Phrase 1 Assignment
Phrase 1 Assignment
In the past 30 years the world economy has undergone a dramatic transformation
characterized by a decline in trade and investment barriers, the rise of emerging
markets, especially in Asia, and the process of cultural convergence. The economies
that were once self contained economies have become so intertwined that they have
formed into what is now an integrated global economic system. The corresponding
shift has radically altered the roles of major players and opened new possibilities and
tougher questions for various businesses – including companies from Great Britain,
North America, and Hong Kong.
Great Britain: Because developing nations are some of the fastest growing consumer
markets, British firms have had to expand their reach past Europe and North America.
British companies have opportunities and are being challenged by these economies all
with rising consumer spending power. Also, for Asian firms looking to enter in the
European market, the U.K. is often as an appealing gateway. Nevertheless, this creates
competitive threats by those expanding firms.
North America: The same changes are going on in the North American companies.
In particular, the rising economic importance of Latin America is an implication of
their ability to access global markets. But increased prosperity in this region means
opening up a big market right in North America's backyard-- a big one for U.S. and
Canadian companies seeking to supply growing consumer bases closer to home.
Hong Kong: Despite change in its political landscape, Hong Kong continues to be an
important economic bridge between mainland China. For businesses in Hong Kong
the shift to a market economy in China has brought enlarged market access, at the cost
of less secure free market freedom. With potential constraints on autonomy time,
Hong Kong firms have unique advantages from this position.
To illustrate these trends, I'll provide some charts showing Fig.1 changes in global
consumer spending power; Fig.2 shifts in GDP contributions over the past 30 years;
and Fig.3 foreign direct investment (FDI) flows for major economies into developing
regions, showing where North America matters for Latin America, and Asia for
Europe.
Risk analysis
The bar chart shows a higher level of risks, such as currency fluctuations, political
risks, legal complexities and cultural differences, in international business compared
to national business.
Required skills
The third diagram indicates a high need for specialized skills for international
business, including currency management, knowledge of international regulations,
cultural awareness and flexibility in adapting to different markets.
Charts
3.How does the Internet affect international business activity and the
globalization of the world economy? (at least 250 words)
4. The study of international business is fine if you are going to work in a large
multinational enterprise, but it has no relevance for individuals who are going to work
in small firms.” Evaluate this statement. (at least 200 words)
5. If current trends continue, China may be the world's largest economy by 2030.
Discuss the possible implications of such a development for (a) the world trading
system, (b) the world monetary system, (c) the business strategy of today's European
and U.S.-based global corporations,and (d) global commodity prices.
( use data, tables and charts, at least 150 words each question)