Ph.D. Commerce, Aligarh Muslim University, India.
Concentrations: Banking and Finance.
Topic of A Comparative Study of Performance Evaluation of Select Private and Foreign Banks in India.
Thesis Supervisor: Prof. Mohd. Mohsin Khan
Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance (PGDIBF), Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India in 2015 with 78.2% marks and Rank 1st in PGDIBF.
Master of Finance and Control (MFC), Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India in 2014 with 76% marks and Rank 1st in MFC.
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com), Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India in 2012 with 69.5% marks.
Higher Secondary Education, Commerce, Indian School Certificate in 2009 with 83% marks.
Secondary Education, Science, Indian Certificate of Secondary Education in 2007 with 74.75% marks.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Banking, Sustainability, Green Innovation, Panel Tabulation, Time Series Tabulation
56
Scopus Publications
1405
Scholar Citations
24
Scholar h-index
31
Scholar i10-index
Scopus Publications
Blockchain-based data integrity and privacy in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication networks: A systematic literature review Kenneth Baayeh, Prashanth Beleya, Shakeb Akhtar, Diana Airawaty Multidisciplinary Reviews, 2026 Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication is at the center of autonomous mobility, as it enables vehicles to exchange real-time information with infrastructure, other vehicles on the road, including pedestrians, and the network. V2X has the potential to improve navigation, traffic flow, and safety but also brings with it the associated governance risks of data integrity, privacy, and cybersecurity. These risks are amplified by the interconnected nature of V2X networks, which handle sensitive data like vehicle locations and driver identities, necessitating robust security solutions. This systematic review considers blockchain as a remedy, with its decentralized architecture, cryptographic security protocols, and automation through smart contracts. A review of peer-reviewed literature from 2018 to 2025 highlights blockchain's role in tamper-proof communication, privacy preservation through Zero-Knowledge Proofs and Ring Signatures, and secure transaction automation. For instance, blockchain ensures data immutability by distributing trust across nodes, reducing vulnerabilities like data spoofing, while smart contracts streamline processes like toll payments. Challenges such as scalability, latency, and regulation are addressed with proposals such as 5G, edge computing, and governance frameworks. Hybrid blockchain systems, either public or private are examined in this study to obtain a trade-off between scalability and security in V2X networks. In addition, interoperability is proposed to facilitate the seamless exchange of data between V2X systems. Emerging consensus mechanisms like proof of stake and directed acyclic graphs are proposed to enhance scalability, while federated learning integrations bolster privacy. Pilot projects, such as those in Dubai and Singapore, demonstrate blockchain’s practical efficacy in securing V2X ecosystems. The review positions blockchain as a leading enabler of secure, efficient, and privacy-aware intelligent transport systems. Future research should focus on standardizing governance and addressing latency to ensure global adoption.
Examining the Nexus Between Sustainability Performance and Green Revenues: Evidence From Industrial Companies Faozi A. Almaqtari, Shakeb Akhtar, Najib H. S. Farhan, Tarek Chebbi Business Strategy and Development, 2026 This study examines the relationship between sustainability performance, eco‐friendly production, and board characteristics and their impact on the green revenues of industrial firms. Using a panel dataset of 6084 firm‐year observations from multiple countries (2018–2023), the study employs panel data analysis to assess these relationships. A dummy variable approach differentiates firms with green revenues from those without, followed by a segmented analysis of high‐ and low‐performing green firms. The results indicate that sustainability performance positively influences green revenues, while board size and diversity have negative effects. Conversely, board expertise and sustainability compensations enhance green revenues. Interestingly, the findings highlight that high‐performing green firms adopt proactive sustainability strategies, whereas low‐performing firms rely on incentives. The study contributes to the literature by providing evidence from industrial firms across developed and developing countries, offering policy implications for sustainability governance and corporate incentives.
