Aims & Scope

Economic and Financial Research Letters (EFRL) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal dedicated to publishing high-quality research that addresses pressing issues in the fields of economics and finance. The journal aims to provide a platform for both established and emerging scholars to present novel, concise, and impactful research that advances the understanding of contemporary economic and financial challenges. Through the dissemination of insightful studies, EFRL seeks to contribute to the development of both theoretical and practical knowledge, shaping the future direction of policy, markets, and academic inquiry.

Scope

EFRL is committed to publishing cutting-edge research on a wide array of topics within the domains of economics and finance. The journal welcomes manuscripts from a variety of perspectives, including but not limited to theoretical, empirical, methodological, and policy-oriented studies. It is particularly interested in studies that provide new insights, innovative solutions, or novel applications to real-world issues faced by economies, industries, and financial markets.

The primary areas of focus for EFRL include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Macroeconomics and Microeconomics
  Research exploring the key drivers of macroeconomic stability, growth, and development, as well as microeconomic behavior, decision-making, and market efficiency. Topics include monetary policy, fiscal policy, economic growth, income inequality, labor markets, and global trade.
• Financial Markets and Institutions
  Studies addressing the dynamics of financial markets, the role of financial intermediaries, and the behavior of market participants. This includes research on market microstructure, asset pricing, risk management, banking systems, investment strategies, and the regulation of financial markets.
• Corporate Finance and Governance
  Research on corporate financial strategies, capital structure, mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and shareholder activism. Manuscripts that examine how financial decisions influence firm performance, innovation, and sustainability are of particular interest.
• Behavioral Economics and Finance
  Research that investigates the psychological and emotional factors influencing economic decision-making and financial behavior. Topics include investor psychology, consumer behavior, decision theory, and the application of behavioral insights to economic and financial policy.
• Financial Technology (FinTech) and Innovation
  Studies focusing on the intersection of finance and technology, including the impact of FinTech innovations such as blockchain, digital currencies, peer-to-peer lending, and robo-advisors. Research on the regulation, risks, and opportunities created by these technological advancements is also welcomed.
• Risk Management and Financial Stability
  Research examining the identification, measurement, and management of financial risks at the individual, firm, and system-wide levels. Topics of interest include systemic risk, financial crises, banking risk, credit risk, and insurance.
• International Economics and Finance
  Studies on the global economic system, international trade, investment flows, exchange rates, and the role of multinational corporations in shaping global economic dynamics. Research examining the effects of globalization on financial markets and economies is highly encouraged.
• Economic Development and Policy
  Research that focuses on economic growth, poverty reduction, and the role of policy in shaping the development of economies, particularly in emerging and developing markets. This includes studies on the role of foreign direct investment (FDI), economic integration, trade policy, and the impact of economic reforms.
• Environmental and Sustainable Finance
  Research on the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into economic and financial decision-making. This includes studies on sustainable investing, green finance, climate risk, and the role of finance in addressing global environmental challenges.
• Public Policy and Regulation
  Research addressing the role of government policy in shaping economic outcomes, including fiscal and monetary policy, financial regulation, taxation, and the impact of government interventions on markets and firms. Papers on the economic and financial implications of public policy decisions are of particular interest.

Types of Articles

EFRL publishes a range of article types, including:

• Research Articles: Original, unpublished research that contributes new knowledge or perspectives to the field. These articles should present clear research questions, rigorous analysis, and well-supported conclusions.
• Letters: Shorter communications that highlight key findings or emerging trends in economics and finance. These letters provide concise and impactful insights into ongoing research or recent developments.
• Review Articles: Comprehensive surveys of the state-of-the-art in a specific area of economics or finance, summarizing key trends, findings, and methodologies. Review articles should synthesize existing literature and suggest future directions for research.
• Policy Briefs: Articles that address practical policy implications of research findings. These articles are intended to inform policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders about the economic and financial challenges of the day, offering evidence-based recommendations for action.

Aims

The primary aim of Economic and Financial Research Letters is to advance knowledge and understanding in the fields of economics and finance by providing a platform for timely, high-quality research. Specifically, the journal aims to:

1. Publish Concise, High-Impact Research
   EFRL focuses on the publication of concise research that has a significant impact on the field of economics and finance. The journal prioritizes studies that offer innovative solutions to real-world problems, contribute to theoretical advancements, and enhance practical knowledge.
2. Promote Interdisciplinary Dialogue
   The journal encourages interdisciplinary research that bridges the gap between economics, finance, and other related fields such as law, political science, sociology, and environmental studies. This broad approach ensures that research published in EFRL resonates with a diverse range of scholars, policymakers, and practitioners.
3. Foster Policy-Relevant Research
   EFRL seeks to publish research that not only contributes to academic theory but also has clear implications for public policy, financial regulation, and business practice. By providing evidence-based insights, the journal aims to support the development of more effective economic and financial policies worldwide.
4. Encourage Innovation in Financial and Economic Thought
   The journal aims to be a platform for new and emerging ideas in economics and finance. It welcomes research that challenges conventional wisdom, proposes novel methodologies, or explores new paradigms in financial theory and practice.
5. Facilitate International Collaboration
   EFRL is committed to fostering global collaboration by publishing research from authors worldwide, especially from underrepresented regions. The journal values diverse perspectives that contribute to a fuller understanding of global economic and financial issues.