Course Description
The globalization of the world economy is radically changing the business landscape. Consequently, multinationals are becoming more ubiquitous as an instrument of economic and business activity. The business leaders of tomorrow need to be trained today in the unique requirements of multinational management. It is toward this objective that the proposed course in international business relations is being offered. Which factors propel firms to expand production abroad? How companies assess political risk to their international operations?
The overall course is divided into three modules, as follows:
Module I–International Business Context– provides an historical perspective on globalization and presents a viewpoint on its future direction. It also covers some of the globalization drivers including international trade and investment and how they spawn multinational activity. It also examines how states and companies can develop competitive advantage and defines the implications for multinationals as well as host countries.
Module II—International Business Strategies–begins with the theoretical framework of mode and extent of entering foreign markets. It also provides a conceptual framework for formulation of international business strategy.
Module III—Cross Border Alliances, Mergers and Acquisitions–discusses cross border mergers and the associated risks. It also highlights the precautions one needs to take and how to integrate the merged/acquired businesses successfully.
Throughout the course, relevant and real-world case studies as well as other examples would be used to elucidate the theoretical concepts and frameworks. The student grades and relative eightage would be based on: (1) class participation (2) sufficient evidence of understanding of the reading materials assigned (3) presentations of case analyses and other materials (4) completion of one paper and written exam.
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