Abstract This paper discusses how, as the world has evolved into a global marketplace, companies are increasingly looking outside of their borders for business opportunities and how more and more companies are conducting business abroad to achieve their financial aspirations and growth. This paper examines how culture plays a major part in cross-border negotiations and mergers and acquisitions. Several ways that culture can affect negotiations are discussed and several types of training and awareness of different cultures are presented. Geert Hofstede's dimensions of culture are also explained. Finally, the paper examines four countries whose negotiating styles are vastly different from the negotiating styles of United States business persons.
From the Paper "Although negotiations between the same or very similar cultures may be difficult, negotiations with a different culture are more difficult. Business environments differ, including differences in local laws, regulations, foreign exchange rates and government controls. International deals also cross cultures. Cross-border deals include both opportunity and risk. Factoring cultural differences into the negotiation process to increase the likelihood of success has long been a critical issue with international deals. Globalization has led to cultural differences to be more important (Cellich & Jain, 2004, p. 11). It is imperative that negotiators conducting business abroad be familiar with the culture of the country they are doing business with. "
This paper is a research proposal to study the international management of cross-border risks and capital allocation decisions in a high risk environment.
Abstract This paper explains that, besides the risks inherent in domestic operations, banks, which are engaged in international activities also are exposed to "country risk," or the risk that economic, social and political conditions and events in a foreign country will adversely affect an institution's financial interests. The author points out that, from a practical perspective, accurate and timely country risk assessment is important not only because it affects individual investors but also because it can be systemic; one of the primary purposes of financial regulation is to manage systemic risk. The paper states that the research will be done using a case study methodology to study various country risk/crossborder risk management models adopted by a sample of international banks and to assess their robustness and how well they are associated with a framework of planned management actions and capital allocation decisions.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Overview of Study
Purpose of Study
Key Term Definitions
Capital Allocation Decision
Country Risk Ratings
Risk
Preliminary Literature Review
Background and Overview
Current and Future Trends
The Countries' Performance in International Trade
Leverage
Various measures of liquidity
Methodology
Description of the Study Approach
Data-gathering Method and Database of Study
From the Paper "A significant amount of cross-border lending takes place through offices in a bank's home country (or even one of its subsidiaries located in a third country), with no subsidiary (or even branch presence) located in the country in which the borrowing firm is headquartered. Retail banking requires a physical presence of some sort to provide points of contact with customers; by contrast, wholesale banking requires a much smaller investment. "For example, banks with no physical presence in a country can lend substantial volumes of funds to firms and governmental entities of that country through project finance and loan participations." The composition of borrowers will differ, though, depending on whether a foreign bank has a physical presence in a country or manages its loans from offshore locations."
Abstract This paper examines the incidence of inter-regime marriages between Hong Kong and mainland China. The paper discusses when this trend started and analyzes the cultural, socioeconomic and geopolitical factors that lead to cross-border marriages between local-born Hong Kong men and mainland Chinese women. The paper also discusses the social environment problems such as cross-border concubines, marriage brokers and legal and illegal-increases in fake marriages of convenience as women marry into more desirable locations within and beyond China's borders, creating a shortage of brides in more remote rural regions.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Methodology
Literature Review
Background of the Study
Cross-Border Marriages and Rationale in Choice of Partner
Inter-Regime Marriages
Reasons Men in Hong Kong Choose Wives from Mainland China
Cross-Border Marriages = Cross-Border Children
Legal Issues of Mainland Born Children with One Parent in Hong Kong
Basic Law Regulating Children Born Outside of Hong Kong with Parent in Hong Kong
Analysis of the "Mess" (Ho Hei-wa: Director of Society for Community Organization
Proponents of the Bill: Rationale
Uninitiated Queues and the Psychological Harm Caused to Waiting or Hiding Children
Geopolitical Aspects of Cross-Border Marriage
Summary & Conclusion
From the Paper "Corruption is prevalent in a system that requires the payment of high bribes and fees for smuggling of children into a country in order that the children may be with their parents. The government that uses regulations in this matter is one that appears bent on completely breaking down the parent-child and family structure in Hong Kong and mainland China. The red-tape and bureaucracies existing in a system that does not meet queue quotas is one that perpetuates bribery and smuggling of human beings. Furthermore, these types of regulations do not support the country economically as exampled in the cases of parents unable to work because they are the only parent available to the children due to the entry requirements and regulations in Hong Kong. Certainly, it would be more efficient to invest in more schools and teachers than to force parents into welfare situations when they would rather be working and the country as a whole would be more productive and this is not even to factor in the psychological harm caused to these children who are forced to hide while being smuggled, to live underground so as not to be discovered in Hong Kong and then there are the children who are dragged in handcuffs and repatriated to a homeland they have never known but due to regulations are forced to enter into and live among strangers."
