Navigating Economic Transformations: Accounting for Paradigm Shifts in Post Covid-19 in Listed Companies in NSE, Kenya

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally reshaped the global economic landscape, forcing businesses to adapt to unprecedented challenges. This study examines the paradigm shifts witnessed among companies listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in Kenya. By drawing on reputable sources like the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), the research explores the prevalence of digital transformation initiatives, the adoption of remote work policies, the assessment of financial resilience strategies employed by these companies and the adaptive strategies for resilience and growth. The findings reveal a significant push towards digitalization, with 76% of NSE-listed companies actively pursuing digital transformation initiatives. The shift to remote work was also widespread, with 68% of firms implementing formal remote work policies. However, challenges such as skill gaps, cybersecurity risks, and maintaining productivity in remote settings were identified. The analysis of financial resilience highlights the varying impact on different sectors, with some experiencing declines in revenue, profitability, and liquidity ratios. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for further research into sector-specific transformations and the long-term effects of the pandemic on NSE-listed companies