B. Espen Eckbo | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Prof. B. Espen Eckbo | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Dartmouth College | United States

B. Espen Eckbo is a globally recognized scholar in corporate finance and one of the field’s most influential empirical researchers. He is the Tuck Centennial Professor of Finance at the Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College, and has held distinguished academic appointments at leading institutions including the University of British Columbia, Stockholm School of Economics, Norwegian School of Economics, MIT Sloan, UCLA, INSEAD, and Vanderbilt University. With a Ph.D. in Financial Economics from the University of Rochester, Professor Eckbo has built a four-decade research career that has shaped modern understanding of takeovers, corporate governance, capital structure, bankruptcy, and competition policy. He has authored major handbooks, edited influential volumes on corporate finance, and published widely in top-tier journals such as the Journal of Finance, Journal of Financial Economics, Review of Finance, Management Science, and Journal of Corporate Finance. Ranked among the world’s top finance scholars—including a 2024 ScholarGPS ranking of worldwide in Corporate Finance—he has earned numerous honors such as the Barclays Global Investors/Michael Brennan Prize, multiple Best Paper Awards, “All Star Papers” in JFE, and an honorary doctorate from the Norwegian School of Economics. Professor Eckbo is also the founding director of the Lindenauer Center and Forum for Governance Research at Dartmouth and has served on editorial boards, research councils, and scientific advisory committees across Europe and North America. With extensive keynote lectures, major research grants, and high-impact collaborations, he continues to advance empirical corporate finance through rigorous scholarship, editorial leadership, and global academic engagement.

Citation Metrics (Google Scholar)

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Citations
15,456

i10index
73

 h-index
42

Featured Publications

Horizontal mergers, collusion, and stockholder wealth
– Journal of Financial Economics, 1983 • Citations: 1,764
Corporate takeovers
– Handbook of Empirical Corporate Finance, 2008 • Citations: 975
Valuation effects of corporate debt offerings
– Journal of Financial Economics, 1986 • Citations: 945
Seasoned public offerings: Resolution of the ‘new issues puzzle’
– Journal of Financial Economics, 2000 • Citations: 825
Asymmetric information and the medium of exchange in takeovers: Theory and tests
– The Review of Financial Studies, 1990 • Citations: 672

Ruixian Song | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Ruixian Song | Econometrics and Finance | Research Excellence Award

Guangzhou University | China

Dr. Ruixian Song is a doctoral researcher in Statistics with a scholarly focus on quantitative finance, green financial systems, and digital innovation supporting sustainable rural and ecological development. Her academic training spans financial engineering and applied finance, progressing with strong research performance, competitive rankings, and multiple distinctions, including the prestigious National Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award in Finance—a recognition granted to a small number of high-impact theses nationwide. Her research contributions include peer-reviewed articles and a master’s dissertation addressing financial service innovation, agricultural financing mechanisms, rural revitalization policies, and insurance models supporting green development. These works have informed discussions in academic, government, and applied finance settings. She has delivered research presentations at national academic forums such as the Lingnan Academic Forum on Digital Empowerment, the Chinese Macroeconomy Symposium, and the Young Economist Society Forum. In addition to academic research, she has gained professional experience in research institutions and the financial sector, contributing to provincial-level policy studies, major research programs, and applied financial analysis. Her work has included project proposal development, policy evaluations, and sectoral research on industrial finance and sustainable investment, some of which has been adopted in institutional and governmental analytical reports. Ruixian’s methodological expertise includes econometric modeling, quantitative analysis, and computational statistics, with proficiency in Stata, Python, and MATLAB. She also holds multiple professional certifications related to securities analysis and financial practice. Her research vision is centered on advancing evidence-based financial innovation that aligns environmental sustainability, digital transformation, and inclusive development. Through interdisciplinary scholarship and policy-oriented inquiry, she aims to support the evolution of green finance frameworks and contribute to the broader transformation toward resilient and equitable economic systems.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Liu, J., Song, R., & Fu, Y. (2025). Digital finance empowering corporate ESG performance: The dual-engine role of digital transformation and green technological innovation. Sustainability, 17(23), Article 10743.

