Studi Akuntansi, Keuangan, dan Manajemen

SINTA 3 | Studi Akuntansi, Keuangan, dan Manajemen (Sakman) is a peer-reviewed journal in the fields of Accounting, Finance and Management. Sakman publishes relevant manuscripts reviewed by some qualified editors. This journal is expected to be a significant platform for researchers in Indonesia to contribute to the theoretical and practical development in all aspects of Accounting, Finance and Management.

SINTA 3 | Studi Akuntansi, Keuangan, dan Manajemen (Sakman) is a peer-reviewed journal in the fields of Accounting, Finance and Management. Sakman publishes relevant manuscripts reviewed by some qualified editors. This journal is expected to be a significant platform for researchers in Indonesia to contribute to the theoretical and practical development in all aspects of Accounting, Finance and Management.

Published
2025-07-16

Articles

Sales Forecasting with Exponential Smoothing for Webrooming–Showrooming Strategy at Yumna Batik

Purpose: This study explores the effectiveness of webrooming and showrooming as marketing strategies in increasing sales, revenue, and customer satisfaction at Yumna Butik in Makassar. It aims to forecast sales trends and analyze consumer shopping behaviors using sales forecasting methods Methodology/approach: A quantitative exploratory approach was employed, utilizing secondary data on sales through webrooming and showrooming. The research applied the Single Exponential Smoothing (SES) method to forecast sales and identify shopping patterns. Interviews with sales representatives and analysis of sales transaction records were conducted to understand consumer behavior and spending trends. Results/findings: The findings reveal a significant monthly increase in sales volume, influenced by strategic store locations, competitive pricing, and high-quality customer service. Among the products analyzed, hijabs were identified as the highest-selling item. The majority of customers preferred webrooming over showrooming, emphasizing the practicality of online searches followed by in-store purchases. Conclusion: The study concludes that webrooming is more effective than showrooming in driving customer purchases at Yumna Butik. Implementing both strategies, supported by accurate sales forecasting, enables better business planning, customer engagement, and revenue growth. Limitations: This study focuses on a single business and specific products, which may limit generalizability. Future research could incorporate advanced software such as RShiny for more detailed and dynamic sales forecasts. Contribution: This study demonstrates the relevance of integrating webrooming and showrooming strategies to enhance sales and customer satisfaction. It also highlights the utility of SES in predicting sales trends and improving inventory management, offering actionable insights for fashion retailers.

Determinan Employee Engagement: Pengembangan Karir, Kompensasi, dan Lingkungan Kerja

Purpose: This study examines the impact of career development, compensation, and work environment on honorary employees’ engagement at the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) of Banten Province. Methodology/approach: Using a quantitative method, 58 respondents were selected from a population of 140 honorary employees through Slovin's formula with a 10% margin of error. Data were collected via an online survey and analyzed using PLS-SEM with SmartPLS 4. The analysis included both reflective (validity and reliability tests) and formative model assessments (multicollinearity and weight significance tests), followed by hypothesis testing using inner model evaluation. Results/findings: The bootstrapping results show that career development, compensation, and work environment each have a significant and positive effect on employee engagement. Conclusion: Structured career development fosters emotional commitment, fair compensation builds loyalty, and a supportive work environment enhances employee engagement. Institutions are encouraged to improve these aspects, along with promoting inclusive culture and effective communication. Limitations: Future studies should consider additional or mediating variables and involve larger samples for broader insights. Contribution: This study contributes to public sector HRM by identifying key drivers of engagement among honorary employees.

Kualitas Konten sebagai Moderator Pengaruh Media Instagram dan Brand Ambassador Skintific

Purpose: This study aims to examine the role of content quality as a moderation variable in social media variables and brand ambassadors to Skintific product brand awareness. Methodology/approach: This study uses a quantitative approach with a causal research design. The sampling technique uses purposive sampling with a sample of 100 people. Data were collected via a Google Form questionnaire and analyzed using SmartPLS version 3.3. Results/findings: The results of the study are as follows: social media variables affect brand awareness of Skintific products, brand ambassadors influence brand awareness of Skintific products, content quality is able to strengthen the influence of social media on brand awareness of Skintific products and content quality is able to strengthen the influence of brand ambassadors on brand awareness of Skintific products. Conclusion: Content quality significantly strengthens the impact of social media and brand ambassadors on brand awareness, maximizing the effectiveness of digital marketing on consumer perceptions. Limitations: This research also has limitations in the coverage of the area focused on the city of Bandar Lampung; therefore, future similar research can expand the scope of the research area to obtain better results. Contribution: Companies pay more attention and strive to maintain and increase brand awareness or consumer brand awareness of products so that consumers make the brand their first choice when they want to buy products.

