|
on Information and Communication Technologies |
| By: | Aravantinos, Elias; Varoutas, Dimitris |
| Abstract: | This study utilizes machine learning (ML) techniques to identify critical factors affecting broadband diffusion and its impact on economic growth in emerging economies. A K-means clustering algorithm has been applied to classify 29 emerging and developing economies using factors such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure, broadband adoption, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Several predictive ML models, such as Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), have been employed to assess the economic effects of broadband adoption and the key drivers of digitaldriven growth. The analysis reveals the significant correlations between ICT development, broadband penetration, FDI, and economic growth, highlighting the critical role of digital infrastructure and targeted policy interventions in fostering sustainable economic development in emerging economies. |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331250 |
| By: | Juthong, Porapan; Saringkarnpoonperm, Suttiwit; Khemakongkanont, Chate |
| Abstract: | This study examines the environmental impact of global ICT expansion, focusing on CO² emissions across 173 countries from 2000 to 2021 using a one-step difference GMM. The findings reveal a two-phase relationship: Early-stage ICT deployment tends to increase emissions; however, as adoption expands, emissions are significantly reduced. The environmental impact of upgrading to 4G/5G networks is not uniform. For nations primarily reliant on 2G/3G infrastructure, the transition yields immediate environmental benefits. Conversely, in advanced ICT nations, the rollout may initially increase emissions, an effect that is later offset by substantial long-term reductions. The study concludes that ICT development does not automatically guarantee environmental benefits. Strategic policies—such as managing the full life cycle of ICT infrastructure from production to disposal, promoting renewable power in the ICT sector, and phasing out legacy networks— are essential to align ICT growth with decarbonization goals. |
| Keywords: | ICT, Mobile Cellular Network, CO² Emissions |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331284 |
| By: | Zuloaga, Gonzalo; Plückebaum, Thomas; Kulenkampff, Gabriele; Wissner, Matthias |
| Abstract: | This study analyses and quantifies the energy consumption and CO₂ emissions associated with operating modern telecommunications access networks, both fixed broadband (FFTH) and mobile networks. To quantify the environmental impacts, specific bottom-up models for the fixed and mobile access network are developed and used to endogenously determine the asset-related quantities of active network elements and their respective energy consumption. The modelling task is carried out for Germany based on household and population data at municipality level from the German Federal Institute for Research on Building and Regional Planning (BBSR), energy consumption data from the EU Code of Conduct on Energy Consumption of Broadband Communication Equipment and the CO₂ emission factor for the electric-ity mix from the German Federal Environment Agency, in order to capture the de-mand for VHCN fixed and mobile access services. Furthermore, the study investigates how different settlement structures shape the environmental footprint of telecommunications networks. Based on these findings, it is analysed whether the use of mobile networks represents a sustainable strategy for the supply of rural areas in comparison to fixed network technologies. From an environmental perspective, mobile networks, especially 5G, are considered as a possible substitute for the provision of broadband access in rural areas. The analysis shows that, from an environmental perspective, FTTH access networks perform better than mobile access networks. These findings hold for any regional structure but are even more significant for rural areas. The analysis focuses on energy consumption and CO2 emissions of network operations. Deployment-related emissions and spill-over effects induced by using ICT for eco-benefits in other sectors are beyond the scope of this analysis. |
| Keywords: | Energy consumption, carbon emissions, fibre access networks, radio access networks, rural areas |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331318 |
| By: | Toyin B, Ajibade |
| Abstract: | We developed “KasuwaGo” mobile app to remove barriers to market participation in West Africa agri-food value chains. Women's adoption and usage of the app remains low in Nigeria. To deepen usage, we introduced a youth-led market-based agent structure to provide ICT support services in transaction creation and trade facilitation for eighty women managed in eight groups in key markets. About 72.5% of the group members gave no consideration to gender in their choice of agent, as they were more concerned with agent's availability and accessibility. Female-managed groups consummated 18% more transactions than male-managed groups (p<0.05) indicating some level of same-gender affinity on engagements beyond transaction initiation. Although potential trade location counts for group members was higher by 6±1 over a 4-week cycle compared to non-group members, the interaction response time to potential trade partners was lower for non-group members app users who were smart phone owners (p<0.05). We found no significant difference in distance of markets participated in by group and non-group members who were “KasuwaGo” app-users on own-smart-phones. Averagely, women traders were willing-to-pay additional NGN110.13 as monthly subscription for app usage. Our findings suggest that providing marketing ICT support is beneficial to mainstreaming women into priority nodes on food value chains. |