Md. Shoriful Islam | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Md. Shoriful Islam | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Zhengzhou University, China

Mr. Md. Shoriful Islam, a Bangladeshi academic and researcher, is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Applied Economics at the Business School of Zhengzhou University, China, where his doctoral thesis focuses on the multidimensional effects of microfinancing on sustainable development, particularly poverty alleviation, unemployment reduction, and environmental sustainability. He holds both BBA and MBA degrees in Finance and Banking from Rajshahi University, where he graduated with top honors, securing first position in his BBA batch and second in MBA, alongside a strong academic foundation from Pabna Zilla School and Govt. Edward College. Professionally, he has accumulated more than 15 years of teaching and academic leadership experience, serving as Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and Assistant Professor at Northern University Bangladesh before joining Zhengzhou University, with additional responsibilities as Program Coordinator for BBA, MBA, and Internship & Placement Programs. His research interests lie in development economics, social entrepreneurship, renewable energy consumption, and sustainable finance, integrating advanced econometric modeling with policy-relevant insights. Islam is skilled in data analysis software such as STATA, R, Python, EViews, and proficient in curriculum design, student mentorship, program coordination, and academic event management. His scholarly work has appeared in high-impact international journals such as Sustainable Development (Wiley), Journal of Knowledge Economy (Springer), Innovation and Green Development (Elsevier), and Environmental Science & Pollution Research (Springer Nature), contributing to debates on social enterprises, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability, with 6 Scopus-indexed publications, 23 citations, and an h-index of 2. He has presented at international conferences and forums, engaging with scholars and practitioners on finance, social enterprises, and sustainability. Among his honors, he received a Gold Medal from Rajshahi University for his outstanding BBA performance. In conclusion, Md. Shoriful Islam exemplifies a dedicated scholar whose academic excellence, impactful research, teaching contributions, and international collaborations position him as a future leader in applied economics and sustainable development.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Ayoungman, F. Z., Islam, M. S., Chishti, M. Z., & Shawon, A. H. (2024). A pathway towards sustainable development: Analysing the influential role of microfinancing on environmental quality in developing nations. Sustainable Development. Wiley. (SSCI indexed, Impact Factor: 8.2, CiteScore: 14.5, JCR Q1).

Ayoungman, F. Z., Islam, M. S., Zhang, F. L., et al. (2024). Social enterprise’s initiatives for socioeconomic sustainability: Appraisal based on morphogenetic/morphostatic approach and opportunity co-creation theory. Journal of Knowledge Economy. Springer Nature. (ABS 1 indexed, JCR Q1).

Ayoungman, F. Z., Islam, M. S., Masukujjaman, M., Shawon, A. H., & Mahmud, A. A. (2024). Financial factors influencing investment willingness in environment-friendly business: Empirical study on an emerging economy. Innovation and Green Development, 4(1). Elsevier.

Islam, M. S. (2024). Nongovernmental organizations transforming into social enterprises in the process of institutionalizing solutions to major social crises for ensuring sustainable social development. Zakaria Journal of Social Science, 4(1), 41–55. ISSN: 2957-4897.

Ayoungman, F. Z., Shawon, A. H., Ahmed, R. R., Khan, M. K., & Islam, M. S. (2023). Exploring the economic impact of institutional entrepreneurship, social innovation, and poverty reduction on carbon footprint in BRICS countries: What is the role of social enterprise? Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Springer Nature. (SCIE and Scopus indexed Q1 journal, Impact Factor: 6.18).

Obaid Ullah | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Obaid Ullah | Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D scholar, Lanzhou University China, Pakistan

ObaidUllah is a promising researcher currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at Lanzhou University. His research focuses on significant issues like the impact of greenhouse gases, economic growth, and environmental degradation. He has published several notable papers in respected journals, including Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy and Natural Resources Forum. His work addresses critical global and regional challenges, showcasing his expertise in economic and environmental analysis. ObaidUllah’s multilingual abilities in Pashto, Chinese, English, and Urdu enhance his research scope, allowing him to engage with diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. Proficient in research tools like E-views and STATA, he is well-equipped for data analysis. However, to strengthen his profile, he could benefit from deepening his research focus, gaining more professional experience, increasing his publication output, and pursuing further professional recognition. Overall, he exhibits a solid foundation and potential for significant contributions to his field.

Profile

Education

ObaidUllah’s educational background reflects a strong commitment to economics and research. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at Lanzhou University, China, expected to complete in 2024. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Peshawar, Pakistan, where he graduated in 2013 with a CGPA of 3.3/4. Prior to this, he completed his Higher Secondary School Certificate (FSc Pre-Medical) from BISE Malakand in 2009 with a 60% grade and his Secondary School Certificate (Matric in Science) from the same board in 2007 with a 73.66% grade. This educational foundation has provided him with a solid grounding in economic theories and research methodologies, which he has further developed through his advanced studies and research activities.

Professional Experience

ObaidUllah has a background that reflects a strong foundation in research and practical experience. From September 2016 to 2018, he worked as a Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) professional, where he honed his skills in business communication, data analysis, and problem-solving. This role involved handling complex data and generating insights, which contributed to his analytical capabilities. His current focus is on pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at Lanzhou University, a position that underscores his commitment to advanced research. Although his professional experience is primarily rooted in KPO, his academic journey and research publications highlight his ability to tackle significant economic and environmental issues. This combination of practical experience and academic pursuit equips him with a unique perspective, enriching his contributions to the field of economics and environmental studies.

