. There is however uncertainty as to what type of foreign structure a resident company in South Africa may incorporate in the above-mentioned tax haven jurisdictions in order to receive the most effective tax benefit. The aim of this treatise was to identify the different foreign structures in Singapore and the Seychelles which a South African resident company may incorporate. Resulting from this research certain issues have been identified relating to the type of foreign structure and a major one is summarised below: The concept of “place of effective management” used to determine tax residence or as the tie-break clause concept under a double tax agreement. As stated in the case of Oceanic Trust Co Ltd NO v C: SARS (2012) 74 SATC 1275 which is in line with foreign precedents, the test is one of substance over form and the approach to determine “place of effective management” may be to attribute human characteristics to a structure to establish where it is effectively managed. Thus, South African companies can make use of Singapore or the Seychelles as tax havens and incorporate a foreign structure which will be seen as not being resident in South Africa to distribute passive income sources out of South Africa, without paying taxes in the country (withholding taxes may be levied in the tax havens). This should be of concern from the point of view of the South African government. Another issue noted in this treatise related to the use of offshore trusts as a foreign structure for a South African resident company may be the more effective option seeing that the controlled foreign company legislation is not applicable on offshore trusts, reducing the risk of taxation on foreign income of a South African resident company when it is held in an offshore trust. The above issues that have been identified present opportunities to South African resident companies to take advantage of the current tax legislation. It is further recommended that resident companies need to consider the South African domestic tax law implications, respective double tax agreements with both Singapore and the Seychelles as well as the domestic tax laws of these tax haven jurisdictions when planning on incorporating a foreign structure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A comparative study of South Africa's vat rate
- Authors: Pieterse, Marli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Value-added tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23049 , vital:30401
- Description: This treatise compared South Africa's VAT rate to the VAT rate trends of other developing counties (such as Brazil and India), as well as international VAT rate developments. Brazil introduced VAT in 1965 and currently has a multi-dimensional VAT rate system consists of five types of VAT, each type of taxing consumers a t different rate depending on the type of product, the municipality or the consumer's turnover. Brazil's average VAT rate is currently 19%. India moved from an origin-based VAT rate system to a GST rate system in 2017. Their GST system levies VAT on a federal level. as well as a state level and on all interstate transactions. India's GST rates varies depending on the luxurious nature of the supply and their average GST rate is currently 15%. South Africa VAT in 1991 and it comprises of a single-rate VAT system where goods and services of vendors are taxed at 14%, unless the specific goods or services fall under the list of exepted or zero-rated items. South Africa's VAT rate remained unchanged since 1993. Per the research it was noted that despite facing similar political, economical and social dilemmas, developing countries such as India and Brazil changed their VAT rates numerous time since its inception, where South Africa only increased their VAT rate once. Brazil and India furthermore have higher average VAT rates than South Africa, despite correlation with the respective poverty levels indicating otherwise.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Pieterse, Marli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Value-added tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23049 , vital:30401
- Description: This treatise compared South Africa's VAT rate to the VAT rate trends of other developing counties (such as Brazil and India), as well as international VAT rate developments. Brazil introduced VAT in 1965 and currently has a multi-dimensional VAT rate system consists of five types of VAT, each type of taxing consumers a t different rate depending on the type of product, the municipality or the consumer's turnover. Brazil's average VAT rate is currently 19%. India moved from an origin-based VAT rate system to a GST rate system in 2017. Their GST system levies VAT on a federal level. as well as a state level and on all interstate transactions. India's GST rates varies depending on the luxurious nature of the supply and their average GST rate is currently 15%. South Africa VAT in 1991 and it comprises of a single-rate VAT system where goods and services of vendors are taxed at 14%, unless the specific goods or services fall under the list of exepted or zero-rated items. South Africa's VAT rate remained unchanged since 1993. Per the research it was noted that despite facing similar political, economical and social dilemmas, developing countries such as India and Brazil changed their VAT rates numerous time since its inception, where South Africa only increased their VAT rate once. Brazil and India furthermore have higher average VAT rates than South Africa, despite correlation with the respective poverty levels indicating otherwise.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2018
A critical analysis of the provisions taxing maintenance payments in terms of the South African income tax legislation
- Authors: Zulu, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- South Africa Tax planning -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35885 , vital:33856
- Description: The tax implications of contributions towards maintenance are not always clear to a typical taxpayer. The duty of support is often the driving force behind the contributions made. Donations, payments made by ‘Blessors’, and child maintenance are fundamental objects of attention in this study, although all maintenance payments are considered from a tax perspective with reference to the Income Tax Act No 58 of 1962. The main aim of the study was to illustrate and analyse the interaction of the rules governing the taxation of maintenance payments. Tax abuse was assessed in relation to the anti-avoidance provisions in effect in the legislation. The results were benchmarked against data relating to Australia. In the social context, a fundamental difference in the systems was observed, and the Australian provision may be considered for possible adoption in South Africa. In the context of tax per se, the study found that the operation of the attribution rules in the provisions in South African tax law pertaining to the taxation of child maintenance renders the provisions adequate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zulu, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- South Africa Tax planning -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35885 , vital:33856
- Description: The tax implications of contributions towards maintenance are not always clear to a typical taxpayer. The duty of support is often the driving force behind the contributions made. Donations, payments made by ‘Blessors’, and child maintenance are fundamental objects of attention in this study, although all maintenance payments are considered from a tax perspective with reference to the Income Tax Act No 58 of 1962. The main aim of the study was to illustrate and analyse the interaction of the rules governing the taxation of maintenance payments. Tax abuse was assessed in relation to the anti-avoidance provisions in effect in the legislation. The results were benchmarked against data relating to Australia. In the social context, a fundamental difference in the systems was observed, and the Australian provision may be considered for possible adoption in South Africa. In the context of tax per se, the study found that the operation of the attribution rules in the provisions in South African tax law pertaining to the taxation of child maintenance renders the provisions adequate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A critical analysis of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) dispute resolution process
- Authors: Olivier, Carl Hendré
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service , Conflict management Civil procedure -- Trials, litigation, etc Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23011 , vital:30294
- Description: The SARS dispute resolution process was developed to ensure disputes are resolved in a constitutional manner (i.e. fair, accountable and efficient). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the dispute resolution process adheres to the constitutional requirements as required in terms of section 195 of the Constitution. The study summarised the rules of the dispute process in the various stages (i.e. assessment / discovery stage, objection stage, appeal stage and the litigation stage). The litigation stage was considered to be out of the scope for the study. Using the summary, the significant processes were identified based on set criteria for detailed analysis. The significant processes identified were:Prescribed form and manner, date of delivery and objection against an assessment and extension of time periods, Reasons for assessment, Appeal against rejection of an objection Each of the significant processes was analysed in detail by considering the treatment of the processes in various cases in the courts. Based on the analysis, the following conclusions were reached on the significant processes:Prescribed form and manner, objection against an assessment and extension of time periods – This process was considered to be flawed since the process does not provide for the SARS to be responsible for clerical or processing errors. It was recommended that the taxpayer should not be bound by the set timelines should the SARS issue an assessment which contains clerical or processing errors. It was also noted that there are no set rules when there is evidence of fraud, misrepresentation or non-disclosure of material facts in the case and it was recommended that set rules be included in the rules and the TAA to address the consequences, prescription period and processes surrounding cases where fraud, misrepresentation or non-disclosure of material facts is present. Reasons for assessment – The process was considered to be adequate, however it was recommended that the process be improved by including a set criteria for the SARS to comply with when providing reasons for an assessment to the taxpayer., Appeal against rejection of an objection – The process was considered to be adequate. Based on the findings, the conclusion was drawn that the dispute resolution process is considered to be adequate and constitutional with some reservations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Olivier, Carl Hendré