| Keywords: | Marketing |
| Date: | 2024–07–26 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:iaae24:344400 |
| By: | Layton, Roslyn; Potgieter, Petrus H.; Prescod, Kwesi |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the persistent digital divide in the Caribbean, where approximately 46% of the population lacks access to 5G, and only 1.9 million households benefit from fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) connectivity. The study identifies factors contributing to inadequate broadband deployment, including geographic challenges, insufficient investment, and regulatory barriers. Drawing on a comprehensive survey of broadband providers across 21 Caribbean nations, the research reveals significant investment gaps, estimating costs of USD $8.6 to $12.9 billion to achieve universal FTTH and 5G access. The paper critically analyzes market dynamics between broadband and major content providers, highlighting a lack of equitable cost-sharing mechanisms and inadequate regulatory frameworks. It advocates for policy interventions and innovative business models to stimulate infrastructure investments, suggesting that collaborative approaches, possibly inspired by models in South Korea and the US, could foster sustainable digital inclusion, economic growth, and social development, particularly benefiting marginalized and rural communities. |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331289 |
| By: | Herrero, Teresa; Navio-Marco, Julio; Bujidos-Casado, María; Mendieta-Aragón, Adrian |
| Abstract: | Extending and upgrading communication networks in rural areas is particularly challenging, due to the difficulties to recover the substantial investments it requires. Scholar and policymakers have identified mobile infrastructures as the most viable solution for these regions, owing to their flexibility and lower deployment costs. Techno-economic assessments supporting these recommendations typically rely on bottom-up demand models, with population as the primary input variable. In contrast to this traditional approach, our study shifts the focus to other variables that are highly relevant for mobile service providers: the number of fixed wireless access (FWA) subscriptions, customers' mobility patterns, and the spatiotemporal dynamics of communication services usage. We analyzed voice and broadband traffic data from all sites operated by a Spanish mobile service provider across different time frames, alongside data on FWA subscriptions per site and the number of mobile visitors per municipality. We began with a descriptive analysis of available data, segmented by municipality size, which revealed the unique characteristics of communication services usage in rural areas. These insights informed the development of both linear and non-linear demand models aimed at identifying the most influential variables driving communications demand at the municipal level. The results underscore the crucial role of non-resident users and FWA services in shaping demand—and, by extension, in guiding infrastructure investment decisions. |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331275 |
| By: | Reed, David P.; Schnitzer, Jason; Sekar, Dhanavikram |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a novel longitudinal analysis of U.S. broadband performance trends from 2011 to 2023 using the Measuring Broadband America (MBA) dataset created and managed by the Federal Communications Commission. By systematically analyzing over a decade of actual user measurements, we quantify the evolution of key performance indicators including download and upload speeds, latency under load, along with their interquartile ranges (IQRs), providing the most comprehensive, empirically grounded portrait of broadband quality change available in the US to date. For example, we document the cumulative annual growth rates (CAGR) of median broadband service download speed of 20% (1.6 Mbps) for DSL, 30% (22 Mbps) for Cable, and 28% (28 Mbps) for Fiber systems between 2011 - 2023. Notably, between 2020 through July 2023, the CAGR in download speed for Fiber increased to 40% (73 Mbps) for Fiber. Our analysis indicates there may be some increase IQR for downstream and upstream speed across all DSL, Cable, and Fiber technologies over the 13-year study, meaning that there may have been an increase in the variability of broadband speeds across the middle 50% of users in the MBA program. We discuss the policy implications of these and other findings and make a concluding argument that as the FCC's MBA program was sunset in 2023, there is a strong need for the creation of a new open data platform to ensure that future broadband policy remains transparent, data-driven, and accountable. This study's data products and software artifacts are available to the research community at https://github.com/UCBoulder/bclear/tree /main. |
| Keywords: | Broadband performance measurement, Internet performance measurement, broadband speed, broadband latency, longitudinal data analysis, Digital Divide |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331298 |
