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Leadership characteristics and digital transformation in an emerging market: The moderating effect of compliance pressure

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  • Tuyen, Bui Quang
  • Phuong Anh, Do Vu
  • Hung, Ta Huy
  • Lan, Mai Thanh

Abstract

The study examines how leadership characteristics affect the digital transformation of enterprises in Vietnam. Utilizing a micro-econometric approach with a panel dataset spanning from 2016 to 2021, the research reveals that the confidence and education of CEOs significantly influence a firm's digital transformation journey. Additionally, firms led by forward-looking leaders perform better in this transformation process. The study also highlights the significant moderating effect of compliance pressure on the relationship between leadership characteristics and digital transformation. These findings provide essential insights and confirm the perspective of the upper echelons theory regarding the role of leadership.

Suggested Citation

  • Tuyen, Bui Quang & Phuong Anh, Do Vu & Hung, Ta Huy & Lan, Mai Thanh, 2025. "Leadership characteristics and digital transformation in an emerging market: The moderating effect of compliance pressure," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 98(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:98:y:2025:i:c:s1059056025001078
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2025.103944
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Leadership characteristics; Digital transformation; Compliance pressure;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D21 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Firm Behavior: Theory
    • D22 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Firm Behavior: Empirical Analysis
    • D23 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Organizational Behavior; Transaction Costs; Property Rights

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