This paper explains that, among the various ways to get business financing, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have emerged in recent years as one of the most popular strategies for business growth.
Abstract This paper states that a merge is recognized as a mutual decision between two companies to combine into a single legal entity; whereas, an acquisition is a purchase of a smaller company by a much larger one again resulting in one entity. The author points out that, if, in an M&A, especially in the technological area, the integrated firm has a larger knowledge base compared to the acquiring firm and if the acquired knowledge is not integrated quickly and functionally, then this situation can have a negative impact on the acquirer's innovative performance. The paper concludes that, with increased globalization, continued growth in cross-border M&As can be successful as long as the firms take into consideration the sensitive cultural and economic values involved. The paper includes two color graphs.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Mergers and Acquisitions
The Rationale behind Mergers and Acquisitions
Post-M&A Performances of Technological and Non-Technological M&As
Cross-border M&As
Conclusion
From the Paper "Taking as an example the utility industries in the USA and Europe, according to James Hendrickson, a partner in the utility industry group known as Adventure, M&A is seen as a vehicle to create value. It is one of the main strategies adopted by most utility companies to consolidate the balance sheet and enhance financial performance. Hendrickson has also remarked that this strategy is used to increase presence in selected markets and to reduce operating costs by taking possession of specific assets. The author points out that M&A is a valid strategy to improve the difference between the market price of electricity and its cost of production (spark spread) and to level the portfolio with the purpose of controlling the fluctuation of operating costs."
Tags: synergy, strategies, cross-border, post, technology
This paper is a complete research project that, based on the integrative model, analyzed merger and acquisition (M&A)s including human resource management (HRM).
Abstract This paper explains that the purpose of this study is (1) to develop and test the integrative model that synthesizes theoretical perspectives on the strategic combination, organizational integration, resource management (HRM) and financial performance components of merger and acquisitions (M&As) and (2) to examine the mechanisms through which several critical characteristics of an acquisition affect its performance. The author describes in detail the reasons for selecting the case methodology instead of a questionnaire and for using the qualitative methods. The paper relates that this research provides new insight on the effects of relative size on acquisition performance by suggesting that bigger acquisitions do better because they offer greater synergy potential, not because managers pay more attention to the integration process when targets are large as suggested in past research. Tables.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Problem Statement
Purpose of the Study
Rationale of the Study
Scope and Objectives
Summary
Literature Review
Combination Potential
Organizational Integration
Employee Resistance
Interrelationships among Antecedents of M&A Performance
Management Style Similarity
Cross-border Combination
Relative Size
Methodology
Sample
Measures
Reliability and Validity of the Data
Data Analysis
Results
Findings
Discussion
Analysis
Future Implications
Summary
Conclusion
Summary
Recommendations
From the Paper "Organizational and HRM researchers have pointed out that strategic combination potentials are not automatically realized, and that the extent of synergy realization depends on how the new organization is managed after the M&A deal is closed (Datta 1998, Hunt 2004, Schweiger et al. 2001). Organizational integration, defined as the degree of interaction and coordination between the two firms involved in a merger or acquisition, is commonly cited as an important consideration in the M&A process (Buono and Bowditch 2004, Pablo 1998, Shrivastava 2004, Yunker 2003). Indeed, numerous typologies of organizational integration processes have been suggested in the literature, each distinguishing between high and low degrees of integration (e.g., Haspeslagh and Jemison 1998, Hunt 2004, Napier 2004). The degree of integration has also been used as a moderator of the organizational fit/M&A performance relationship by Datta (1998), who found it to be non-significant in his study."
Abstract This paper reviews an article on cross-border political and economic relations between the U.S. and Mexico. The paper discusses the advantages to the Mexican economy of Mexican immigration to the United States as well as the impact of the growing Mexican-American population on American society.
