The use of multiple media kiosks (MMKs) is witnessing an increasingly strong uptrend in 24-h chain convenient stores in developed countries. However, as the functions of MMKs intensifies and increases, how to retain consumers has been a topic that raises concerns of managers and researchers. In this study, we adopt the integrated technology acceptance model, which combines technology readiness and acceptance model with interactivity that serves as the moderating factor, with the purpose of discussing the relationships among all these variables and their impacts on behavior intention to use. Through the cross-sectional survey and purposive sampling, a total of 623 copies of questionnaire from Taiwan were collected in this study. Smart-PLS for PLS-SEM was applied in the structural model to conduct a verification of the hypotheses and comparative analysis in this study. The results show that all hypotheses were significantly supported; technology readiness has a positive impact on perceived ease to use and perceived usefulness; and interactivity also positively moderates the relationship among perceived ease to use, perceived usefulness and attitude toward using. Our results will offer more insights and advice concerning theories of service technology.

Sitting in the middle of the Indian Ocean and major international maritime routes, Sri Lanka’s strategic geographic location has brought both opportunities and complications to its economic development. In view of the mixed outcome and perceptions of the Chinese investment projects in Sri Lanka, this paper investigates the nuances of both successful and failed experiences in Chinese investment, and the management approach the Chinese project managers have sought to adapt to improve their community engagements and secure public support. While these efforts have not, largely, been effective, we also find little evidence that China has conspired to dominate Sri Lanka. By refuting the sweeping debt-trap argument, we further seek to reflect upon Hong Kong’s possible role in addressing the critical managerial and capacity issues in Sri Lankan investment.

The Centre for Chinese and Comparative Law and Asian Business Law Institute jointly organised an academic roundtable entitled ‘Insolvency Law and Policy in Times of COVID-19 and Beyond’ on 29 March 2022. The event brought together judges, scholars, experts and professionals from world-leading universities and institutions. This note sets out a summary of the proceedings held at the academic roundtable.