Pengaruh Digital Marketing dan Daya Tarik terhadap Keputusan Berkunjung (Wisata Paralayang Matantimali)

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of digital marketing and attractiveness on visiting decisions (Paragliding tourism in Matantimali Sigi district). Methodology/approach: This study evaluates the hypothesis and gathers quantitative questionnaire data from respondents for inclusion in the quantitative method. It relies on primary data obtained from questionnaires administered to guests at Matantimali paragliding in Sigi Regency. The sample size consisted of 90 respondents. This study used multiple linear regression analysis for data analysis. Results/findings: The research findings show that digital marketing and attractiveness significant impact on encouraging tourists' decisions to visit Paragliding Matantimali, Sigi Regency. Conclusions: Digital marketing and tourist attractions have a significant influence on tourists' decisions to visit Matantimali paragliding, Sigi Regency. Optimizing these two factors can increase tourist visits. Limitations: This research focuses exclusively on Matantimali paragliding tourism in Sigi Regency; it is suggested that further research expand the number of samples and add other variables such as facilities, accessibility, and price for more comprehensive analysis Contribution: The findings of this research are expected to be a strategic basis for Matantimali Paragliding managers in optimizing digital marketing, increasing attractiveness, and designing more effective promotions. Therefore, it is intended to provide a more competitive tourism experience.

The Effect of Fiscal Decentralization on the Performance of Regional Apparatus Organizations

Purpose: This study investigates the extent to which clearer and more structured fiscal decentralization regulations can reduce overlapping functions between government agencies, enhance the clarity of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and ultimately improve budget accountability at the regional level. In particular, the study assesses the influence of these regulatory improvements on the performance of Regional Apparatus Organizations (Organisasi Perangkat Daerah/OPD) and their institutional readiness to adapt to evolving decentralization policies and governance standards. Methodology/approach: This research adopts a literature review method, analyzing 15 previous research articles from Google Scholar and ResearchGate. The selected studies evaluate the performance of OPDs in Indonesia during the publication period from 2014 to 2024. Results/findings: Fiscal decentralization involves fund distribution and delegated authority to regions. Effective decentralization not only distributes power but also improves service quality and public participation. Evaluations should prioritize these aspects. Conlusion: Clear decentralization policies improve OPD performance and accountability but face challenges like regional disparities and limited capacity. Strengthening institutional readiness and coordination is essential. Limitations: Future research should examine specific impacts of decentralization on OPD performance and compare regions to identify influencing factors. Contribution: This study highlights trends, innovations, and challenges in fiscal decentralization, offering insights for policy reform and institutional development.

Pengaruh Kualitas Sistem, Layanan, Pemasaran Relasional terhadap Loyalitas melalui Kepuasan Pengguna

Purpose: This study analyzes how system quality, service quality, and relational marketing influence user satisfaction and loyalty in using the BSB Mobile app at Bank Sumsel Babel Syariah Palembang. Methodology/approach: A quantitative study with 266 purposively selected BSB Mobile users was analyzed using PLS-SEM via SmartPLS, with data collected through an online survey and demographics analyzed using SPSS. Results/findings: System quality, service quality, and relational marketing positively impact user satisfaction, which in turn strengthens user loyalty to the BSB Mobile app. User satisfaction acts as a key mediator, highlighting the importance of reliable systems, quality service, and strong customer relationships in mobile banking loyalty. Conclusion: The study confirms that improving system quality, service quality, and relational marketing enhances user satisfaction, which subsequently fosters user loyalty to BSB Mobile. These variables interact synergistically in shaping positive user experiences. Limitations: This study is only focus on system quality, service quality and relationship marketing on user loyalty with user satisfaction as intervening variable at Bank Sumsel Babel Syariah Palembang Branch. Contribution: The study provides empirical insights into how banks can strategically improve mobile banking performance by focusing on system reliability, service excellence, and relational engagement to strengthen customer loyalty.

