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Article
Publication date: 8 May 2023

Edib Smolo and Ruslan Nagayev

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of financial development on the economic growth of jurisdictions with systemically important Islamic finance.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of financial development on the economic growth of jurisdictions with systemically important Islamic finance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use several estimation methods. The primary analysis is based on the LSDVC method using a sample of 23 countries covering the period of 2000–2019.

Findings

The findings suggest that the financial sector may not be a significant factor in determining economic growth, or that it may decrease it depending on the proxy used. These results are in line with recent studies and robust across different estimation specifications and methods used.

Practical implications

Finance practitioners may reconsider the way they conduct their daily activities as their impact on economic growth is fading away. Similarly, policymakers should consider the role that financial development plays in economic growth alongside other factors that may influence its impact. It may be necessary to examine the moderating effects of institutional development on the relationship between finance and growth and consider the channels through which financial development can contribute to economic growth. Additionally, it would be useful to study the impact of Islamic finance on economic growth using different data sources.

Originality/value

Although the topic has been explored using different data sets and focusing on different samples, it has not been explored considering the impact of Islamic finance development on economic growth. Given the global appeal of the Islamic finance industry, it is worth investigating its significance for economic growth.

Details

Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0817

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 November 2020

Edib Smolo and Abubakar Muhammad Musa

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the concepts of hilah (legal stratagem or legal trick) and makhraj (legal exit) and to examine their relevance and application in the…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the concepts of hilah (legal stratagem or legal trick) and makhraj (legal exit) and to examine their relevance and application in the contemporary Islamic financial services and products.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the qualitative research approach to provide a theoretical overview of hilah and makhraj literally and technically and to examine their practical applications in Islamic financial products and services. In particular, this paper evaluates several Islamic financial contracts and examines its practices in light of the implications of hilah or makhraj.

Findings

The paper finds that there is a glaring difference in perception and application of hilah and makhraj, as argued by some scholars. It has been found that the principle of hilah has been extensively used in the Islamic finance industry as a way to circumvent the riba prohibition. For example, Islamic financial instruments such as bay’ bithaman al-ajil, bay’ al-‘inah, tawarruq, commodity murabahah, musharakah mutanaqisah and, in some cases, the sale and lease back sukuk are found to be tainted by hilah.

Research limitations/implications

Because this is a theoretical paper, it should be explored in more detail, and critical analysis of Islamic financial services and products should be reviewed in line with these two principles to ascertain if the products and services are in line with Shariah requirements and devoid of hilah practices or not and to align the industry with the maqasid al-Shariah.

Practical implications

This paper identifies a serious challenge that Islamic finance practitioners face in product development in their effort to provide more competitive services to their customers. As a result, it demonstrates the need to proactively use makhraj in innovating Islamic financial products and proffering more sustainable and competitive solutions.

Originality/value

This paper discusses a topic that attempts to dispel the suspicious perceptions of some analysts as to the genuineness of Islamic financial practices.

Details

Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research, vol. 11 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0817

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2022

Aida Hanic and Edib Smolo

This study aims to present a corporate social responsibility (CSR) model that would apply to Islamic banks, considering the international aspect of social responsibility because…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to present a corporate social responsibility (CSR) model that would apply to Islamic banks, considering the international aspect of social responsibility because CSR is not applicable in the same way in all types of societies.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the extensive review of the existing literature, the authors aim to present an Islamic CSR model applicable to Islamic banks. This study is based on the international approach to CSR developed by Masoud (2017). Each responsibility has an equal share but with specific changes regarding the order of priorities between them and the type of responsibility.

Findings

The findings show that the existing literature provides several Islamic CSR models. Most of these models are general and offer guidelines to Islamic financial institutions, but no model applies exclusively to Islamic banks. Using these models for Islamic banks is challenging because of their specific business activities, especially in non-Muslim countries. This study proposes a model that could act as the main guideline for Islamic banks with enough flexibility to meet different market and stakeholders’ requirements.

Practical implications

The model was not tested on a sample, and not all Islamic principles were considered. However, it is applicable for Islamic banks, especially considering internationalization in their businesses and the further development of Islamic banking. At the same time, this model puts ethical norms in the spotlight. This is particularly emphasized in the case of non-Muslim countries or in societies where a particular law does not regulate Islamic bank activities.