| By: | Bertoletti Alice (European Commission - JRC); Cosgrove Judith (European Commission - JRC); Lopez Cobo Montserrat (European Commission - JRC) |
| Abstract: | "This report provides evidence to inform the European Commission’s Apply AI Strategy — announced in the AI Continent Action Plan and launched to enhance AI adoption in strategic sectors—, by analysing the alignment between AI-related education in the EU and labour market demand. Using Studyportals data (2024–2025) and WIH-OJA online job advertisements (2020–2023), it examines master’s and short courses alongside job advertisements for ICT specialist occupations. The education offer’s content is dominated by Machine Learning, especially in the case of short courses, with notable attention to AI ethics, while generative AI remains marginal. Most programmes that feature AI topics are offered in the ICT field, but relevant provision also exists in Engineering; Business, administration and law, and other disciplines, albeit with low penetration. AI-related job demand is highly concentrated in software and applications developers and analysts occupations (62% of AI-related OJAs) and database and network professionals, with strong AI specialisation in systems analysts. The most in-demand job profile in AI-related OJAs is the AI/ML Engineering, appearing in almost one-third of the job advertisements that explicitly mention AI job profiles, followed by Data Analysis, Data Engineering, and AI/ML Development. Together, these four profiles account for 98% of all job descriptions referring to AI roles. While AI-related education offer and ICT specialists jobs demand are broadly aligned, limited AI integration in the academic offer of non-ICT fields and in emerging technologies may lead to future skills gaps in some sectors." |
| Date: | 2025–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc143488 |
| By: | Valarezo-Unda, Angel; Capilla, Javier; Pérez-Amaral, Teodosio; Garcia-Hiernaux, Alfredo; López, Rafael |
| Abstract: | Using the 2014 – 2021 waves of Spain's ICT-H household panel, we track Internet trust for 59, 648 internet users across 130, 013 person-year observations. A correlated random-effects ordered-probit model shows that improvements in digital skills and first-hand use of transactional services are the strongest and most consistent predictors of higher trust, while traditional socio-economic markers play a secondary role. Once skill levels are controlled, age differences largely vanish, but women still report lower trust and the pandemic years register a notable dip, pointing to attitudinal and systemic factors that skill policies alone cannot solve. The findings highlight the need for advanced skill training, guided initial transactions and robust consumer safeguards, particularly for women and low-income users, if Spain is to close its remaining trust gap and achieve inclusive digitalization. |
| Keywords: | Internet trust, digital inclusion, socio-economic determinants, panel data, digital skills, Eco-RETINA, Spain, ICT-H survey |
| JEL: | C33 D83 L86 O33 O35 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331314 |
| By: | Ioannou, Nikos; Kokkinis, Dimitris; Chipouras, Aristides; Katsianis, Dimitris; Vouyioukas, Demosthenes; Varoutas, Dimitris |
| Abstract: | The emergence of 4G/5G broadband networks, which enable high-speed data and real-time video, marks a critical turning point for Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) communications. However, their adoption depends on overcoming the technical, regulatory, and economic challenges. This study applies a comprehensive techno-economic evaluation, combining radio coverage modelling, cost modeling, and business model analysis, to compare two deployment strategies in Greece. A fully public, dedicated Government-Owned Government-Operated (GO-GO) network and a Contractor-Owned Contractor-Operated (COCO) model leveraging a commercial 5G network via network slicing. We find the CO-CO model to be roughly 44% more cost-efficient over a 10-year horizon than GO-GO, largely due to the reuse of existing sites, fiber backhaul, and shared spectrum resources. In contrast, the GO-GO approach affords full governmental control and security isolation but is constrained by a narrow dedicated spectrum and incurs higher capital and operational costs, yielding only a limited broadband capacity. Under strict service-level agreements, the CO-CO scenario can deliver comparable mission-critical reliability while enabling greater flexibility and scalability through continuous 5G upgrades. These findings have broad policy relevance for Greece and similar EU countries, suggesting that shared infrastructure partnerships offer a more affordable and effective path to modernize PPDR networks. |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331277 |
| By: | Jung, Juan; Aquije Ballon, Harry; Castells, Pau; Bahia, Kalvin |
| Abstract: | This research aims to identify the main drivers of Quality of Service (QoS) metrics for wireless telecommunications services, evaluating the impact that regulatory requirements have on mobile network quality. To answer our research question, we developed a panel consisting of a global sample of countries, compiling some of the most common QoS metrics for mobile broadband (such as download and upload speed, and latency), plus an extensive set of controls. Our empirical strategy consists in two-way fixed-effects (TWFE) models complemented with novel differences-in-differences techniques. The results suggest that the introduction of QoS regulations has not resulted in any positive effect for the performance of wireless telecommunications services. Instead, the results suggest that policymakers intending to maximize network performance should focus on other key areas such as spectrum availability, the introduction of the latest technological standards and expanded smartphone penetration. |