Addressing the Brain Drain Phenomenon in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Analysis of Global Policy Frameworks, Governmental Strategies, and the Integral Role of SMEs in Talent Repatriation and Sustainable Growth Ah Huai n Ah Cha, Prashanth Beleya, Riska Nuraini, Diana Airawaty, Shakeb Akhtar, Wong Siew Fong Journal of Educational and Social Research, 2026 The research explores the problem of brain drain in Malaysia by combining qualitative case studies(successful policies in the world, such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, India) with a survey of Malaysiansoverseas. It studies four major variables, which are government incentives, competitive salaries, qualityof life and recognition and concludes that the variables positively impact the intention to return, butrecognition is found to be the most effective. The research utilizes Maslow hierarchy of needs and thetheory of reasoned action to develop a strong model of psychological and economic reasons to talentrepatriation.This research adopts an exploratory mixed-methods approach, reviewing strategiesemployed by countries that have successfully reversed brain drain and identifying key factors thatencourage Malaysians to return. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA, multiple regression, and Pearsoncorrelation, will be used. The findings suggest that government-backed venture capital initiatives shouldprioritize sectors aligned with Malaysia’s economic goals and provide research grants to privatecompanies and leading universities to support sustainable growth and strengthen Malaysia’s image as anation that values academic and technological progress. Received: 07 August 2025 / Accepted: 11 February 2026 / Published: March 2026
Improving Workplace Health and Safety Through Digital Twins Seema Ghanghas, Neha Arora, Shakeb Akhtar Hr 5 0 Integration Unleashing the Potential of the Digital Twin Revolution, 2026 In recent years, the emergence of digital twins has revolutionized multiple industries and has the potential to fundamentally transform the domain of workplace health and safety (WHS). This chapter closely examines the application of digital twins to WHS practices and considers their potential for risk mitigation, safety protocol enhancement, and positive impact on the wider organizational safety culture. Further, this chapter explores the contemporary challenges of WHS and assesses the current limitations in compliance, safety monitoring, and incident reporting, which often serve as precursors to workplace accidents and injuries. This chapter includes a cost–benefit analysis of implementing digital twins and highlights the long-term value that these can provide in significantly reducing workplace incidents and safety outcomes improvement. For a more practical perspective, this chapter includes case studies of multiple firms that successfully implemented digital twin technology for WHS. It concludes with the current trends of digital twins’ evolution and their future implications for WHS while considering potential challenges and ethical problems that must be addressed. Overall, this chapter asserts that digital twins are a groundbreaking facet of WHS, seriously empowering organizations to improve safety measures, prevent accidents, and ensure a safer work environment for all workers involved. It is expected that digital twins’ evolution will drive their increasing application to WHS in the coming years, which would ensure future developments in the domain of occupational health and safety.
Building Resilient Portfolios: Integrating Climate and Environmental Risks into Portfolio Diversification Strategies in the Modern Era K. Balaji, Shakeb Akhtar, Mahfooz Alam Climate Risk and Emerging Markets Valuation Volatility and Portfolio Strategies, 2026 In the modern era, integrating climate and environmental risks into portfolio diversification is crucial for building resilient investment strategies. This chapter explores strategies for building resilient investment portfolios by integrating climate and environmental risks into portfolio diversification strategies. It aims to provide a comprehensive framework for balancing financial returns with sustainable, long-term environmental goals in the context of the modern investment