Supply chain finance and profitability of SMEs in China: The moderating and mediating effect of finance constraint and the moderating effect of risk management
List of Authors
  • Badrul Hisham Kamaruddin , Jiao Zhe

Keyword
  • Supply Chain Finance, SME Profitability, Financial Constraints, Risk Management, Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract
  • This study investigates the influence of SCF on the profitability of SMEs in China, considering the mediating role of financial constraints and the moderating effects of financial constraints and risk management. Through a comprehensive analysis of 86 SMEs, employing multiple regression models and SEM, the research establishes a significant positive relationship between SCF utilization and SME profitability, as measured by ROA. The findings reveal that financial constraints mediate this relationship, suggesting that SCF alleviates financial pressures, thereby enhancing profitability. Additionally, the study demonstrates that both the degree of financial constraints and the capability for risk management exert moderating effects on the SCF-ROA link, indicating that the benefits of SCF are more pronounced under greater financial challenges and with stronger risk management practices. The constructed SEM model validates all hypotheses, illustrating that SCF positively impacts profitability through direct effects and by reducing financial constraints. The model fit indices confirm the high level of model fit, supporting the theoretical and practical implications of the study. The research contributes to the literature by enriching theories related to supply chain finance, SME development, financial constraints, and risk management. It also provides actionable insights for Chinese SMEs in optimizing financing strategies and risk management, and offers a basis for policymakers to improve support policies. The study acknowledges limitations in sample size and scope, suggesting avenues for future research to expand the sample and explore non-financial factors affecting the effectiveness of SCF.

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