Pengaruh Kualitas Layanan dan Citra Merek dalam Meningkatkan Kepuasan Tamu Hotel Santika

Purpose: This research aims to determine the effect of service quality and brand image on increasing guest satisfaction at Hotel Santika Palu. Methodology: The population in this study were visitors who stayed at the Hotel Santika Palu, the sampling technique was nonprobability sampling using Purposive sampling, the final sample was 90 respondents. This study used a quantitative approach method. Multiple linear regression analysis test was used in this study using the spss application version 24.0 Results: These results indicate that service quality and brand image have a positive and significant effect on increasing customer satisfaction, service quality has a positive and significant effect on increasing customer satisfaction and brand image has a positive and significant effect on increasing customer satisfaction. Thus, increasing both variables has the potential to strengthen guest satisfaction and increase their chances of returning to stay at Hotel Santika Palu in the future. Conclusion: The study concludes that service quality and brand image are critical factors in improving guest satisfaction. Strengthening these elements can enhance guest experiences and loyalty, which is essential for maintaining competitive advantage in the hospitality industry. Limitations: The limitation of this research is that it was only conducted at one hotel, namely Hotel Santika Palu, so the results cannot be generalized to other hotels with different characteristics or in different locations. Contribution: This research has implications for the importance of improving service quality and strengthening brand image as the main strategy in efforts to increase guest satisfaction.

The Role of ESG in Moderating Corporate Tax Avoidance and Firm Value

Purpose: This study intends to examine how tax avoidance correlates with firm value, considering ESG factors as variables that influence the relationship. Methodology/approach: This study uses Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) Regression based on a sample of 47 companies traded on the IDX covering 2018 to 2023, by starting the analysis in 2017. The sampling method used is purposive sampling. To measure tax avoidance, this study uses CETR (Cash Effective Tax Rate), GETR (GAAP Effective Tax Rate), and BTD (Book-Tax Difference), while the evaluation of firm value is done through Tobin's Q. ESG rating is used to assess ESG performance. Results/findings: Tax avoidance with CETR has no significant effect on firm value, while GETR has a significant negative impact. In contrast, BTD shows a positive correlation. ESG as a moderator has no significant effect on CETR and BTD, but strengthens the negative impact of GETR on firm value. Conclusions: The impact of tax avoidance on firm value depends on the measurement method. ESG does not consistently weaken the relationship between tax avoidance and firm value. Limitations: The limitations of this study include research methods that do not fully address the statistical problems of autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity. Contribution: This study adds insight into the role of ESG in the relationship between tax avoidance and firm value. The results can serve as a guide for managers, investors, and regulators in evaluating tax strategies, sustainability, and firm valuation.

System of Compensation and Variance of Cage Crews (ABK) Income in UD

Purpose: This study aims to provide empirical evidence of the compensation system and income variance for Cage Crews (ABK) at UD. Turiolo before and after transitioning from an open to a closed house system, along with assessing the resulting income increases. Methodology/approach: This research adopts a quantitative descriptive approach, utilizing a paired sample t-test for data analysis. Data collection involved interviews with business owners and four crew members and documentation of compensation records across maintenance cycles. Results/findings: The findings revealed a significant increase in ABK income after the implementation of the closed house system. The performance-based compensation system is directly correlated with higher income levels achieved through improved operational efficiency. Conclusion: The MSME performance of social media in TOS Lubuklinggau showed a 45.3% sales increase, especially in culinary and fashion products. This study reveals the potential of digital marketing and the need for wider adoption and stakeholder support. Limitations: The study focused solely on one broiler chicken farm in Gowa Regency, limiting the generalizability of the findings to other farms or regions. Future studies should include a broader sample across different farming systems and geographical areas. Contribution: This research highlights the critical role of compensation systems in improving worker income within the poultry farming industry and provides evidence of the economic benefits of adopting modern cage systems, such as the closed house model.

Trend Pemanfaatan Media Sosial sebagai Upaya Pengembangan UMKM di Taman Olahraga Silampari

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the trend of social media utilization as a strategic effort to develop Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Silampari Sports Park (TOS) in Lubuklinggau City. Methodology/approach: This study used a descriptive qualitative approach with 80 MSME samples from the TOS area. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and questionnaires to explore the use of social media, marketing strategies, and economic impact. Results/findings: The results indicate that 67.5% of MSMEs use social media for digital marketing, mainly Instagram (42%), Facebook (35%), and TikTok (22%). Social media marketing led to an average sales increase of 45.3%, particularly in the culinary and fashion sectors. Conclusion: Social media boosts MSME performance in TOS Lubuklinggau with a 45.3% sales increase, especially in culinary and fashion. This study reveals the potential of digital marketing and the need for wider adoption and stakeholder support. Limitations: This study is limited by its specific sample, potential qualitative bias, and focus on MSMEs that already use social media. Contribution: This study offers a model and practical recommendations to support MSME digital marketing and accelerate local business digital transformation.

