THE INTEGRATION OF INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL DIMENSIONS AS A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: A MANAGERIAL ANALYSIS

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.2165925300715

• Palavras-chave: Intellectual Capital; Human Capital; Structural Capital; Relational Capital; Competitive Advantage.

• Keywords: Intellectual Capital; Human Capital; Structural Capital; Relational Capital; Competitive Advantage.

• Abstract:

  The objective of this study was to analyze how the integration of intellectual, human, structural, and relational capital dimensions contributes to building competitive advantage in financial institutions. Using a qualitative and exploratory-descriptive approach, the research was conducted through 15 semi-structured interviews with middle and senior managers of public and private financial institutions in Northeast Brazil. Data analysis used content analysis, categorizing responses according to the three dimensions of intellectual capital and their interrelationships. The results indicated that human capital acts as the initial driver, driven by specialized knowledge, creativity, and adaptability, and enhanced by structured development programs, such as corporate universities. Structural capital emerged as a facilitator, providing infrastructure, processes, and organizational culture that convert individual knowledge into lasting organizational assets. Relational capital, on the other hand, acted as an amplifier, strengthening institutional reputation and generating opportunities for innovation through trusting relationships with customers and partners. We conclude that competitive advantage does not result from the isolated use of these dimensions, but from their strategic integration, forming a virtuous cycle that sustains innovation, growth, and differentiation in the financial market.