| Keywords: | mobile, internet, telecommunications, QoS, regulation |
| JEL: | L86 L96 D04 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331283 |
| By: | Lewandowski, Piotr; Madoń, Karol; Park, Albert |
| Abstract: | This paper develops a task-adjusted, country-specific measure of workers' exposure to Artificial Intelligence (AI) across 108 countries. Building on Felten et al. (2021), we adapt the Artificial Intelligence Occupational Exposure (AIOE) index to worker-level PIAAC data and extend it globally using comparable surveys and regression-based predictions, covering about 89% of global employment. Accounting for country-specific task structures reveals substantial cross-country heterogeneity: workers in low-income countries exhibit AI exposure levels roughly 0.8 U.S. standard deviations below those in high-income countries, largely due to differences in within-occupation task content. Regression decompositions attribute most cross-country variation to ICT intensity and human capital. High-income countries employ the majority of workers in highly AI-exposed occupations, while lowincome countries concentrate in less exposed ones. Using two PIAAC cycles, we document rising AI exposure in high-income countries, driven by shifts in within-occupation tasks rather than employment structure. |
| Abstract: | In diesem Beitrag wird ein länderspezifischer, aufgabenangepasster Maßstab für die Exposition von Arbeitnehmern gegenüber künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) in 108 Ländern entwickelt. Aufbauend auf Felten et al. (2021) passen wir den Index für die berufliche Exposition gegenüber KI (AIOE) an die PIAAC-Daten auf Arbeitnehmerebene an. Unter Verwendung vergleichbarer Umfragen und regressionsbasierter Prognosen, die etwa 89 % der weltweiten Beschäftigung abdecken, erweitern wir ihn weltweit. Die Berücksichtigung länderspezifischer Aufgabenstrukturen zeigt erhebliche Unterschiede zwischen den Ländern. So weisen Arbeitnehmer in Ländern mit niedrigem Einkommen ein AI-Expositionsniveau auf, das etwa 0, 8 Standardabweichungen unter dem von Ländern mit hohem Einkommen liegt. Dies ist hauptsächlich auf Unterschiede in den Aufgabeninhalten innerhalb eines Berufs zurückzuführen. Regressionszerlegungen führen die meisten Unterschiede zwischen den Ländern auf die IKT-Intensität und das Humankapital zurück. Hochlohnländer beschäftigen die Mehrheit der Arbeitnehmer in Berufen mit hoher KI-Exposition, während sich Niedriglohnländer auf Berufe mit geringerer Exposition konzentrieren. Anhand von zwei PIAAC-Zyklen dokumentieren wir eine steigende KI-Exposition in Hochlohnländern. Diese ist eher auf Veränderungen innerhalb der Aufgabenbereiche als auf Veränderungen in der Beschäftigungsstruktur zurückzuführen. |
| Keywords: | job tasks, occupations, AI, technology, skills |
| JEL: | J21 J23 J24 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:rwirep:331883 |
| By: | Ruíz-Rúa, Aurora; Martínez de Ibarreta Zorita, Carlos; Gijón, Covadonga; Fernández-Bonilla, Fernando |
| Abstract: | This paper explores the influence of home digitization and various sociodemographic factors on the adoption and intensive use of e-tourism among residents in Spain, with a particular focus on rural destinations and sustainable mobility practices. The utilization of nationally representative microdata from the Resident Tourism Survey (FAMILITUR) and the Survey on ICT Equipment and Use in Households (INE) for the period 2017–2023 has facilitated the estimation of logit and ordered logit models, which have been employed to characterize the digital behaviour of tourists. The findings indicate the presence of a second and third digital divide, with educational level, income, and digital competence significantly increasing the likelihood of independent trip planning and the adoption of more sustainable tourist behaviours. In contrast, older adults, rural tourists and individuals engaged in traditional leisure activities demonstrate a more limited utilization of digital instruments. The present paper emphasizes the way digital inequalities impede equitable access to tourism, thereby exerting a profound impact on rural development and the formulation of inclusive public policies. These findings contribute to the advancement of knowledge regarding the digitization needs of tourism, territorial cohesion, and sustainability in peripheral contexts. |
| Keywords: | e-tourism, rural, e-mobility, digital divide |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331302 |
| By: | Andrés Azcoitia, Santiago; Illescas Cabiró, Sergio; Frías Barroso, Zoraida |