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service , Conflict management Civil procedure -- Trials, litigation, etc Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23011 , vital:30294
- Description: The SARS dispute resolution process was developed to ensure disputes are resolved in a constitutional manner (i.e. fair, accountable and efficient). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the dispute resolution process adheres to the constitutional requirements as required in terms of section 195 of the Constitution. The study summarised the rules of the dispute process in the various stages (i.e. assessment / discovery stage, objection stage, appeal stage and the litigation stage). The litigation stage was considered to be out of the scope for the study. Using the summary, the significant processes were identified based on set criteria for detailed analysis. The significant processes identified were:Prescribed form and manner, date of delivery and objection against an assessment and extension of time periods, Reasons for assessment, Appeal against rejection of an objection Each of the significant processes was analysed in detail by considering the treatment of the processes in various cases in the courts. Based on the analysis, the following conclusions were reached on the significant processes:Prescribed form and manner, objection against an assessment and extension of time periods – This process was considered to be flawed since the process does not provide for the SARS to be responsible for clerical or processing errors. It was recommended that the taxpayer should not be bound by the set timelines should the SARS issue an assessment which contains clerical or processing errors. It was also noted that there are no set rules when there is evidence of fraud, misrepresentation or non-disclosure of material facts in the case and it was recommended that set rules be included in the rules and the TAA to address the consequences, prescription period and processes surrounding cases where fraud, misrepresentation or non-disclosure of material facts is present. Reasons for assessment – The process was considered to be adequate, however it was recommended that the process be improved by including a set criteria for the SARS to comply with when providing reasons for an assessment to the taxpayer., Appeal against rejection of an objection – The process was considered to be adequate. Based on the findings, the conclusion was drawn that the dispute resolution process is considered to be adequate and constitutional with some reservations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A critical review of the penalty provisions of the Tax Administration Act
- Authors: Mavundla, Dineo Shaleen
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Tax Administration Act, 2011 , Tax administration and procedure Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31808 , vital:31847
- Description: In previous years SARS faced a challenge of imposing additional taxes and penalties consistently. The Tax Administration Act (TAA) was introduced in order to consolidate the administrative provisions of the various taxation acts and to consistently apply penalty provisions that were previously included in, amongst others, section 75B and 76 of the Income Tax Act and section 60 of the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act. The penalty provisions are contained in chapter 15, 16 and 17 of the TAA. These penalty provisions now apply to all tax types, excluding customs and excise. It could be said that the tax system in South Africa is based on an honesty policy. Taxpayers are expected to submit accurate returns. The main purpose of the penalties is to ensure the accuracy of the returns submitted and to avoid loss to the fiscus. The principle found in ITC 14891 is "a relevant factor in the assessment of a penalty is the loss occasioned to the fiscus.". This study critically analyses the administrative non-compliance penalties contained in chapter 15 and the understatement penalties in chapter 16 of the TAA. This was done through literature and case law (where appropriate), to determine what the legislature intends and to test the provisions against the Constitution and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA). It was found that the introduction of the penalty provisions in the TAA have not completely brought about consistency in the application of the penalties. It was 1 ITC 1489 53 SATC 99 at 108. also found that there were instances where penalty provisions were applied incorrectly, either by the system or by tax officials, which consequently added to taxpayers’ administrative burden. The current study proposes this as an unfair application of the penalty provisions as it deviates from the intention of the legislature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mavundla, Dineo Shaleen
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Tax Administration Act, 2011 , Tax administration and procedure Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31808 , vital:31847
- Description: In previous years SARS faced a challenge of imposing additional taxes and penalties consistently. The Tax Administration Act (TAA) was introduced in order to consolidate the administrative provisions of the various taxation acts and to consistently apply penalty provisions that were previously included in, amongst others, section 75B and 76 of the Income Tax Act and section 60 of the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act. The penalty provisions are contained in chapter 15, 16 and 17 of the TAA. These penalty provisions now apply to all tax types, excluding customs and excise. It could be said that the tax system in South Africa is based on an honesty policy. Taxpayers are expected to submit accurate returns. The main purpose of the penalties is to ensure the accuracy of the returns submitted and to avoid loss to the fiscus. The principle found in ITC 14891 is "a relevant factor in the assessment of a penalty is the loss occasioned to the fiscus.". This study critically analyses the administrative non-compliance penalties contained in chapter 15 and the understatement penalties in chapter 16 of the TAA. This was done through literature and case law (where appropriate), to determine what the legislature intends and to test the provisions against the Constitution and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA). It was found that the introduction of the penalty provisions in the TAA have not completely brought about consistency in the application of the penalties. It was 1 ITC 1489 53 SATC 99 at 108. also found that there were instances where penalty provisions were applied incorrectly, either by the system or by tax officials, which consequently added to taxpayers’ administrative burden. The current study proposes this as an unfair application of the penalty provisions as it deviates from the intention of the legislature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A Social Media Method for Eliciting Millennials’ Worldviews on the Coastal and Marine Environment
- Authors: Okuah, Obrukevwe Anehwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Millennialism -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48588 , vital:40893
- Description: A lack of involvement by participants with traditional data collection methods for research has led to insufficient data regarding millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. Understanding millennial worldviews could provide insights for policy interventions for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment. The aim of this research is to design, develop and evaluate an appropriate social media method to elicit millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. The methodology used for the research was Design Science Research (DSR), which is a legitimate approach to conducting research in the field of Information Systems. The methods used were a literature review, interviews with social media experts and Social Media Influencers (SMIs), and a focus group discussion with researchers from the field of social sciences. The proposed artefact (the method) can be used to provide guidance to researchers for engaging and eliciting opinions and worldviews of millennials on social media. The method includes a Social Media Influencer Model that illustrates the relationship between SMIs’ characteristics and techniques for engaging the public, and a Social Media Analytics (SMA) Process model that can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public. Although there are several SMA techniques that can be used, the proposed method uses sentiment analysis as an SMA technique for deriving sentiments from social media data. The method was evaluated by researchers who require a social media method for eliciting millennials worldviews. The findings confirmed some of the techniques identified in literature as well as some additional techniques and processes. It was also evident that using this method could assist researchers for data collection and specifically to obtain worldviews on the marine and coastal environment. The contribution of this study is an artefact that fulfils the need for a social media method for data collection that is more convenient for researchers and millennials and can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Okuah, Obrukevwe Anehwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Millennialism -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48588 , vital:40893