Analisis Tingkat Kepercayaan Masyarakat: Kualitas Personal dan Relasional Perangkat Desa dalam Pengelolaan Dana

Purpose: This study aims to analyse the level of public trust in village officials in the management of village funds, focusing on personal and relational aspects. Methodology/ Approach: The research uses a quantitative method with a population of all residents of Village X aged 17 years and above, and a sample of 112 people selected through random sampling. Data were collected using a trust scale that had been tested for validity and reliability. Results: The regression analysis results show that benevolence (? = 0,401) and competence (? = 0,335) from the personal quality aspect have a significant effect on trust, contributing 42.5%. However, integrity did not show a significant effect. From the relational quality aspect, only closeness was significant (p<0.05), while support and reciprocity had no effect. Limitations: This study has limitations in developing the concepts of integrity, support, and reciprocity effectively, and has not yet comprehensively explored other factors such as transparency and accountability. The generalization of the study's results is also limited due to the sample size, which is not large enough or representative. Contribution: This study concludes that the personal and relational qualities of village officials play an important role in building public trust, but the integrity and support of village officials need improvement for more transparent and accountable village fund management.

Harga, Merek dan Kualitas Motor Bekas Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Showroom Jawa Motor

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the influence of price, brand, and product quality on consumer purchasing decisions at the Jawa Motor Showroom in Palu City.. Methodology/approach: Using a quantitative approach, data were collected through a questionnaire involving 120 respondents who had purchased used motorcycles at a showroom. The testing in this study used multiple linear regression analysis using the SPSS application. Results/findings: The study found that price, brand image, and product quality significantly influenced consumer purchasing decisions. Competitive pricing attracts cost-conscious buyers, a strong brand enhances trust and perceived value, and high product quality assures satisfaction. Together, these factors explain 86.4% of the variance in consumer decisions, highlighting their dominant role in shaping purchasing behaviors. Conclusions: Businesses that offer competitive pricing, maintain a strong brand reputation, and ensure product quality are more likely to influence consumer purchase decisions. Limitations: The study was limited to one used motorcycle showroom, namely the Jawa Motor Showroom in Palu City; therefore, the results cannot be generalized to other used motorcycle showrooms in Palu City. Contribution: This study contributes to the development of effective marketing strategies for business actors in the field of used motorcycle sales.

Penelitian dan Akuntabilitas Keuangannya

Purpose: The case of manipulation in preparing financial reports in research carried out by university lecturers is a serious problem. This study aims to investigate the causes of lecturers having lack of accountability in their research financial reporting Methodology/approach: The systematic review method is used to conceptually explore why lecturers commit dishonest actions in financial reporting. The articles analyzed were 48 national and international journal articles from the Sinta and Google Scholar databases. Results/findings: The results show that fraud is influenced by information asymmetry, weak monitoring, and workload pressure from tridarma and publication demands. Universities should simplify reporting and enhance monitoring, while lecturers need work-life balance to reduce stress and improve accountability. Conclusion : Lecturers’ financial reporting issues stem from asymmetry, poor monitoring, and pressure. Improving oversight and work-life balance can enhance accountability. Limitations: : This study is limited to a literature review without primary data, so it cannot directly assess lecturers' understanding of financial accountability. Future research should use surveys or interviews. Contribution: This study confirms agency theory by highlighting information asymmetry and weak monitoring in universities. It provides a policy basis to enhance lecturer accountability, reduce fraud, and promote financial accountability and work-life balance.

Sewindu Pemetaan Bibliometrik Penelitian Teori Fraud Pentagon pada Financial Statement