landscape. The chapter reviews innovative financial instruments, such as green bonds and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies, and examines case studies of successful integration within both developed and emerging markets. The chapter finds that incorporating climate and environmental risks into portfolio strategies not only enhances resilience but also presents new opportunities for sustainable growth. Successful approaches include active engagement with ESG criteria, the use of environmental risk assessments, and the adoption of climate-aware investment products. The chapter faces limitations in the availability of ESG data across markets, which affects the generalization of research outcomes. Future studies need to establish advanced mathematical models for better assessing environmental hazards during portfolio spread assessment. For investors and portfolio managers, the research provides actionable insights into integrating climate and environmental considerations into their strategies. It recommends adopting robust risk management tools, enhancing transparency in ESG reporting, and fostering collaboration with policymakers to create a more climate-resilient financial ecosystem. It is valuable for investors, financial institutions, and policymakers seeking to adapt to the challenges of a rapidly changing climate while ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Digital Twin for Employee Engagement and Satisfaction Seema Ghanghas, Ritu Garg, Poonam, Shakeb Akhtar Hr 5 0 Integration Unleashing the Potential of the Digital Twin Revolution, 2026 In today’s rapidly changing work environment, the introduction of digital employee twins marks an important modification regarding the way we embrace and engage fresh faces to our team. These virtual avatars, backed by artificial intelligence, are poised to change onboarding and training by providing employees with a tailored and engaging learning experience. Their applications are wide-ranging, from onboarding and training to offering assessment of achievement and mentoring. Digital twins (DTs) have emerged as an increasingly vital resource in the age of digital innovation, as the need to adjust to the shifting dynamics of building production grows. Many industries, like production, power generation, transportation, medical treatment, and many more, have shown a great deal of interest in and adoption of DT. As a result of rapid advances in communication and technology, electronic devices have woven themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. The variety and capabilities of these electronic products and services are expanding at an unprecedented pace. Today’s consumers no longer settle for “standard" solutions—they expect every good or service to be tailored to their unique needs. Continuous worker opinion collection is made simpler by DTs, which provide administrators with insightful data on satisfaction with work. Using an environmental approach like this might influence important choices that could have gone unnoticed or unnoticed. Similarly, flexibly reacting to actual-time information can be used to simulate upcoming occurrences (Piras et al., 2024).
Maximizing financial efficiency through technological synergy: Unleashing ICT for enhanced cash management in SMEs Michael Ayikwei Quarshie, Reginald Djimatey, Shakeb Akhtar, Donkor Nawaah Journal of the International Council for Small Business, 2026 This article examines how the adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) tools such as accounting software and financial management systems, as well as electronic payment platforms, affects the relationship between cash management and the financial performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. The research was designed using descriptive survey research and deployed the simple random sampling method to select 200 SMEs in Berekum East Municipality in Ghana. Questionnaires were used for the data collection. The SmartPLS 4 software was used in the data analysis. The results showed that ICTs moderated the relationship between cash management and financial performance of SMEs positively, therefore validating pecking order theory. When SMEs use ICT tools efficiently, they are able to optimize the use of internal funds while, at the same time, reducing liquidity risks, which are accompanied by agency costs when external funds are used.