| Abstract: | The transition to greener energy sources and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are essential to mitigating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future. Although the ICT sector currently accounts for a modest share of global emissions, its contribution is expected to soar due to the rapid growth in data and computing demand in all industry verticals, driven by the deployment of 6G that will enable AI-driven services by providing ultra-reliable, low-latency, and high-capacity connectivity across the cloud–edge continuum. Initiatives like 6Green are developing technical capabilities to measure and expose information on GHG emissions associated with 6G network services throughout the value chain. However, such technical enablers are not sufficient to incentivise investment in sustainable infrastructures and the adoption of green services. This paper introduces a techno-economic framework to evaluate policy mechanisms for promoting greener network and infrastructure in the 6G ecosystem. The model captures interactions between stakeholders under varying market conditions, integrates sustainability key performance indicators (KPIs), such as carbon emissions, and operationalises the concept of Decarbonisation Level Agreements (DLAs) as an extension of traditional Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Four policy options are compared: laissez-faire, infrastructure subsidisation, uniform DLA enforcement, and a tiered DLAs allowing for green premium services. Results show that while strict DLAs and subsidies can reduce emissions, they may also introduce cost and capacity constraints unless carefully designed. Tiered approaches, which combine regulation with market-driven incentives and user awareness, offer a more balanced and scalable path toward sustainability. |
| Keywords: | Mobile networks, 6G, economics, sustainability |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331249 |
| By: | Ojha, Manini; Gupta, Sagnik Kumar; Dhamija, Gaurav |
| Abstract: | This paper evaluates the causal impact of women's exposure to the internet on their attitudes towards intimate partner violence (IPV) using data from the most recent round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). To address potential endogeneity, we exploit exogenous variation in district-level mobile tower density in India as an instrument for women's internet exposure. The instrumental variables estimation provides robust evidence that a woman's exposure to internet reduces her likelihood of justifying IPV by 21 percentage points. We also provide suggestive evidence that higher awareness and physical mobility are potential mechanisms through which internet exposure shapes attitudes. Our findings highlight the transformative potential of digital connectivity in challenging regressive gender norms. |
| Keywords: | Internet Exposure, Tower Density, Intimate Partner Violence, Attitudes, Instrumental Variable, NFHS, India |
| JEL: | C26 J12 J16 I30 O12 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:glodps:1696 |
| By: | Fahmida Khatun; Muntaseer Kamal; Foqoruddin Al Kabir; Preetilata Khondaker Huq |
| Abstract: | In today’s world, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping economic activities by driving growth in both industrial and service sectors. Digital literacy has the potential to empower youth and women by providing access to education, economic opportunities, and social participation, thus fostering a more inclusive society. |
| Keywords: | technology empowerment, digital literacy, youth empowerment, women empowerment, digital skills development, inclusive growth, social participation, industrial growth |
| Date: | 2025–04 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pdb:pbrief:69 |
| By: | Samaké, Said-Nour |
| Abstract: | This paper examines how the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) or Content and Application Provider (CAP) services reshapes the revenue and investment behavior of telecommunications operators in mobile and fixed broadband markets. A micro-founded theoretical framework links OTT engagement to operators’ pricing and investment incentives, and the predictions are tested empirically using a multi-country quarterly panel (2017 Q3–2024 Q2) combining operator and application-level data. The empirical strategy combines multi-way fixed effects, shift-share instrumental variables (SSIV), and dynamic System GMM estimation to address endogeneity and persistence. Results show that greater OTT usage significantly lowers the average revenue per connection (ARPC) in mobile markets. As users access identical OTT platforms through any network, perceived differentiation between operators vanishes. Price competition intensifies under flat-rate plans, preventing operators from monetizing growing data traffic and leading to revenue dilution. In contrast, the effect on fixed broadband ARPU remains weak, reflecting cost-based pricing and utility-type demand. On the investment side, rising OTT traffic increase capital expenditure (CapEx) as operators expand network capacity. In European mobile markets, investment follows an inverted-U pattern with market concentration, peaking at intermediate levels. Revenue losses from OTT usage are also less pronounced in moderately concentrated markets but stronger in fragmented ones. Overall, OTT expansion erodes monetization while compelling operators to invest to sustain rising traffic. This structural tension exposes a trade-off between static efficiency, constrained by declining revenues, and dynamic efficiency, preserved through continued investment. Policy frameworks should balance competition, pricing flexibility, and value sharing between connectivity and content providers. |
| Keywords: | Telecommunication, Two-sided market, Big Tech, CAP, OTT |
| JEL: | D71 L51 K23 L86 L93 O32 O33 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331303 |
| By: | Savunen, Tapio; Töyli, Juuso; Mähönen, Petri |