Purpose: This study aims to conduct a bibliometric mapping of Google Scholar-indexed literature over the last eight years (2016–2024) related to the fraud pentagon theory and its application in analyzing fraudulent financial statements in Indonesia. Methodology/approach: This research employs a quantitative approach using a literature study design. Data were obtained using the Publish or Perish software, resulting in 347 relevant articles. These were further analyzed using the VOSviewer tool to visualize trends, clusters, and keyword frequencies in the existing literature. Results/findings: The findings indicate a significant growth in the number of publications on fraud pentagon theory, particularly in 2021 (65 articles) and 2022 (72 articles). Network visualization using VOSviewer shows five primary research clusters. Frequently used keywords include “Pentagon,” “Financial Statements,” and “Indonesia Stock Exchange,” reflecting mainstream research interests. In contrast, emerging topics such as “F-Score Model” and “Determinants” appear less frequently, highlighting research gaps. Influential factors commonly discussed include pressure, financial stability, and internal business conditions as key triggers of financial statement fraud. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis confirms the central role of fraud pentagon theory in the Indonesian academic discourse on financial fraud. It also identifies underexplored areas that deserve more attention from future researchers, particularly quantitative indicators like the F-Score Model. Limitations: The study is limited to 347 articles deemed relevant from an initial pool of 450; 103 were excluded due to being non-academic (e.g., theses, reviews). Contribution: This research highlights gaps and future directions for forensic accounting studies, encouraging deeper exploration into predictive fraud detection models and underrepresented variables.

Authentic Culinary Business for Sustainable Tourism: Strategy, Experience, Motivation and Value

Purpose: This study analyzes the City Government’s strategy in developing culinary businesses to support sustainable tourism in Magelang (Central Java) and Depok (West Java), focusing on the role of natural resources, social dynamics, and cultural heritage. Methodology/approach: Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through unstructured interviews with 10 key informants from 2023 to 2024. The study examines government strategies and stakeholder involvement in preserving local identity and engaging tourists. Results/findings: Culinary business development emphasizes preserving cultural identity, providing training, and encouraging participation through exhibitions, cooking classes, and workshops. Storytelling and social media campaigns promote engagement. Sustainability is supported through legal protections, consistent promotion, and participation in festivals. Public education fosters cultural pride. The government integrates sustainable tourism principles by balancing economic, environmental, and social goals through collaboration with stakeholders. Concllusion: A strategic, culturally grounded, and collaborative approach is vital to developing sustainable culinary businesses and enhancing tourism appeal. Limitations: The study focuses on policymakers and business actors, excluding cultural stakeholders whose perspectives may offer additional insights. Contribution: The findings inform policy development to support culinary sustainability, encourage government-industry collaboration, and promote culture-driven culinary marketing for inclusive economic growth.

Peran Kepuasan Kerja dalam Relasi Work-Life Balance dan Turnover Intention

Purpose: This study aimed to find the influence of with Job Satisfaction (JS) as the mediator of Work Life Balance (WLB) on Turnover Intention (TI) in Batam. Methodology/approach: This research utilized quantitive approach, likert scale for measuring the questionnaire via purposive sampling. Utilizing data gathered from Batam statisctic center, It was known that Batam has 589.402 active manpower in 2024 gathered as the population of this research. By implementing Slovin formula, the researcher concluded with 400 samples whom filled 13 questions using google form regarding the measured variabels which were processed by using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method in SmartPLS 3 statistical software program. Results/findings: The results indicate that Work Life Balance has insignificant effect on Turnover Intention, while Job Satiscation has a significant effect on Turnover Intention, and Job Satisfaction as a moderator variable succesfully strengthens the influence of Work Life Balance over Turnover Intention. Conclusions: Based on the result, Work Life Balance does not affect Turnover Intention as people might not perceive it as a problem. However, the former does affect Job Satisfaction which in return affecting Turnover Intention. Job Satisfation might be a core value for balancing the Turnover Intention. Limitations: This research is limited by a few factors such as the limited sample solely from one region and sector generalization. Contribution: In conclusion, this research contributes to the need of enriching a company management based on human values by providing a valuable manpower insights particularly in Batam.

Influence of Scarcity Marketing and Perceived Value on Buying Decision Moderated by Collaboration

Purpose: This study aims to examine the influence of scarcity marketing and customer perceived value on purchasing decisions, with brand collaboration—specifically with the Aerostreet shoe brand—acting as a moderating variable. As consumer behavior continues to evolve in the digital era, understanding the psychological triggers that drive purchasing decisions becomes essential for marketers. This study focuses on how limited availability (scarcity) and perceived benefits (value) can influence buyer intent and how a well-known local brand collaboration may amplify these effects. Methodology/approach: The study uses a quantitative research approach, with data collected through an online questionnaire targeting Aerostreet shoe consumers in Jakarta. A total of 121 respondents were selected using the Slovin formula for large, indefinite populations. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the SmartPLS application to assess the relationships among the variables. Results/findings: The analysis reveals that both scarcity marketing and customer perceived value have a positive and significant influence on purchasing decisions. Furthermore, the presence of a brand collaboration with Aerostreet serves as a moderating variable that strengthens the impact of these marketing strategies on consumer behavior. Conclusion: Scarcity and perceived value are key drivers in consumer decision-making, and their influence can be enhanced through strategic brand collaborations such as those involving Aerostreet. Limitations: The study is limited to a specific brand and demographic region, so generalizability may be constrained. Contribution: This study provides practical insights for marketers on leveraging scarcity and value perceptions, especially when paired with brand collaborations, to increase consumer engagement and purchase intent.