- Description: A lack of involvement by participants with traditional data collection methods for research has led to insufficient data regarding millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. Understanding millennial worldviews could provide insights for policy interventions for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment. The aim of this research is to design, develop and evaluate an appropriate social media method to elicit millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. The methodology used for the research was Design Science Research (DSR), which is a legitimate approach to conducting research in the field of Information Systems. The methods used were a literature review, interviews with social media experts and Social Media Influencers (SMIs), and a focus group discussion with researchers from the field of social sciences. The proposed artefact (the method) can be used to provide guidance to researchers for engaging and eliciting opinions and worldviews of millennials on social media. The method includes a Social Media Influencer Model that illustrates the relationship between SMIs’ characteristics and techniques for engaging the public, and a Social Media Analytics (SMA) Process model that can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public. Although there are several SMA techniques that can be used, the proposed method uses sentiment analysis as an SMA technique for deriving sentiments from social media data. The method was evaluated by researchers who require a social media method for eliciting millennials worldviews. The findings confirmed some of the techniques identified in literature as well as some additional techniques and processes. It was also evident that using this method could assist researchers for data collection and specifically to obtain worldviews on the marine and coastal environment. The contribution of this study is an artefact that fulfils the need for a social media method for data collection that is more convenient for researchers and millennials and can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Academic performance and cognitive critical thinking skills of certificate in theory of accounting students at Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Pienaar, Joné
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic achievement , Thought and thinking , Cognitive learning , Educational tests and measurements , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43196 , vital:36759
- Description: With advances in computerisation, the skills that accountants need to remain relevant in an ever-changing world deserves consideration. Literature indicates that “critical thinking skills” form part of the required skill set. However, the development and assessment of critical thinking skills in the accounting curriculum has not received sufficient attention. This study focuses on evaluating the assessment of accounting students’ critical thinking skills, specifically those aspiring to be CAs (SA), who are in their final year of university education. The primary objective of this study is to establish whether a relationship exists between cognitive critical thinking skills and academic performance of CTA students at Nelson Mandela University. The research followed a positivistic mixed method research methodology. Using the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (W-GCTA), the cognitive critical thinking ability of the sample (CTA students (n=60)) was determined and compared to their academic performance using various statistical techniques. Since the proxy for academic performance was the final marks of which the year-end examination forms a very large component, the examiners of each of the modules comprising the CTA programme also completed a questionnaire wherein they indicated the critical thinking skills assessed, and the assessment characteristics used in the examination papers. The results indicate that a relationship exists between cognitive critical thinking skills and academic performance of the sample in three of the four modules of the CTA programme: Accounting, Taxation and Estate Planning and Management Accounting. The questionnaire feedback indicates that cognitive critical thinking skills were assessed in the CTA programme to some extent, but that focus was placed on skills not assessed by the W-GCTA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Pienaar, Joné
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic achievement , Thought and thinking , Cognitive learning , Educational tests and measurements , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43196 , vital:36759
- Description: With advances in computerisation, the skills that accountants need to remain relevant in an ever-changing world deserves consideration. Literature indicates that “critical thinking skills” form part of the required skill set. However, the development and assessment of critical thinking skills in the accounting curriculum has not received sufficient attention. This study focuses on evaluating the assessment of accounting students’ critical thinking skills, specifically those aspiring to be CAs (SA), who are in their final year of university education. The primary objective of this study is to establish whether a relationship exists between cognitive critical thinking skills and academic performance of CTA students at Nelson Mandela University. The research followed a positivistic mixed method research methodology. Using the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (W-GCTA), the cognitive critical thinking ability of the sample (CTA students (n=60)) was determined and compared to their academic performance using various statistical techniques. Since the proxy for academic performance was the final marks of which the year-end examination forms a very large component, the examiners of each of the modules comprising the CTA programme also completed a questionnaire wherein they indicated the critical thinking skills assessed, and the assessment characteristics used in the examination papers. The results indicate that a relationship exists between cognitive critical thinking skills and academic performance of the sample in three of the four modules of the CTA programme: Accounting, Taxation and Estate Planning and Management Accounting. The questionnaire feedback indicates that cognitive critical thinking skills were assessed in the CTA programme to some extent, but that focus was placed on skills not assessed by the W-GCTA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An analysis of systemic risk in the South African banking sector
- Authors: Johnson, Clifford
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk assessment -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa Banks and banking -- South Africa Financial risk management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30551 , vital:30959
- Description: The topic of systemic risk has gained prominence over the last three decades, however, renewed interest and discourse on the subject has increased significantly since the global financial crisis of 2007. This dissertation investigates the impact systemic risk has on the South African banking sector and the externalities borne amongst the largest constituent banks during periods of distress. By means of quantile regression, the delta conditional value at risk (ΔCoVaR) as introduced by Adrian and Brunnermeier (2008), banking institutions are ranked according to their systemic risk contributions at horizontal and vertical levels. Using weekly observations from 25 January 2008 until 28 July 2017, the empirical results reveal that a loose link exists between an individual bank’s risk and its systemic contribution. Furthermore, during periods of distress, larger banks contribute the most to systemic risk of the system. However, horizontally – amongst banks – size does not automatically imply systemic importance. The implications of the results, given the study, highlight that regulation of banks at an individual level does not imply that an institution is operating systemically prudent. Furthermore, regulation of banks is welcomed in order to address systemic risk of an institution; however, regulators should be mindful of the vertical and horizontal aspects of systemic externalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Johnson, Clifford
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk assessment -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa Banks and banking -- South Africa Financial risk management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30551 , vital:30959
- Description: The topic of systemic risk has gained prominence over the last three decades, however, renewed interest and discourse on the subject has increased significantly since the global financial crisis of 2007. This dissertation investigates the impact systemic risk has on the South African banking sector and the externalities borne amongst the largest constituent banks during periods of distress. By means of quantile regression, the delta conditional value at risk (ΔCoVaR) as introduced by Adrian and Brunnermeier (2008), banking institutions are ranked according to their systemic risk contributions at horizontal and vertical levels. Using weekly observations from 25 January 2008 until 28 July 2017, the empirical results reveal that a loose link exists between an individual bank’s risk and its systemic contribution. Furthermore, during periods of distress, larger banks contribute the most to systemic risk of the system. However, horizontally – amongst banks – size does not automatically imply systemic importance. The implications of the results, given the study, highlight that regulation of banks at an individual level does not imply that an institution is operating systemically prudent. Furthermore, regulation of banks is welcomed in order to address systemic risk of an institution; however, regulators should be mindful of the vertical and horizontal aspects of systemic externalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean and the likely impacts of climate change
- Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44528 , vital:38140
- Description: The Western Indian Ocean hosts the second largest coastal population on the planet and supports 4 million tons of fish catches annually yielding $943 million in revenues and employment. However, it has been warming at a rate faster than any other region of the tropical oceans over the last century thereby placing the challenges of fluctuating fish supply and changes in ocean productivity on coastal communities. With the global food system under mounting pressure, governments need to understand the relationship between fish supply and food security to avoid overseeing the important role fish and fisheries play in ensuring food security. This study provides an alternative view and measurement of food security at a national level by assessing the impact that macroeconomic variables and climate change have on fish supply in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania as case study countries of the Western Indian Ocean. Vector Error Correction Models were run to analyse the impact of economic growth, fishing effort, lending interest rates, and climate change on marine food security for the period of 1980-2016. Agricultural employment was used as a proxy for fishing effort. In general, the relationship between fish supply and fishing effort is negative in the short run and positive in the long run for Kenyan marine fisheries, South African total capture and marine fisheries, and Tanzanian capture fisheries. These results therefore oppose the theoretical expectations. Sea surface temperature, as a proxy of climate change, was found to have a negative impact overall on fish supply and therefore exerts a negative impact on marine food security in all three countries. The results emphasise the need to use disaggregated fisheries statistics to better understand the complex relationship between macroeconomic variables and fish supply. By doing so, more effective food security policies can be created in attempt to mitigate the potential negative impacts of climate change on marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44528 , vital:38140