| Abstract: | This study examines the business aspects of mobile network operators (MNOs) in public safety mobile broadband projects using MNOs' 4G/5G networks. It compares incremental and waterfall project management approaches to assess their impact on MNO profitability, public funding requirements, and the management of investment uncertainty through real options. A discounted cash flow model was used to evaluate both approaches from the perspectives of MNOs and government authorities (GAs). The findings show that the incremental project management approach outperforms the waterfall approach for both MNOs and GAs, improving MNO profitability and reducing public funding needs through phased service introduction and user adoption. The choice between project management approaches depends on project goals – whether to prioritise rapid technology replacement or added value for public safety users. This study supports MNOs in optimising financial outcomes in public safety projects, provides strategic guidance for GAs in designing effective public safety procurement processes, and offers policy recommendations for regulation. |
| Keywords: | mobile network operator, public safety, public funding, incremental project management, real options |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331305 |
| By: | Claeys, Peter; Gómez-Bengoechea, Gonzalo; Jung, Juan; Van Der Wielen, Wouter; Weiss, Christoph |
| Abstract: | This article analyzes if the Internet of Things (IoT) can contribute to increasing energy productivity across firms that adopt this technology. The empirical analysis is based on a sample of more than 8, 000 firms from various sectors across 26 European countries, surveyed by the European Investment Bank across the years 2022 and 2023. Methodologically, we combine two-way fixed-effects models (TWFE), differences-in-differences and matching methods. Our results indicate significant effects of IoT on energy productivity, although these effects seem to be concentrated among manufacturing/construction sectors and medium/big firms only. Our findings suggest that digital technologies such as IoT can potentially play a key role in energy transitions toward more sustainable economies. |
| Keywords: | Internet of Things, Digitization, Energy productivity, Energy efficiency |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331263 |
| By: | Daman-Guilé Diawara (Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako - USSGB - Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako); Amidou Ballo (Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako - USSGB - Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako) |
| Abstract: | The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on vocational training and entrepreneurship in Africa is significant and multidimensional. AI is transforming teaching and learning methods, allowing for the personalisation of training according to the individual needs of learners. AIbased tools also facilitate access to quality educational resources, particularly in remote areas. From where the issue addressed: Impact of artificial intelligence on vocational training and entrepreneurship in Africa. In the field of entrepreneurship, the adoption of AI offers start-ups opportunities to improve operational efficiency, optimise decision-making processes, and respond more quickly to market needs. Entrepreneurs who integrate AI solutions into their business models can access new data sources , enabling them to identify trends and anticipate consumer demands. However, challenges remain, including limited access to technology and digital infrastructure, as well as the need for tailored training to develop the skills necessary for using AI. To maximise the positive impact of AI, it is crucial to encourage collaborative initiatives between the educational, entrepreneurial, and technological sectors. In conclusion, AI has the potential to transform vocational training and entrepreneurship in Africa, but a concerted approach is needed to overcome obstacles and fully leverage these opportunities. |
| Keywords: | Training Entrepreneurship Artificial Intelligence (AI) Africa Digital Skills Startups, Training, Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Africa, Digital Skills, Startups |
| Date: | 2025–10–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05320607 |
| By: | Mamakou, Irene; Markantoni, Athina; Kargas, Antonios D. |
| Abstract: | Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the landscape of diplomacy, fundamentally altering how states conduct foreign relations, public engagement, and policy decision-making. This article investigates the integration of AI into diplomatic practices at operational, tactical, and strategic levels, with a focus on how AI can enhance administrative efficiency, support public diplomacy, and enhance foreign policy. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines an extensive literature review with original survey data from 39 diplomats to address three core research questions: diplomats' perceptions of AI integration, the main barriers and facilitators to AI adoption, and the training needs required for effective AI use. The findings reveal that while diplomats demonstrate strong foundational digital skills and are increasingly adopting AI tools for communication and information management, the uptake of advanced applications such as predictive analytics and cybersecurity remains limited. Key barriers include insufficient training, resource constraints, and ethical and legal concerns, while facilitators involve the perceived benefits of AI for efficiency and strategic engagement. The study highlights a substantial demand for targeted training and institutional support to bridge existing gaps. Ultimately, the research underscores that successful and responsible AI adoption in diplomacy requires ongoing investment in digital competencies, robust governance frameworks, and the development of ethical standards, ensuring that technological advancements translate into more effective, adaptive, and transparent diplomatic practice. |
