This chapter explores the significant disparities between rural and urban development in the Middle East, examining economic, financial, infrastructural, climate, and social dimensions. It begins with a historical overview, tracing the evolution of development patterns and key events that have influenced these disparities. By examining GDP, income levels, employment opportunities, and financial inclusion, the review highlights the stark contrasts between urban industrial centers and rural agricultural regions. The chapter delves into infrastructural discrepancies, such as transportation, education, digital divide and technological advancements, reliance on agriculture, and climate, in addition to social and financial disparities. Government policies and initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities are critically evaluated. Finally, it addresses the challenges and barriers to reducing these disparities and proposes innovative strategies for promoting inclusive and sustainable development, ensuring balanced growth across the region.

This study investigates the impact of tokenomics and the integration of blockchain technology on China’s digital economy, focusing on how blockchain adoption influences traditional business models. As China becomes a global leader in digital transformation, understanding the role of the blockchain in economic modernization is critical. The aim of this research is to quantify the effects of blockchain adoption on key economic indicators such as GDP growth, investment levels, and business innovation. Using panel data analysis and regression models, this study provides empirical evidence on the positive correlation between blockchain integration and improved economic performance. Key results reveal that a 1% increase in blockchain adoption is associated with a 0.3% rise in GDP growth, while tokenization contributes significantly to investment levels and business innovation. These findings emphasize the transformative potential of the blockchain in enhancing economic stability, increasing liquidity, and fostering new business opportunities. In conclusion, this research highlights the critical role of the blockchain and tokenomics in driving economic modernization in China, offering valuable insights for policymakers, business leaders, and investors aiming to leverage digital technologies for sustainable growth. Future research should explore the broader global implications of blockchain adoption and tokenomics in emerging markets.

This chapter examines the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in investment and wealth management, emphasizing its impact on decision-making, portfolio management, financial service personalization, and sustainable finance. It contrasts traditional investment methods with AI-driven strategies such as algorithmic trading, robo-advisors, and predictive analytics. The chapter explores AI's role in portfolio diversification, risk management, and tailored investment solutions, highlighting advancements in machine learning and natural language processing. AI-powered sentiment analysis in market forecasting is also analyzed, along with ethical and regulatory challenges like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and compliance. The systematic discussion concludes with future trends, including quantum computing and blockchain, and the challenges of integrating AI into legacy financial systems.

Purpose: This study aims at investigating the factors affecting green supply chain management at Lebanese non- chain restaurants. Mainly, this study aims to investigate the impact of green purchasing, reverse logistics, internal readiness, and government regulations on green supply chain management and using environmental performance as a mediator. Methodology/ Approach: The research employs a quantitative method approach using structural equation modeling with a sample size of 399 respondents in the context of Lebanon. Findings: The findings of the study reveal that green purchasing, reverse logistics, internal readiness, and government regulations do have a significant impact on green supply chain management and environmental performance partially mediates the relationship. Conclusion: This study shows that sustainability practices and standards are significantly influenced by governmental regulations. Businesses must keep tabs on the latest rules and regulations and act accordingly. Among the many environmental standards that must be followed is one governing waste management, emissions restrictions, and sustainable sourcing. Organizations may avoid fines, reduce risk to their reputation, and show their dedication to environmental protection if they proactively comply with government requirements.

The chapter explores the critical role of green investors in promoting and scaling the circular economy, a regenerative economic model designed to eliminate waste, maximize resource efficiency, and create long-term sustainability. It examines how investment strategies aligned with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles can support circular business models, and how financial markets are evolving to meet the demands of sustainability-focused stakeholders. Through a blend of theoretical perspectives, case studies, and policy analysis, the chapter identifies key investment trends, actors, challenges, and enabling mechanisms that link capital markets with circular economy transitions. It also discusses how financial innovation, impact measurement tools, and regulatory frameworks are shaping the behavior of green investors.