- Description: The Western Indian Ocean hosts the second largest coastal population on the planet and supports 4 million tons of fish catches annually yielding $943 million in revenues and employment. However, it has been warming at a rate faster than any other region of the tropical oceans over the last century thereby placing the challenges of fluctuating fish supply and changes in ocean productivity on coastal communities. With the global food system under mounting pressure, governments need to understand the relationship between fish supply and food security to avoid overseeing the important role fish and fisheries play in ensuring food security. This study provides an alternative view and measurement of food security at a national level by assessing the impact that macroeconomic variables and climate change have on fish supply in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania as case study countries of the Western Indian Ocean. Vector Error Correction Models were run to analyse the impact of economic growth, fishing effort, lending interest rates, and climate change on marine food security for the period of 1980-2016. Agricultural employment was used as a proxy for fishing effort. In general, the relationship between fish supply and fishing effort is negative in the short run and positive in the long run for Kenyan marine fisheries, South African total capture and marine fisheries, and Tanzanian capture fisheries. These results therefore oppose the theoretical expectations. Sea surface temperature, as a proxy of climate change, was found to have a negative impact overall on fish supply and therefore exerts a negative impact on marine food security in all three countries. The results emphasise the need to use disaggregated fisheries statistics to better understand the complex relationship between macroeconomic variables and fish supply. By doing so, more effective food security policies can be created in attempt to mitigate the potential negative impacts of climate change on marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the application of the internal dispute resolution in resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practice in the workplace
- Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Authors: Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Labor disputes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43036 , vital:36726
- Description: When grievances do not get resolved in the workplace, they can turn into disputes of unfair labour practices. The use of an internal dispute resolution mechanism, the grievance procedure, is not a new method for resolving disputes of unfair labour practices within the jurisdiction of the workplace. While some organisations benefit from effectively using the internal dispute resolution mechanism, other organisations seem not to yield positive results when applying the very same internal mechanism. This, therefore, raises the question whether the internal grievance procedures effectively used to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices. The main aim of this research study, therefore, is to assess the application of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in order to determine whether the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Pretoria, Gauteng Province of the Republic of South Africa, is effectively applying the internal dispute resolution mechanism to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices in the workplace. To answer the research questions, a literature study was conducted. A literature study was done to find out what other studies have discovered regarding the internal dispute resolution mechanism and unfair labour practices. Deficiencies found in the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the LRA), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; and the intertwine between the application of the common law and labour law further complicate resolutions of disputes of unfair labour practices. As a result, organisations may not be certain which specific law should mainly be taken into account when dealing with labour matters concerning unfair labour practices. As such, the internal dispute resolution mechanism may not be effectively applied in the workplace to minimise or prevent disputes of unfair labour practices from having a negative impact on the organisation. Once an organisation fails to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices inside the workplace, the efficiency of the organisation is compromised. The organisation is at risk of spending more time and possibly more money when disputes of unfair labour practices are referred to external dispute resolution institutions. An empirical research study using a quantitative research method was used to collect data. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from research respondents. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain data from the personnel who are tasked with the duties and responsibilities of dealing and managing labour relations in the organisation. Respondents consisted of labour relations and human resources practitioners and labour relations and human resources managers. Data was obtained from 16 out of 23 respondents, which resulted in a 69% response rate. Findings of the study indicated that the internal dispute resolution mechanism of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality was perceived to be ineffective in resolving disputes hence disputes were referred to external dispute institutions. In the process, the organisation incurred costs in terms of time and money. Furthermore, the time it took to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices negatively affected the morale of employees and productivity in the workplace. Although the majority of respondents had the competencies and skills, some individuals felt that the competencies and skills they had were not sufficient to enable them to deal with dispute resolution effectively. As a result, the lack of required competencies and skills affected the process of the dispute resolution of the organisation by causing delays in resolving unfair labour practices in the workplace. The research indicated that there were inconsistencies in the application of procedures regarding resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practices. As such, respondents perceived the grievance procedure as not being effectively used to reduce the number of disputes from escalating to external dispute resolution institutions. Respondents perceived that human resources and labour relations personnel did not apply fairness consistently when dealing with disputes of unfair labour practices. The research study concluded by revealing that the success of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in resolving disputes of unfair labour practices is achieved, and handicapped, by persons who are tasked with the responsibility of dealing and managing labour relations in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Labor disputes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43036 , vital:36726
- Description: When grievances do not get resolved in the workplace, they can turn into disputes of unfair labour practices. The use of an internal dispute resolution mechanism, the grievance procedure, is not a new method for resolving disputes of unfair labour practices within the jurisdiction of the workplace. While some organisations benefit from effectively using the internal dispute resolution mechanism, other organisations seem not to yield positive results when applying the very same internal mechanism. This, therefore, raises the question whether the internal grievance procedures effectively used to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices. The main aim of this research study, therefore, is to assess the application of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in order to determine whether the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Pretoria, Gauteng Province of the Republic of South Africa, is effectively applying the internal dispute resolution mechanism to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices in the workplace. To answer the research questions, a literature study was conducted. A literature study was done to find out what other studies have discovered regarding the internal dispute resolution mechanism and unfair labour practices. Deficiencies found in the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the LRA), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; and the intertwine between the application of the common law and labour law further complicate resolutions of disputes of unfair labour practices. As a result, organisations may not be certain which specific law should mainly be taken into account when dealing with labour matters concerning unfair labour practices. As such, the internal dispute resolution mechanism may not be effectively applied in the workplace to minimise or prevent disputes of unfair labour practices from having a negative impact on the organisation. Once an organisation fails to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices inside the workplace, the efficiency of the organisation is compromised. The organisation is at risk of spending more time and possibly more money when disputes of unfair labour practices are referred to external dispute resolution institutions. An empirical research study using a quantitative research method was used to collect data. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from research respondents. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain data from the personnel who are tasked with the duties and responsibilities of dealing and managing labour relations in the organisation. Respondents consisted of labour relations and human resources practitioners and labour relations and human resources managers. Data was obtained from 16 out of 23 respondents, which resulted in a 69% response rate. Findings of the study indicated that the internal dispute resolution mechanism of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality was perceived to be ineffective in resolving disputes hence disputes were referred to external dispute institutions. In the process, the organisation incurred costs in terms of time and money. Furthermore, the time it took to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices negatively affected the morale of employees and productivity in the workplace. Although the majority of respondents had the competencies and skills, some individuals felt that the competencies and skills they had were not sufficient to enable them to deal with dispute resolution effectively. As a result, the lack of required competencies and skills affected the process of the dispute resolution of the organisation by causing delays in resolving unfair labour practices in the workplace. The research indicated that there were inconsistencies in the application of procedures regarding resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practices. As such, respondents perceived the grievance procedure as not being effectively used to reduce the number of disputes from escalating to external dispute resolution institutions. Respondents perceived that human resources and labour relations personnel did not apply fairness consistently when dealing with disputes of unfair labour practices. The research study concluded by revealing that the success of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in resolving disputes of unfair labour practices is achieved, and handicapped, by persons who are tasked with the responsibility of dealing and managing labour relations in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analysis of the existence of the Phillips curve, Okun’s law and Taylor rule in the Zambian economy
- Authors: Chella, Siame Nampasa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Unemployment -- Effect of inflation -- Mathematical models --Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49783 , vital:41800
- Description: The objective for this study was to explore the relationship between inflation and growth with an understanding of the effects of unemployment on growth. The primary objective of this paper was to investigate the existence of Phillips Curve, Okun’s Law, and Taylor Rule in Zambia on the basis that Zambia is a youthful economy, with a growing population, which is expected to temper with unemployment rates, as an increase in the supply of labour might be too high for the demand for jobs available. To be specific, the study aims at determining the relationship between inflation and growth and seeks to understand what policy measures have been undertaken to curb inflation and reduce unemployment in Zambia. To achieve this, a quantitative research was undertaken using the ARDL cointegration model in conjunction with sensitivity tests to cater for structural changes in the economy with 2007 standing as the break point, as well as paying attention to the fact that different policy regimes employed during the course of the data covered, that being, 1996 to 2017, would affect that rates of unemployment, inflation and growth of the country, across period under review. The study revealed that Zambia faces a Hybrid New Keynesian Phillips Curve during the period under study which is dominated by a mixture of both back-ward and forward-looking aspects of inflation. This specifically, paints the effects of inflation persistence as well future expectations of inflation on growth. Further, a cointegration relationship was established between unemployment and output, while Taylor principles were found not to apply to the Zambian economy, which have proved in other economies to be foundation blocks for good economic growth and as such significant to both fiscal and monetary policy authorities of the economy. The researcher therefore recommends that Zambian policy makers, that is, both the fiscal and the monetary authorities, work together in order to attain minimal and optimal levels of inflation to help achieve a conducive economic environment for the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chella, Siame Nampasa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Unemployment -- Effect of inflation -- Mathematical models --Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49783 , vital:41800
- Description: The objective for this study was to explore the relationship between inflation and growth with an understanding of the effects of unemployment on growth. The primary objective of this paper was to investigate the existence of Phillips Curve, Okun’s Law, and Taylor Rule in Zambia on the basis that Zambia is a youthful economy, with a growing population, which is expected to temper with unemployment rates, as an increase in the supply of labour might be too high for the demand for jobs available. To be specific, the study aims at determining the relationship between inflation and growth and seeks to understand what policy measures have been undertaken to curb inflation and reduce unemployment in Zambia. To achieve this, a quantitative research was undertaken using the ARDL cointegration model in conjunction with sensitivity tests to cater for structural changes in the economy with 2007 standing as the break point, as well as paying attention to the fact that different policy regimes employed during the course of the data covered, that being, 1996 to 2017, would affect that rates of unemployment, inflation and growth of the country, across period under review. The study revealed that Zambia faces a Hybrid New Keynesian Phillips Curve during the period under study which is dominated by a mixture of both back-ward and forward-looking aspects of inflation. This specifically, paints the effects of inflation persistence as well future expectations of inflation on growth. Further, a cointegration relationship was established between unemployment and output, while Taylor principles were found not to apply to the Zambian economy, which have proved in other economies to be foundation blocks for good economic growth and as such significant to both fiscal and monetary policy authorities of the economy. The researcher therefore recommends that Zambian policy makers, that is, both the fiscal and the monetary authorities, work together in order to attain minimal and optimal levels of inflation to help achieve a conducive economic environment for the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Analysis of VAT compliance challenges in municipalities
- Authors: Nkonzombi, Linda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Value-added tax -- South Africa , Income tax -- South Africa Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33429 , vital:32864
- Description: The study was carried out to identify challenges that municipalities have with becoming Value Added Tax (‘VAT’) compliant. This study has been prompted by the ongoing findings reported by the Auditor General (‘AG’) in its audit reports. The increasing demand on the services of tax consultants also suggests that municipalities are having challenges in independently fulfilling their tax obligations. It was found that municipalities are often challenged with the application of the following VAT sections: The VAT apportionment methodology, section 8(27) dealing with unallocated payments, VAT reconciliations and claiming of VAT on invalid documentation and where VAT credits are denied. The main causes of non-compliance were identified as complexity of the tax laws, interpretation issues, behavioural attitude, lack of technical expertise within municipalities, and the fact that VAT is a self-assessed tax. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that all municipalities should be required to have a designated tax team to handle the tax matters of a municipality. The municipalities’ governing body, South African Local Government Association (‘SALGA’), should consider introducing penalties to non-VAT compliant municipalities. SARS should establish ‘customer relationships’ with the municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nkonzombi, Linda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Value-added tax -- South Africa , Income tax -- South Africa Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33429 , vital:32864
- Description: The study was carried out to identify challenges that municipalities have with becoming Value Added Tax (‘VAT’) compliant. This study has been prompted by the ongoing findings reported by the Auditor General (‘AG’) in its audit reports. The increasing demand on the services of tax consultants also suggests that municipalities are having challenges in independently fulfilling their tax obligations. It was found that municipalities are often challenged with the application of the following VAT sections: The VAT apportionment methodology, section 8(27) dealing with unallocated payments, VAT reconciliations and claiming of VAT on invalid documentation and where VAT credits are denied. The main causes of non-compliance were identified as complexity of the tax laws, interpretation issues, behavioural attitude, lack of technical expertise within municipalities, and the fact that VAT is a self-assessed tax. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that all municipalities should be required to have a designated tax team to handle the tax matters of a municipality. The municipalities’ governing body, South African Local Government Association (‘SALGA’), should consider introducing penalties to non-VAT compliant municipalities. SARS should establish ‘customer relationships’ with the municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Breaking the poverty cycle: exploring farmers’ strategies to empower employees in the agricultural sector
- Authors: Venter, Morné
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Research -- Economic aspects -- Mathematical models , Industrial productivity , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36772 , vital:34052