| Keywords: | AI in diplomacy, AI in foreign policy, Digital diplomacy and national interests, AI in international relations, AI in crisis management and negotiation, AI and public diplomacy, diplomatic training, barriers in digital diplomacy |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331291 |
| By: | Karadimas, Ioannis; Katsianis, Dimitris |
| Abstract: | With 6G networks on the horizon bringing ultra-low latency, built-in AI, and truly immersive connections—we have a unique chance to transform the telecom industry. As Communication Service Providers (CSPs) move towards more flexible and virtualized systems, marketplaces are becoming key platforms for unlocking new business models and revenue opportunities. This paper investigates the transformative role of next-generation marketplaces within the 6G mobile ecosystem. Through an extensive literature review and an analytical framework, we map the evolution of marketplace implementations, analyze the critical role of marketplace implementations in driving operational efficiency and revenue diversification, and propose a novel business model. A Marketplace-Driven Business Model for a CSP is proposed. In the proposed business model, various stakeholders and users are involved, creating an interconnected digital ecosystem where services are provided, consumed, and monetized. Understanding these interactions is vital for fostering sustainable growth and maximizing value creation in next-generation digital services. The results provide insights into monetization flows highlighting the strategic pathways for CSPs in the 6G era. |
| Keywords: | 6G networks, Communication Service Provider, Marketplace, Business model, Monetization, Mobile Network Operator |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331285 |
| By: | Dempsey, Seraphim; Mahon, Ben |
| Abstract: | Climate mitigation policies have resulted in increased rates of residential energy efficiency retrofitting. However, building materials with low thermal transmissivity often have higher radio signal attenuation rates which can reduce indoor service quality for mobile phone users. This paper empirically documents this phenomenon in Ireland by linking administrative data on Building Energy Ratings, with reports of in-home mobile quality of service (QoS) issues collected from a nationally representative survey on mobile consumer experiences in Q2 2022. Importantly, we consider local telecommunication infrastructure by exploiting rich market intelligence data from the National Regulatory Authority. This allows us to account for the quality of outdoor mobile coverage and active fixed line broadband connections at the household level. We find a positive association between living in areas with higher proportions of energy efficient homes and the probability of reporting an issue with indoor mobile phone signal. This highlights the importance of aligning energy efficiency policy with telecommunication policy to ensure future connectivity is safeguarded. |
| Keywords: | mobile signal attenuation, residential energy efficiency, quality of service |
| JEL: | L96 R28 O13 O18 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331265 |
| By: | Castells, Pau; Zagdanski, Jakub |
| Abstract: | We investigate the economic justification for market-based payments from large internet traffic generators (LTGs) to network operators and internet service providers (ISPs) to support network investments, connectivity, and digital society objectives. Our analysis addresses ongoing debates about the LTG-ISP relationship. First, we confirm that traffic volume significantly influences network costs, countering claims to the contrary. Second, we frame telecommunications as a two-sided market where consumers access content and content providers reach consumers via networks, with payment structures varying based on market dynamics, as seen in other two-sided markets. We argue that extending incentives for efficient network use solely to consumers is ineffective due to their limited control over data consumption and transmission. In contrast, LTGs possess the technical expertise and capability to manage data flows, including optimizing their services' traffic generation, making them better candidates for such incentives. Despite this, market-based payment solutions have not gained traction. We identify regulatory constraints, such as net-neutrality rules, universal service obligations, and peering/interconnection regulations, as key factors reducing network operators' bargaining power. This asymmetry hinders their ability to negotiate agreements that effectively incentivize LTGs to use networks efficiently, limiting the adoption of such payment models. |
| Keywords: | Telecommunications economics, Large traffic generators (LTGs), Internet service providers (ISPs), Two-sided markets, Interconnection agreements |
| JEL: | L96 L51 L13 O33 D62 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itse25:331256 |