The multinational firm

The Multinational firm research theme in the field of international business focuses on the complex dynamics and strategies of multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in the global marketplace. It delves into various aspects of MNEs, including headquarter-subsidiary relationships, internationalization processes, MNE strategies, and foreign direct investment.

This research theme is of paramount importance as it sheds light on the mechanisms and factors that drive the success and competitiveness of MNEs in the global business landscape. By studying the intricate relationships between headquarters and subsidiaries, the internationalization strategies adopted by MNEs, and the impact of foreign direct investment, researchers gain insights into the operations and challenges MNEs face.

Through examining empirical studies and case analyses, researchers explore; assumed autonomy-based initiatives, population density effects on exit likelihood, the liability of foreignness, pre-entry strategies for internationalization, and the human resource implications of MNEs. By understanding these dynamics, scholars and practitioners can develop strategies and practices that enhance the performance and effectiveness of MNEs in a global context.

Our researchers

Featured publications

• Cavanagh, A., Kalfadellis, P., & Freeman, S. (2021). Developing successful assumed autonomy-based initiatives: An attention-based view. Global Strategy Journal, 13(1), 176-216.
• Zeng, Y., & Xu, D. (2021). The effect of foreign firms’ population density on exit likelihood in a host country. Management Decision, 59(1), 32-50.
• Zeng, Y., & Xu, D. (2020). Liability of foreignness and the constitutive legitimation of foreign firms in a host country. Journal of World Business, 55(5), 101111.
• Zhang, M.M., Zhu, C. J., De Cieri, H., Dowling, P. J., & Chen, Z.X. (2019). A Corporate Entrepreneurship Perspective of Pre-entry Strategies for Internationalisation: Case Study of a Chinese Business Conglomerate. Thunderbird International Business Review, 61(2), 243-254.
• Cooke, F. L., Wu, G., Zhou, J., Zhong, C. & Wang, J. (2018). Acquiring global footprints: internationalization strategy of Chinese multinational enterprises and human resource implications, Journal of Business Research, 93, 184-201.
• Cooke, F. L., Wang, J. T., & Wood, G. (2022), ‘A vulnerable victim or a tacit participant? Extending the field of multinationals and corruption research’, International Business Review, 31:1, 101890.
• Lyles, M., Tsang, E., Li, S. X., Hong, J., Cooke, F. L., & Lu, J. (2022) ‘Learning and innovation of Chinese firms along the paths of “Bring In” to “Go Global”’, Journal of World Business, 57, 5, 101362.

Watch, listen, read

• Global garment industry bears the brunt of COVID supply chain woes, Impact Monash Business School, 2021.
• We're cut off, but how deep should this moat be?, Impact Monash Business School, 2020.