Fundamental and Applied Management Journal
Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026): September

Beyond Competitive Positioning: The Contingent Role of Operational Capability in SME Financial Performance Under Industrial Turbulence

Anwar (Program Studi Manajemen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Muhaidir Ikram (Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)
Mufidatul Azmi (Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)
Deddy Ibrahim Rauf (Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)
Mahesh Luthia (Chetana'
s Institute of Management, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises often struggle to convert valuable resources into superior financial outcomes. This study examines the relationships among strategic resources, competitive positioning, operational capability, and SME financial performance under industrial turbulence. Data were collected from 250 SME owners and managers in Makassar City, Indonesia, using a structured survey comprising five constructs measured with 108 items. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling with SmartPLS 4. Strategic resources positively influenced both competitive positioning and operational capability, while competitive positioning positively contributed to SME financial performance. In contrast, strategic resources, operational capability, and industrial turbulence did not have significant direct effects on financial performance. Industrial turbulence strengthened the relationship between operational capability and financial performance but did not significantly moderate the relationship between competitive positioning and financial performance. The findings show that strategic resources provide an important foundation for developing competitive positioning and operational capability, but resource possession alone does not ensure superior financial outcomes. Competitive positioning contributes directly to financial performance, whereas the financial value of operational capability becomes more pronounced under turbulent industrial conditions. These findings emphasize the distinct roles of resource endowment, market positioning, and context-dependent operational capability in explaining SME financial performance.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

FAMJ

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance Social Sciences

Description

Strategic and Operations Management, addressing strategic decision-making, operational excellence, supply chain, process improvement, and performance management. Business and International Management, covering global strategy, cross-border operations, internationalization, and comparative management ...