- Description: The primary aim of this research project was to explore the various strategies of specific farmers who have chosen to improve productivity through innovative labour management strategies. In particular, to describe strategies that have empowered employees and will enable them to break the poverty cycle. The potential to highlight a business case for quality jobs in the agricultural sector could add to the understanding of labour-intensive agricultural production systems. Participants in this study empower their employees through various means, which includes intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The agricultural sector was specifically targeted in this study as farmworkers are some of the most vulnerable employee-populations in South Africa, because they have a relatively small chance of empowering themselves, or their children, as they are often stuck in the poverty cycle. The research method employed in this study was qualitative in order to gain an in depth understanding of labour management systems (LMS). Information was gathered through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with a number of purposively selected farmers. The participants in this study were selected for a select number of reasons. The main reason being that they employ strategies that empower their employees in various ways to ensure the future employability of these employees. All the participants are committed to ensuring the success of their employees, because this ensures the success of the farms. Farmworkers are one of the cornerstones on which a farming enterprise is built, another cornerstone is the farmer. When these two components understand and respect one another and work with each other, rather than against each other, both will prosper. The approaches that the participants in this study utilise to empower their workers ensure that the poverty cycle for these workers in this semi- and unskilled sector is broken and that they become, not only employable, but invaluable to the farms on which they work. The approaches were categorised from the one end as the point where labour is commodified and treated as a cost factor, the “low road” -this approach aligns with McGregor’s theory X and may be termed “exploitative”. While, at the other end of the continuum of approaches is the view that an employee has potential and investment in the employee will yield commitment and discretionary effort - this approach aligns with McGregor’s theory Y, the “high road”. This includes strategies to improve productivity and empower employees beyond the workplace, and to a certain extent, the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Venter, Morné
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Research -- Economic aspects -- Mathematical models , Industrial productivity , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36772 , vital:34052
- Description: The primary aim of this research project was to explore the various strategies of specific farmers who have chosen to improve productivity through innovative labour management strategies. In particular, to describe strategies that have empowered employees and will enable them to break the poverty cycle. The potential to highlight a business case for quality jobs in the agricultural sector could add to the understanding of labour-intensive agricultural production systems. Participants in this study empower their employees through various means, which includes intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The agricultural sector was specifically targeted in this study as farmworkers are some of the most vulnerable employee-populations in South Africa, because they have a relatively small chance of empowering themselves, or their children, as they are often stuck in the poverty cycle. The research method employed in this study was qualitative in order to gain an in depth understanding of labour management systems (LMS). Information was gathered through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with a number of purposively selected farmers. The participants in this study were selected for a select number of reasons. The main reason being that they employ strategies that empower their employees in various ways to ensure the future employability of these employees. All the participants are committed to ensuring the success of their employees, because this ensures the success of the farms. Farmworkers are one of the cornerstones on which a farming enterprise is built, another cornerstone is the farmer. When these two components understand and respect one another and work with each other, rather than against each other, both will prosper. The approaches that the participants in this study utilise to empower their workers ensure that the poverty cycle for these workers in this semi- and unskilled sector is broken and that they become, not only employable, but invaluable to the farms on which they work. The approaches were categorised from the one end as the point where labour is commodified and treated as a cost factor, the “low road” -this approach aligns with McGregor’s theory X and may be termed “exploitative”. While, at the other end of the continuum of approaches is the view that an employee has potential and investment in the employee will yield commitment and discretionary effort - this approach aligns with McGregor’s theory Y, the “high road”. This includes strategies to improve productivity and empower employees beyond the workplace, and to a certain extent, the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Convergence effects of African GDP with the rest of the world: Analysis the African continental free trade agreement
- Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Authors: Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- Africa -- Statistics , Economic development -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50306 , vital:42102
- Description: This study is an investigation of the convergence hypothesis in African countries motivated by the increasing interest to measure disparities in the establishment of an economic union. The objective of this study is to provide an analysis of convergence in Africa by looking at the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) against 6 of its top trading partner groups. This study seeks to establish whether Africa and African countries who belong to the AfCFTA catchup to the growth rates of their more developed trading partners. The data sample spans from 1971- 2018. The method of analysis employed in this study is a unit root testing procedure using the linear ADF and nonlinear KSS unit root tests, the HEGY and Canova and Hansen seasonal unit root tests, the Lee and Strazicich structural break test, and the Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) and Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Function (FFFFF) unit root tests to account for smooth structural breaks. This study is, as we have reviewed, the first to investigate convergence in the newly established economic union and the first employ the above-mentioned series of unit root tests. The empirical outcomes in this study point towards weak evidence of convergence between Africa and international trade groups when considering the more robust Fourier-based unit root tests. Therefore, we conclude that Africa does not necessarily exhibit catch up effects with a majority of its trading partners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- Africa -- Statistics , Economic development -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50306 , vital:42102
- Description: This study is an investigation of the convergence hypothesis in African countries motivated by the increasing interest to measure disparities in the establishment of an economic union. The objective of this study is to provide an analysis of convergence in Africa by looking at the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) against 6 of its top trading partner groups. This study seeks to establish whether Africa and African countries who belong to the AfCFTA catchup to the growth rates of their more developed trading partners. The data sample spans from 1971- 2018. The method of analysis employed in this study is a unit root testing procedure using the linear ADF and nonlinear KSS unit root tests, the HEGY and Canova and Hansen seasonal unit root tests, the Lee and Strazicich structural break test, and the Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) and Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Function (FFFFF) unit root tests to account for smooth structural breaks. This study is, as we have reviewed, the first to investigate convergence in the newly established economic union and the first employ the above-mentioned series of unit root tests. The empirical outcomes in this study point towards weak evidence of convergence between Africa and international trade groups when considering the more robust Fourier-based unit root tests. Therefore, we conclude that Africa does not necessarily exhibit catch up effects with a majority of its trading partners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Critical assessment of the quality of sustainability disclosures published by public entities in South Africa
- Authors: Nazer, Faith Catherine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sustainable development reporting , Auditing -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32845 , vital:32372
- Description: This study was performed in light of the limited research available regarding the quality of sustainability reporting in the public sector, and particularly in South Africa; and due to the important role which the public sector should play in enhancing sustainable behaviour and consequently sustainability reporting. There have been definite developments in legislation and guidelines which aim to enhance the quality of published sustainability disclosures. Therefore, in light of these developments, the objective of this study was to evaluate whether there has been an improvement in the quality of sustainability disclosures published by selected South African public entities for the 2014 financial year compared to the 2008 financial year. This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect and analyse data. The content analysis method was used in this study, with the coding frame being developed deductively through the use of existing sustainability reporting guidelines. The guidelines analysed and incorporated into the coding frame for this study were the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Generation 4 (G4) guideline and the integrated reporting framework. To ensure that the coding frame contained codes relevant to the South African context, the King III Report on Corporate Governance (King III) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Social Reporting Initiative (JSE SRI) were consulted, and reporting requirements incorporated into the coding frame. Ten Schedule 2 reports and twenty Schedule 3 reports were analysed using the coding frame developed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the resulting data. The Spearman Rank Order Correlation and the Mann-Whitney U Test were used to test for possible statistical significance of the changes in the data observed. This study found a number of significant improvements in the quality of reporting