AI in insurance Syed Hasan Jafar, Shakeb Akhtar, Satirenjit Kaur Johl Artificial Intelligence for Business an Implementation Guide Containing Practical and Industry Specific Case Studies, 2023
FinTech adoption, credit risk, and banking stability: evidence from Indian banks MA Ahsan, FU Rehman, S Akhtar, M Alam, HU Rahman, S Dayal Quality & Quantity, 1-29 , 2026 2026
Examining the Nexus Between Sustainability Performance and Green Revenues: Evidence From Industrial Companies FA Almaqtari, S Akhtar, NHS Farhan, T Chebbi Business Strategy & Development 9 (1), e70313 , 2026 2026
Improving Workplace Health and Safety Through Digital Twins S Ghanghas, N Arora, S Akhtar 2026
Digital Twin for Employee Engagement and Satisfaction S Ghanghas, R Garg, S Akhtar 2026
Introduction Chapter of Climate Risk and Emerging Markets Book A Rahman, S Akhtar, M Alam, M Khan 2026
Building Resilient Portfolios: Integrating Climate and Environmental Risks into Portfolio Diversification Strategies in the Modern Era K Balaji, S Akhtar, M Alam 2026
Climate Risk and Emerging Markets: Valuation, Volatility, and Portfolio Strategies A Rahman, S Akhtar, M Alam, M Khan Emerald Group Publishing , 2026 2026
Bridging the Gap: Making the Financial Services Accessible to the Vulnerable Sections of the Society K Singh, S Akhtar, V Awasthi Regulation and Inclusivity in Finance and Accounting: Navigating Regulatory … , 2026 2026
The Role of Technology in Shaping Modern Regulatory Practices A Kapoor, S Bahl, S Akhtar Regulation and Inclusivity in Finance and Accounting: Navigating Regulatory … , 2026 2026 Citations: 1
Maximizing financial efficiency through technological synergy: Unleashing ICT for enhanced cash management in SMEs MA Quarshie, R Djimatey, S Akhtar, D Nawaah Journal of the International Council for Small Business 7 (1), 66-96 , 2026 2026 Citations: 23
Long-and Short-run Effects of Crude Oil Prices on Stock Price Under Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Evidence from South Africa Z Ansari, S Akhtar, A Ansari, W Rusere, RU Ansari Global Business Review, 09721509261435795 , 2026 2026
Mapping the Landscape: A Bibliometric Analysis of FinTech Innovations in the Banking Industry MA Ahsan, M Salim, PA Khan, S Akhtar Policy Implications on International Financial Economics and Banking, 411-440 , 2026 2026
Managing Financial Distress: The Global Impact of Monetary and Fiscal Policies on Non-Performing Assets F ur Rehman, NA Khan, S Akhtar, B Asghar Policy Implications on International Financial Economics and Banking, 165-192 , 2026 2026
Do credit default swaps (CDS) continue to serve as hedging instruments? A systematic literature review Tabassum, S Akhtar, SN Azmi, M Azhar, N Laskar Cogent Economics & Finance 13 (1), 2559057 , 2025 2025
Driving efficiency through innovation: exploring dynamic capabilities in Indian manufacturing small and medium scale enterprise M Rahman P, S Akhtar, S Babar Khan, M Khan, M M, M Afjal Cogent Business & Management 12 (1), 2485402 , 2025 2025 Citations: 4
Optimistic and pessimistic biases on intention to use open banking: the effects of mating cues W Junior Ladeira, S Hasan Jafar, S Akhtar, F de Oliveira Santini, ... International Journal of Bank Marketing, 1-18 , 2025 2025
Policy Implications on International Financial Economics and Banking S Akhtar, M Khan, FAG Almaqtari, V Selvam, S Bahl IGI Global , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
Choices of Virtue and Vice Products and Their Impact on Visual Attention: A Meta‐Analysis of Eye‐Tracking Food Research WJ Ladeira, WM Lim, MG Perin, F de Oliveira Santini, T Rasul, D Gursoy, ... Journal of Consumer Behaviour 24 (6), 2970-2991 , 2025 2025
Consumer Behaviour in the Metaverse: Empirical Insights From a Meta‐Analysis WJ Ladeira, F de Oliveira Santini, WM Lim, T Rasul, T Oliveira, S Akhtar Journal of Consumer Behaviour 24 (6), 2845-2871 , 2025 2025 Citations: 4
Eye movements in binary food choice context: assessing the complexity of restaurant menus on virtue vs. vice foods WJ Ladeira, MS Balaji, T Rasul, FO Santini, R Zanoni, J Ruffatto, S Akhtar Tourism Recreation Research 50 (6), 1514-1528 , 2025 2025 Citations: 5
