Unpacking the dynamics: The influence of M&A networks on e-innovation in African Listed Firms

Suleman Bawa et al.

South African Journal of Business Management2025https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v56i1.4926article
AJG 1ABDC C
Weight
0.44

What the paper says

Purpose: This study examines the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) networks on e-innovation networks within African-listed firms. It provides empirical evidence of how M&A influences e-innovation, emphasising the roles of resource acquisition and market dynamics in promoting innovation, technological advancement, and economic growth. Design/methodology/approach: Employing a quantitative research design, this study analyses the relationship between M&A and e-innovation networks among African-listed firms. Through purposive sampling, it evaluates 238 firms involved in M&A transactions from 2010 to 2023. Multiple regression models are used to test hypotheses regarding the structural characteristics of M&A networks and their impact on e-innovation, with robustness tests conducted to ensure reliability. This approach offers insights into how resource acquisition and market volatility influence e-innovation within the African corporate context. Findings/results: The study reveals that M&A networks significantly impact e-innovation networks in African firms, with resource acquisition enhancing e-innovation capabilities. Additionally, market volatility further strengthens this relationship. These findings suggest that leveraging M&A networks is vital for fostering innovation across various firm types, and targeted governmental support could enhance these effects. Practical implications: The results indicate that M&A networks can substantially boost e-innovation in African firms. Businesses are encouraged to pursue strategic mergers to access new technologies and drive economic growth, while policymakers should support M&A activities that align with innovation and economic development goals. Originality/value: This article explores the role of M&A networks in influencing e-innovation within African-listed firms, filling a significant gap in the existing literature and offering valuable insights for corporate strategists and policymakers.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v56i1.4926

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@article{suleman2025,
  title        = {{Unpacking the dynamics: The influence of M&A networks on e-innovation in African Listed Firms}},
  author       = {Suleman Bawa et al.},
  journal      = {South African Journal of Business Management},
  year         = {2025},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v56i1.4926},
}

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Evidence weight

0.44

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.32 × 0.4 = 0.13
M · momentum0.57 × 0.15 = 0.09
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.