of sustainability disclosures from 2008 to 2014. Significant improvements were noted in the areas of reporting relating to balanced economic and environmental disclosures as well as comparative social disclosures being made. There were also significantly more annual published reports labelled as integrated reports in 2014 as compared to 2008, and significantly more 2014 reports used the GRI guidelines, integrated reporting framework, King III or a combination of these in the preparation of the annual published report. Significantly more tables, graphs and diagrams were used in the disclosure of social and other related matters in 2014, which enhanced the clarity of the information reported. There were also significant improvements noted in the disclosures relating to strategic focus and future orientation of the 2014 annual published reports and in the number of non-economic performance targets included in the public entities’ performance reports. Significant improvement was also noted in the quality of overall social disclosures and specifically in the quality of social disclosures relating to labour practices and decent working conditions, and disclosures relating to the entity’s impacts on society. The word count used to disclose matters relating to stakeholder engagement and board practices, composition and remuneration saw significant increases from 2008 to 2014. Despite these improvements and consistent with prior literature, it is concluded that more needs to be done in respect of reporting on social and environmental impacts, through the use of sustainability reporting guidelines and effective stakeholder engagement. In addition, it is recommended that annual published reports aim to provide a more balanced picture of the reporting entity and that negative performance be discussed in more detail. More effort needs to be made in enhancing the reliability of the annual published reports as a whole, through obtaining external assurance on the social and environmental disclosures. Finally, politicians and decision-makers in the public sector need to address the key root causes which lead to poor quality reporting. The significant impact of the following factors on the quality of sustainability disclosures was noted: the public entity’s total asset value, its total revenue, its level of social and environmental impact, the form of the report used as well as the guidelines used to prepare the reports.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nazer, Faith Catherine
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sustainable development reporting , Auditing -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32845 , vital:32372
- Description: This study was performed in light of the limited research available regarding the quality of sustainability reporting in the public sector, and particularly in South Africa; and due to the important role which the public sector should play in enhancing sustainable behaviour and consequently sustainability reporting. There have been definite developments in legislation and guidelines which aim to enhance the quality of published sustainability disclosures. Therefore, in light of these developments, the objective of this study was to evaluate whether there has been an improvement in the quality of sustainability disclosures published by selected South African public entities for the 2014 financial year compared to the 2008 financial year. This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect and analyse data. The content analysis method was used in this study, with the coding frame being developed deductively through the use of existing sustainability reporting guidelines. The guidelines analysed and incorporated into the coding frame for this study were the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Generation 4 (G4) guideline and the integrated reporting framework. To ensure that the coding frame contained codes relevant to the South African context, the King III Report on Corporate Governance (King III) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Social Reporting Initiative (JSE SRI) were consulted, and reporting requirements incorporated into the coding frame. Ten Schedule 2 reports and twenty Schedule 3 reports were analysed using the coding frame developed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the resulting data. The Spearman Rank Order Correlation and the Mann-Whitney U Test were used to test for possible statistical significance of the changes in the data observed. This study found a number of significant improvements in the quality of reporting of sustainability disclosures from 2008 to 2014. Significant improvements were noted in the areas of reporting relating to balanced economic and environmental disclosures as well as comparative social disclosures being made. There were also significantly more annual published reports labelled as integrated reports in 2014 as compared to 2008, and significantly more 2014 reports used the GRI guidelines, integrated reporting framework, King III or a combination of these in the preparation of the annual published report. Significantly more tables, graphs and diagrams were used in the disclosure of social and other related matters in 2014, which enhanced the clarity of the information reported. There were also significant improvements noted in the disclosures relating to strategic focus and future orientation of the 2014 annual published reports and in the number of non-economic performance targets included in the public entities’ performance reports. Significant improvement was also noted in the quality of overall social disclosures and specifically in the quality of social disclosures relating to labour practices and decent working conditions, and disclosures relating to the entity’s impacts on society. The word count used to disclose matters relating to stakeholder engagement and board practices, composition and remuneration saw significant increases from 2008 to 2014. Despite these improvements and consistent with prior literature, it is concluded that more needs to be done in respect of reporting on social and environmental impacts, through the use of sustainability reporting guidelines and effective stakeholder engagement. In addition, it is recommended that annual published reports aim to provide a more balanced picture of the reporting entity and that negative performance be discussed in more detail. More effort needs to be made in enhancing the reliability of the annual published reports as a whole, through obtaining external assurance on the social and environmental disclosures. Finally, politicians and decision-makers in the public sector need to address the key root causes which lead to poor quality reporting. The significant impact of the following factors on the quality of sustainability disclosures was noted: the public entity’s total asset value, its total revenue, its level of social and environmental impact, the form of the report used as well as the guidelines used to prepare the reports.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Cryptocurrencies in the future of money and monetary policy
- Authors: Brown, Henry Brandon
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47495 , vital:40122
- Description: The idiosyncratic allure of cryptocurrencies, in particular Bitcoin, has attracted widespread, if reticent, attention in the financial markets. Since Bitcoin’s introduction in 2008 there has been a growing interest in digital assets possibly supplanting traditional payment methods. Two conceptual questions raised regarding cryptocurrencies are firstly, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money; secondly, what is the future of cryptocurrencies? This dissertation seeks to examine the future of cryptocurrency by reference to money and monetary policy. The further question, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money, is tested via a combination of theoretical and empirical analysis. The study explores both statistical and empirical models, in illustrative comparative detail, provided by analysis which included ADF and KPSS test models, alongside an ARMA(p,q)-GARCH(1,1) model. Cryptocurrencies present both significant benefits, alongside immense shortcomings. They provide the novel ability to conduct anonymous international transactions on a decentralised platform with lower transaction fees. However, the very nature of that anonymity could provide their downfall as much as they open a market for illicit activities. In addition, cryptocurrency’s significant energy consumption through the mining of cryptocurrencies is of concern to environmentalists. The empirical section of the dissertation consists of a comparative analysis between Bitcoin/USD time series to the Rand/USD time series, with specific attention devoted to the level of volatility of each time series. This was important in determining whether cryptocurrencies fulfil the store of value function of money. The dissertation concluded that Bitcoin/USD time series exhibited identifiable adverse characteristics of autocorrelation and ARCH effects, thus suggesting that Bitcoin/USD is strongly associated with volatility. The Rand/USD signified the same effects although of significantly lesser order than that of Bitcoin/USD. Consequently, cryptocurrencies are seen to act more as an asset than a currency. Nonetheless, cryptocurrencies seem likely to grow as a medium of exchange as more and more businesses gain knowledge of the innovation and seek to adopt innovative ways to become more efficient and follow technology trends. Currently, fiat currencies remain superior in the financial market, simply because cryptocurrencies are perceived not to fulfil the traditional functions of money. However in the future, the market share of cryptocurrencies is likely to increase, and so the future of the financial markets will surely include a coexistence of both fiat and cryptocurrencies, as people’s preferences determine where they feel safe to hold their money.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Brown, Henry Brandon
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47495 , vital:40122