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Vinculum of sustainable development goal practices and firms’ financial performance: A moderation role of green innovation PA Khan, SK Johl, S Akhtar Journal of Risk and Financial Management 15 (3), 96 , 2022 2022 Citations: 159
Firm sustainable development goals and firm financial performance through the lens of green innovation practices and reporting: a proactive approach PA Khan, SK Johl, S Akhtar Journal of Risk and Financial Management 14 (12), 605 , 2021 2021 Citations: 153
Open innovation of institutional investors and higher education system in creating open approach for SDG-4 quality education: a conceptual review PA Khan, SK Johl, S Akhtar, M Asif, AA Salameh, T Kanesan Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity 8 (1), 49 , 2022 2022 Citations: 131
Embedding sustainability into bank strategy: Implications for sustainable development goals reporting AA Jan, FW Lai, M Asif, S Akhtar, S Ullah International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology 30 (3), 229-243 , 2023 2023 Citations: 116
Measuring the performance of the Indian banking industry: data envelopment window analysis approach S Akhtar, M Alam, MS Ansari Benchmarking: An International Journal 29 (9), 2842-2857 , 2022 2022 Citations: 55
Measuring technical efficiency of banks vis-à-vis demonetization: an empirical analysis of Indian banking sector using CAMELS framework S Akhtar, M Alam, A Khan, M Shamshad Quality & Quantity 57 (2), 1739-1761 , 2023 2023 Citations: 52
Introduction to green finance and technology integration M Alam, S Akhtar Harnessing blockchain-digital twin fusion for sustainable investments, 1-19 , 2024 2024 Citations: 42
Forecasting of NIFTY 50 index price by using backward elimination with an LSTM model SH Jafar, S Akhtar, H El-Chaarani, PA Khan, R Binsaddig Journal of Risk and Financial Management 16 (10), 423 , 2023 2023 Citations: 41
Introduction to fintech in industry 5.0: Companion or antagonist M Alam, S Akhtar, A Bettencourt The adoption of fintech, 1-16 , 2024 2024 Citations: 39
YES bank fiasco: arrogance or negligence S Akhtar, M Alam, MM Khan Emerging Economies Cases Journal 3 (2), 95-102 , 2021 2021 Citations: 39
AI in Insurance SH Jafar, S Akhtar, SK Johl Artificial Intelligence for Business, 164-173 , 2023 2023 Citations: 38
Big data analytics and the use of artificial intelligence in the services industry: a meta-analysis WJ Ladeira, FO Santini, T Rasul, I Cheah, S Elhajjar, N Yasin, S Akhtar The Service Industries Journal 44 (15-16), 1117-1144 , 2024 2024 Citations: 35
Disrupting financial services: A case study on Capital One's fintech odyssey N Naseema, S Akhtar, AA Al Hinai Harnessing blockchain-digital twin fusion for sustainable investments, 363-383 , 2024 2024 Citations: 35
Cascading Effect of COVID 19 on Indian Economy S Akhtar, MNH Niazi, MM Khan International Journal of Advanced Science and Technology 29 (9), 4563-4573 , 2020 2020 Citations: 35
Unveiling the financial landscape: analyzing profitability, productivity, and efficiency of banks in an emerging economy using the CAMELS framework and panel analysis S Akhtar, SN Azmi, PA Khan, AA Jan, Z Ansari Cogent Business & Management 11 (1), 2399747 , 2024 2024 Citations: 33
Impact of Digitalisation on Bank Performance: A Study of Indian Banks SN Azmi, S Akhtar, MR Nadeem Test Engineering and Management 83, 23678 – 23691 , 2020 2020 Citations: 32
Interactions of services export, financial development and growth: evidence from India SN Azmi, S Akhtar Quality & Quantity 57 (5), 4709-4724 , 2023 2023 Citations: 29
Barriers to breakthroughs: The crucial role of support services in advancing accounting practices, financial literacy and performance in disability-led SMEs MA Quarshie, S Akhtar, D Nawaah Quality & Quantity 59 (Suppl 2), 955-977 , 2025 2025 Citations: 28
Do Indian banks perform better in corporate governance than other SAARC nations? An empirical analysis M Alam, S Akhtar, MAS Al-Faryan Corporate Governance: The International Journal of Business in Society 24 (4 … , 2024 2024 Citations: 27
Impact of corporate social responsibility on financial performance of selected banks in india: based on camel model K Chaturvedi, S Akhtar, N Azhar, M Shamshad Studies in Economics and Business Relations 2 (2) , 2021 2021 Citations: 27
