The use of credit cards and consumer access models: Patterns of use in Albanian banks
Over the past few decades, there has been a shift of people from using traditional payment methods to digital methods, thus creating innovation in the payment system. Nowadays, the market is determined to bring a different culture to Albania. The purpose of this study, which is based on the use of credit cards in the Albanian market, especially in Tirana, is to determine the attitude of society towards these credit cards. A questionnaire distributed among 100 consumers was used for primary data collection. This study contains both qualitative analysis and quantitative data analysis. The qualitative analysis addresses the ABC model of behavior, the use of credit cards, and the inflation problems caused by their use. The quantitative analysis highlights model statistics as well as the study of econometric analysis, based on the independent variables that are considered, such as monthly income level, security, prestige, and interest rate, which are thought to have a strong relationship with the use of credit cards as well as the expenses incurred during their use. Age, gender, monthly income, employment status, the reason for use, frequency of use per month, and duration of use are considered in the statistical model. Various tests have been developed to provide an accurate estimate of the relationship of variables using the SPSS Statistics program. All independent variables have exhibited a positive impact concerning the dependent variable. This paper aims to show the perceptions of people who use credit cards and those who hold a negative attitude about their use.
The impact of EU funds on the development of agriculture in Albania
In the process of Albania’s European integration, agriculture represents a strategic sector of particular importance for economic development and the improvement of living conditions in rural areas. The European Union, through its pre-accession funds, in particular the IPARD (Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance for Rural Development) program, has offered concrete opportunities for the modernization of the Albanian agricultural sector. The aim of this paper is to examine the direct and indirect impact of EU funds on increasing productivity, improving the quality and standards of production, as well as on the development of the rural economy. The paper analyzes the progress achieved through EU-supported investments in Albanian farms, including the use of modern technologies, the development of agritourism and support for the processing of agricultural products. It also highlights the challenges related to the absorption of funds, institutional capacities and the lack of information for farmers. Through this analysis, concrete measures are suggested to improve the access and efficiency of European funds in the function of sustainable rural and agricultural development.