325-102 Business in the Global Economy

The subject introduces students to managing business in the contemporary global economy. Today's challenge is for firms to manage across borders and across cultures. To compete globally, managers need to understand the economic, social and political frameworks that support cross-border commerce. The subject analyses multinational management, focusing on how managers plan market entry strategies, organise and control subsidiaries, build strategic alliances and position themselves in an increasingly competitive global environment. New challenges for managers include technological innovation, new business models, e-commerce, 'green' environmental issues, and business ethics in different countries. The subject examines how firms manage their relations with governments, non-government organisations and external stakeholders. Particular emphasis is given to the dynamics of Asian businesses and the operation of multinational enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region.

A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (50%), and tutorial-based assignments totalling not more than 5000 words (50%).

• Business in the Global Economy: Tutorial Readings.
• Charles W L Hill, Global Business Today. McGraw Hill, 2002.