- Description: The idiosyncratic allure of cryptocurrencies, in particular Bitcoin, has attracted widespread, if reticent, attention in the financial markets. Since Bitcoin’s introduction in 2008 there has been a growing interest in digital assets possibly supplanting traditional payment methods. Two conceptual questions raised regarding cryptocurrencies are firstly, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money; secondly, what is the future of cryptocurrencies? This dissertation seeks to examine the future of cryptocurrency by reference to money and monetary policy. The further question, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money, is tested via a combination of theoretical and empirical analysis. The study explores both statistical and empirical models, in illustrative comparative detail, provided by analysis which included ADF and KPSS test models, alongside an ARMA(p,q)-GARCH(1,1) model. Cryptocurrencies present both significant benefits, alongside immense shortcomings. They provide the novel ability to conduct anonymous international transactions on a decentralised platform with lower transaction fees. However, the very nature of that anonymity could provide their downfall as much as they open a market for illicit activities. In addition, cryptocurrency’s significant energy consumption through the mining of cryptocurrencies is of concern to environmentalists. The empirical section of the dissertation consists of a comparative analysis between Bitcoin/USD time series to the Rand/USD time series, with specific attention devoted to the level of volatility of each time series. This was important in determining whether cryptocurrencies fulfil the store of value function of money. The dissertation concluded that Bitcoin/USD time series exhibited identifiable adverse characteristics of autocorrelation and ARCH effects, thus suggesting that Bitcoin/USD is strongly associated with volatility. The Rand/USD signified the same effects although of significantly lesser order than that of Bitcoin/USD. Consequently, cryptocurrencies are seen to act more as an asset than a currency. Nonetheless, cryptocurrencies seem likely to grow as a medium of exchange as more and more businesses gain knowledge of the innovation and seek to adopt innovative ways to become more efficient and follow technology trends. Currently, fiat currencies remain superior in the financial market, simply because cryptocurrencies are perceived not to fulfil the traditional functions of money. However in the future, the market share of cryptocurrencies is likely to increase, and so the future of the financial markets will surely include a coexistence of both fiat and cryptocurrencies, as people’s preferences determine where they feel safe to hold their money.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Determining the effect of ocean proximity on residential property prices in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Hibbers, Vicky
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Mathematical models , Real property -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Real estate management -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Real property -- Valuation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22204 , vital:29874
- Description: Economic contribution studies, including those from a maritime perspective, are of great interest to both governmental and non-governmental organisations, as well as researchers. This interest stems from the increased pressure on land-based resources, and it is expected that this interest in maritime economics will increase (Hosking, Lee, Kaczynsky, Hosking, du Preez and Haines, 2014). A few studies have been undertaken in order to investigate the ocean’s economic contribution in South Africa (Hosking et al., 2014). However, there are other, often overlooked, benefits that the ocean may bring to localised economies, namely its contribution to residential property markets. Over the last decade, this area of research has received considerable international attention (Rinehart and Pompe, 1994; Rush and Briggink, 2000; Taylor and Smith, 2000; Boarnet and Chalermpong, 2001; Major and Lusht, 2004; Conroy and Milosch, 2009; Scorse, Reynolds and Sackett, 2015). The studies revealed the existence of an ocean premium, which is an additional amount added to the value of a home due to it being located near the ocean. However, from a South African perspective, there is a lack of studies in this area. This study seeks to contribute to the body of knowledge by determining the effect of ocean proximity on property prices in Summerstrand, a suburb in Port Elizabeth. The hedonic price model is applied in this regard. A sample size of 104 properties was used for the study, and the various characteristics of the properties obtained from multiple sources. Most importantly, sales prices were obtained from the South African Property Transfer Guide (SAPTG). As the houses were sold in different time periods, it was necessary to adjust the prices to constant 2016 rands. The ABSA house price index was used for this, in order to account for any inflationary changes over the various periods. The results of the study revealed that proximity to the ocean had a statistically significant positive effect on adjacent residential property prices in Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. More specifically, proximity to the ocean is valued at between R133.35 and R329.59 per meter closer to the ocean. From a policy perspective, quantifying this coastal premium in Port Elizabeth may encourage the continued conservation of marine resources within Nelson Mandela Bay. Various studies have shown the positive impact conservation has on property prices, resulting in significant premiums being attached to housing prices, even when property characteristics changed (Leeson, 2012; Chamblee, Colwell, Dehring and Depken, 2011). Economic analysis, which includes hedonic pricing, has also had an impact on the evaluation of environmental policies, with Government agencies being the first to fund studies in order to determine the effects of various externalities on housing prices. On the other hand, litigation has had an even more significant impact on policies, due to it being more tangible evidence (Palmquist and Smith, 2001). The manner in which government, and other bodies, assess and measure property values can also be improved upon. Through the separation of housing characteristics, the true value of the property can be determined. This can result in improved accuracy of property tax calculations, and a more accurate value of future developments (Gilbert, 2013). This can help ensure no unnecessary cost expenditure by both government, and property developers, especially considering the volatile nature of the housing market (Gilbert, 2013). The results of this dissertation are subject to two important qualifications. Firstly, the study does not account for the imperfect information that might be present in the market. Secondly, the relatively small sample size could limit the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Hibbers, Vicky
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Mathematical models , Real property -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Real estate management -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Real property -- Valuation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22204 , vital:29874
- Description: Economic contribution studies, including those from a maritime perspective, are of great interest to both governmental and non-governmental organisations, as well as researchers. This interest stems from the increased pressure on land-based resources, and it is expected that this interest in maritime economics will increase (Hosking, Lee, Kaczynsky, Hosking, du Preez and Haines, 2014). A few studies have been undertaken in order to investigate the ocean’s economic contribution in South Africa (Hosking et al., 2014). However, there are other, often overlooked, benefits that the ocean may bring to localised economies, namely its contribution to residential property markets. Over the last decade, this area of research has received considerable international attention (Rinehart and Pompe, 1994; Rush and Briggink, 2000; Taylor and Smith, 2000; Boarnet and Chalermpong, 2001; Major and Lusht, 2004; Conroy and Milosch, 2009; Scorse, Reynolds and Sackett, 2015). The studies revealed the existence of an ocean premium, which is an additional amount added to the value of a home due to it being located near the ocean. However, from a South African perspective, there is a lack of studies in this area. This study seeks to contribute to the body of knowledge by determining the effect of ocean proximity on property prices in Summerstrand, a suburb in Port Elizabeth. The hedonic price model is applied in this regard. A sample size of 104 properties was used for the study, and the various characteristics of the properties obtained from multiple sources. Most importantly, sales prices were obtained from the South African Property Transfer Guide (SAPTG). As the houses were sold in different time periods, it was necessary to adjust the prices to constant 2016 rands. The ABSA house price index was used for this, in order to account for any inflationary changes over the various periods. The results of the study revealed that proximity to the ocean had a statistically significant positive effect on adjacent residential property prices in Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. More specifically, proximity to the ocean is valued at between R133.35 and R329.59 per meter closer to the ocean. From a policy perspective, quantifying this coastal premium in Port Elizabeth may encourage the continued conservation of marine resources within Nelson Mandela Bay. Various studies have shown the positive impact conservation has on property prices, resulting in significant premiums being attached to housing prices, even when property characteristics changed (Leeson, 2012; Chamblee, Colwell, Dehring and Depken, 2011). Economic analysis, which includes hedonic pricing, has also had an impact on the evaluation of environmental policies, with Government agencies being the first to fund studies in order to determine the effects of various externalities on housing prices. On the other hand, litigation has had an even more significant impact on policies, due to it being more tangible evidence (Palmquist and Smith, 2001). The manner in which government, and other bodies, assess and measure property values can also be improved upon. Through the separation of housing characteristics, the true value of the property can be determined. This can result in improved accuracy of property tax calculations, and a more accurate value of future developments (Gilbert, 2013). This can help ensure no unnecessary cost expenditure by both government, and property developers, especially considering the volatile nature of the housing market (Gilbert, 2013). The results of this dissertation are subject to two important qualifications. Firstly, the study does not account for the imperfect information that might be present in the market. Secondly, the relatively small sample size could limit the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018