 Research Interest

ObaidUllah’s research interests are primarily focused on the intersection of environmental and economic issues, with a particular emphasis on the impact of greenhouse gases, energy usage, and globalization on public health. His work explores how green investment and energy intensity influence the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability. He is also interested in examining socio-economic determinants affecting educational outcomes and economic development, especially in developing countries. His research addresses critical topics such as the effects of CO2 emissions and urbanization on health metrics and the role of foreign remittances in educational expenditures. Through his publications, he contributes to understanding the complex dynamics between economic policies, environmental challenges, and social factors, aiming to provide insights that can inform policy-making and improve socio-economic conditions. His multidisciplinary approach integrates economic theory with practical implications for environmental and health-related issues.

Research Skills

ObaidUllah exhibits a robust set of research skills that underpin his contributions to the field of economics and environmental studies. His proficiency in advanced data analysis software such as E-views and STATA is crucial for conducting empirical research and interpreting complex datasets. This technical expertise is complemented by his adeptness in utilizing MS Office for effective data management and presentation. His research encompasses a wide range of topics, including environmental impacts, economic growth, and social issues, demonstrating his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. ObaidUllah’s multilingual capabilities in Pashto, Chinese, English, and Urdu further enhance his research effectiveness, allowing him to access and integrate diverse sources of information and collaborate across different cultural and linguistic contexts. His publications in reputable journals reflect his capacity to contribute valuable insights to the academic community and address pressing global issues.

 Award and Recognition

ObaidUllah has garnered recognition for his impactful contributions to economic and environmental research. His work, published in esteemed journals such as Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy and Natural Resources Forum, demonstrates his expertise in addressing critical issues like greenhouse gas impacts and economic growth. His research on the socio-economic determinants of school dropouts and the effects of foreign remittances highlights his commitment to understanding and solving complex social problems. Although he is still in the early stages of his research career, his efforts have been acknowledged through several well-received publications. Further accolades and professional recognitions could significantly enhance his standing in the research community. His ongoing pursuit of a Ph.D. at Lanzhou University and his active engagement in publishing reflect a promising trajectory toward gaining more substantial awards and recognition in the future.

Conclusion

ObaidUllah demonstrates a strong foundation in economic and environmental research with notable publications and an international academic background. His multilingual skills and proficiency in research tools are assets. However, to enhance his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award, he should focus on deepening his research in specific areas, gaining additional research experience, increasing his publication output, and actively seeking professional recognition and awards. With targeted improvements and continued dedication, he has the potential to further establish himself as a leading researcher in his field.

Publication Top Notes

  • “A comprehensive analysis of the impact of greenhouse gases, energy usage, institutional quality and globalization on health: A case study of selected developing nations”
    • Authors: Aijun Guo, Obaid Ullah, Ali Zeb, Shujaat Hussain, Naeem Ud Din
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of International Development
    • DOI: 10.1002/jid.3940
  • “Disaggregated Public Spending, Income Inequality and its Effect on Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Developing Countries”
    • Authors: Obaid Ullah, Zia Ur Rahman, Aijun Guo, Ali Zeb
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of the Knowledge Economy
    • DOI: 10.1007/s13132-024-01991-0
  • “Unveiling health dynamics: Exploring the impact of CO2 emissions, urbanization, and renewable energy on life expectancy and infant mortality in SAARC countries (1990–2022)”
    • Authors: Aijun Guo, Obaid Ullah, Ali Zeb, Naeem Ud Din, Shujaat Hussain
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Natural Resources Forum
    • DOI: 10.1111/1477-8947.12460
  • “A Comparative Analysis of the Effectiveness of Precautionary and Mercantilist Approaches to Accumulation of Foreign Exchange Reserves in Pakistan”
    • Authors: Asad Karim, Sajid Gul, Ali Zeb, Obaid Ullah
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Argumenta Oeconomica Cracoviensia
    • DOI: 10.15678/aoc.2021.2402
  • “Trade Openness and Economic Growth: Estimating the Inflation Threshold for Pakistan’s Economy”
    • Authors: Tariq Nawab, Ali Zeb, Sajid Gul, Zahid Nawab, Obaid Ullah
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Argumenta Oeconomica Cracoviensia
    • DOI: 10.15678/aoc.2021.2401
  • “Assessment of the Socio-economic determinants of school children dropouts in rural areas of district Peshawar, Pakistan”
    • Authors: Ali Zeb, Sajid Gul, Guo Mingyan, Obaid Ullah
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences International Journal (LASSIJ)
    • DOI: 10.47264/idea.lassij/5.2.17
  • “Impact of foreign remittances on school enrolment and educational expenditures in district Peshawar, Pakistan”
    • Authors: Sajid Gul, Ali Zeb, Obaid Ullah, Guo Mingyan
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences International Journal (LASSIJ)
    • DOI: 10.47264/idea.lassij/5.2.14