Performance Variable: Influenced by Training, Organizational Culture, and Motivation

Purpose: This study investigates the impact of training, organizational culture, and motivation on employee performance in a service company, focusing on both their direct and indirect relationships and strategies for improvement. The research utilizes a quantitative survey and multiple linear regression analysis. Research methodology: This research seeks to examine the influence of training, organizational culture, and motivation on employee performance within a service company. This study also examines the direct and indirect relationship between these variables in improving employee performance. Results: The study results indicate that training, organizational culture, and motivation significantly affect employee performance, both simultaneously and partially. Conclusions: Investing is not as complicated as it may seem, and with careful planning, housewives can easily contribute to their family's financial well-being through strategic investment choices. Limitations: The F test shows that the regression model meets the model suitability criteria, and simultaneously, the three independent variables affect the dependent variable, partially revealing that organizational culture and motivation affect Performance, but training does not. Contribution: This study contributes to the understanding of how training, organizational culture, and motivation interact to influence employee performance in service companies. It offers practical insights for HR practitioners and management by highlighting that while motivation and culture have a strong direct effect, training alone may require enhancement in design or delivery to be impactful. The findings also support the development of more integrated employee development programs that align organizational values with personal incentives to improve performance outcomes.

Pengaruh Modal Sendiri dan KUR terhadap Pendapatan UMKM di Kecamatan Sindue

Purpose: This study seeks to investigate the impact of personal capital and People's Business Credit on the revenue of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Sindue District, Donggala Regency. Methodology: The study employed a quantitative verification approach, focusing on grocery stall MSMEs in Sindue District. Using purposive sampling, 110 respondents were selected. Both primary and secondary data were analyzed through multiple linear regression. Results: The findings revealed that MSME revenue in Sindue District was significantly and positively influenced by Own Capital (52.4%) and People's Business Credit (39.8%), with both variables explaining 76.9% of the revenue variation. The remaining 23.1% was attributed to other factors not examined in this study. Conclusions: Own capital and KUR both significantly boost MSME income in Sindue District. Own capital offers flexibility, while KUR supports production. However, access barriers remain. Combining both funding sources is key to MSME growth. Limitations: This study focused solely on MSMEs in Sindue District. Future research should expand the sample size and include additional variables, such as pricing strategies and financial management, to provide deeper insights into factors affecting business income. Contribution: This study's findings are anticipated to assist the government and financial institutions enhance targeted financing policies and aid MSMEs in their financial decision-making.

The Tax Audit, Discrimination, and Machiavellianism in Indonesian

Purpose: This study investigates the impact of tax audits and tax discrimination on tax evasion among MSMEs in Indonesia, with a particular focus on the moderating role of Machiavellianism. Methodology/approach: A quantitative survey was conducted with 170 MSME actors in Tangerang using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using CB-SEM with Mplus 8.0. A quantitative survey was conducted with 170 MSME actors in Tangerang using structured questionnaires. Respondents were selected purposively, and data were analyzed using CB-SEM with Mplus 8.0 to examine the influence of tax audits, tax discrimination, and Machiavellianism on tax evasion. Results/findings: Tax audits and tax discrimination significantly increase tax evasion, especially among individuals with high Machiavellian traits. These findings highlight the importance of fairness, ethical awareness, and psychological considerations in designing effective tax compliance strategies. Conclusion: Tax audits and discrimination can backfire and raise evasion risks among Machiavellian individuals, indicating the need for psychologically informed tax strategies. Limitations: The study's use of convenience sampling in a single location limits generalizability. Future research should explore broader regions. Practical implications include risk-based audits, ethics education, and improved tax official professionalism. Contribution: Theoretically, the study integrates psychological factors into MSME tax compliance. Practically, it promotes fair policies and ethical approaches to reduce evasion and strengthen trust in the tax system.