Originality/value

Although there is a growing literature on this topic, existing studies primarily discuss the Islamic approach to CSR from the overall perspective, not in a specific industry. While some authors developed their own Islamic CSR models relying on the primary Shariah sources, others base their proposals on other classical CSR ideas. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study based on the CSR model developed by Masoud (2017), considering the relationship between economics and religion and the implications of the Islamic moral economy.

Details

International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8394

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 May 2014

Edib Smolo and Abbas Mirakhor

This paper primarily aims to review and analyze a new model for Islamic finance based on Laurence J. Kotlikoff's idea of limited purpose banking (LPB). In addition, this paper…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper primarily aims to review and analyze a new model for Islamic finance based on Laurence J. Kotlikoff's idea of limited purpose banking (LPB). In addition, this paper aims to highlight, explain and discuss various aspects of LPB and how it suits the original aspirations of pioneer writers in Islamic finance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, this paper aims to highlight, explain and discuss the reform of the Islamic finance industry based on Kotlikoff's model of LPB.

Findings

Based on a modified LPB model, Islamic financial institutions could be established to provide specific services with clear aims and objectives. These LPB Islamic financial institutions would operate in a similar way to LPB.

Research limitations/implications

As there is no perfect plan, the proposal of this paper is far from being perfect and is open to discussions and improvements. The paper will, hopefully, spark off quite a discussion on the topic; may result in a better understanding of the model; and provide some alternative solutions to the current structurally ill financial system.

Practical implications

The paper provides some practical ideas for a better implementation of Shari'ah principles in financial intermediation of the Islamic financial system.

Originality/value

Kotlikoff's LPB proposal for reforming the financial system is new and has been directed to the conventional financial system. This paper represents the first attempt to apply his proposal to the Islamic finance industry.

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2011

Edib Smolo and M. Kabir Hassan

The main purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of mushārakah mutanāqisah (MM; diminishing partnership) technique and its potentials for Islamic financial…

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Abstract

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of mushārakah mutanāqisah (MM; diminishing partnership) technique and its potentials for Islamic financial institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, this paper aims to highlight, explain and discuss the basic principles underlying implementation of MM and its distinctive features when compared to other modes of finance.

Findings

Islamic banks, throughout the years, developed several modes of finance which are more or less similar to their conventional counterparts. In fact, al‐Bayc bithaman al‐ājil (BBA) and murābahah are the two instruments most commonly used by Islamic banks and financial institutions. Investment and financing through the profit and loss sharing instruments is almost nonexistent within the Islamic financial system. MM technique is an alternative financial instrument available for Islamic banks. It is a relatively new and very little used product available for Islamic banks. The paper claims that MM is more in line with Shari'ah teachings and as such should be used more by Islamic financial institutions. The study indicates that MM possibly has a comparative advantage for both financier and the customer when compared with conventional loans and BBA.

Research limitations/implications

As a relatively new and untested mode of finance, the paper offers a theoretical overview only. Further studies should discuss more practical issues that keep banks away from utilizing MM more efficiently.

Originality/value

The comprehensive overview of the MM and underlying issue discussed in this paper is a very good foundation for further studies on the topic. It gives a clear theoretical base for practical implementation of MM.

Details

International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management, vol. 4 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8394

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 November 2010

Edib Smolo and Abbas Mirakhor

The purpose of this paper is to review the evolution of the global financial crisis, draw lessons from it, and analyse its effect(s) on the Islamic financial industry (IFI).

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the evolution of the global financial crisis, draw lessons from it, and analyse its effect(s) on the Islamic financial industry (IFI).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, this paper aims to highlight, explain, and discuss the implications of the global financial crisis for IFI and suggest necessary steps for the future development of the industry.

Findings

The findings show that although the crisis had limited impact on IFI the major flaws of the capitalist financial system are relevant to the development of IFI. Without learning and applying the lessons from the crisis, IFI runs a risk of committing the same mistakes. Finally, greater attention should be given to the fundamental principles of Islamic finance in order to ensure the future development of industry.

Research limitation/implications

The effects of the global financial crisis are still being felt all over the world, and its implications on IFI have yet to be fully understood. Owing to unavailability of relevant data, an empirical study is needed to show the real effects of the crisis on IFI.

Originality/value

The lessons drawn in this paper will raise awareness among both academicians and practitioners about the inherent weaknesses of current financial practices. Furthermore, the paper highlights the major areas that need to be improved for the future development and success of IFI.

Details

International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management, vol. 3 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8394

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 30 August 2011

M. Kabir Hassan

601

Abstract

Details

International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management, vol. 4 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8394

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