From the Paper "Maria Rosa Garcia-Acevedo, in an article titled "Politics Across Borders: Mexico's Policies Toward Mexicans in the United States" makes several important points regarding the relationships between Mexican government policies and the interactions between Mexico and the U.S." Specifically, Garcia-Acevedo suggests that it is vital to recognize that the so-called Mexican diaspora which has resulted in the presence of millions of Mexicans legally and illegally in the U S has resulted in a necessary and vital influx of some U S billion..."
Tags: Mexico, United States, Mexican-Americans, immigration
Abstract This paper discusses mergers and acquisitions. It covers the possible benefits of mergers and acquisitions and the factors that lead to success. It then details reasons why so many mergers and acquisitions fail to meet their objectives, including improper motivations, incorrectly estimating value, financing, integration and cross-border complexity.
From the Paper "Structuring of a cross-border acquisition or combination involves all of the issues discussed in this paper plus it poses additional risks. There are two sets of laws and regulations, two sets of tax and accounting rules, two very diverse cultures, two political systems, and in some cases two securities markets (Ruegger). A cross-border merger or acquisition might also involve other financial issues such as raising funds in one market for investment in another, changes in the exchange rate and different accounting standards. The winners in cross-border mergers understand the differences in corporate specifics and learn how to capitalize on its corporate diversity (Strebel, 2002). This will require building mutual trust and taking advantage of the best practice on both sides."
Abstract The paper reviews the manner in which the nations of the United States and Canada address illegal immigration, specifically at the northern US border. The paper looks at the major elements; laws, bureaucratic initiatives and legal sanctions employed by the United States to secure its northern border. The paper also looks at where the Canadian approach is similar and where it is markedly different.
From the Paper "Illegal immigration into America via its southern border has received a great deal of attention for a very long time. However, America also has a northern border about which it should be concerned because this border - the Canada-US border - is allowing into the United States people who constitute a grave threat to the lives of every-day Americans. With this in mind, the following paper will explore illegal immigration into the US via the Canadian border by looking at how each country deals with the problem."
Abstract The paper maintains that Stott's book, "The Cross of Christ," is an important book. For those Christians who want to further explore the meaning behind the Cross and behind Christ's death, it is a thought-provoking resource. The paper explains how Stott makes a very good case for the Cross being more than simply important, but rather that it is a vital part of Christianity. Without the Cross, Stott argues that Christianity as we know it would not exist. The paper is of the opinion that after reading this book, it is difficult to argue with this perspective.
From the Paper "John R. W. Stott takes the position that the Cross is essential to Christianity. He makes his convincing argument by dividing the discussion into four parts, discussing the Cross as a symbol, the need for forgiveness, the spiritual benefits that the Cross has provided to believers and finally, on the practical and earthly teachings that the Cross can offer. Stott does not have all the answers on the subject of Christ's Cross. However, the book is a thoughtful and complex study offering suggestions on the subject of the Cross upon which Christ died. The Cross is important, Stott states, because it performs more than the single function of being the method of execution favored by the Romans."
Abstract This paper examines immigration issues as they pertain to the U.S.'s Mexico border. It is evident that throughout its history the United States has experienced continuous immigration, as American political freedom, religious tolerance, economic opportunities, and huge geographical size have combined to draw millions of people from all around the world to America in hopes of building better lives for themselves and their children.
From the Paper "In analyzing immigration issues as they pertain to the U.S.-Mexico border, it is evident that throughout its history, the United States has experienced continuous immigration, for American political freedoms, religious tolerance, economic opportunities, and huge geographical size have combined to draw millions of people from all around the world to America in hopes of building better lives for themselves and their children. Over the years, the pace of immigration has waxed and waned depending upon political, religious, and economic conditions, but emigration from Mexico to the United States has remained steady, both in terms of legal and illegal immigrants."
Abstract This paper explains Wal-Mart's proprietary cross-docking system as part of a global supply chain management system. The paper describes advantages of the technique of cross-docking, how this innovation supports the replenishment of Wal-Mart stores.
From the Paper "Cross-docking is a relatively new and extremely effective technique used in global supply chain management. This technique can rapidly consolidate shipments from different sources and reduce the cost of outbound transportation by eliminating the inventory-holding function of a warehouse without hampering its consolidation and shipping functions. An important adjunct to the warehouse management systems now in use in many industries, Hill Fig cross-docking eliminates several intermediate steps in the warehousing process."
Tags:cross-docking, Wal-Mart, warehouse management system, global supply chain management
Abstract This paper discusses the relaxation by the Australian authorities of cross-media and foreign ownership laws. The debate seems to balance out as to the number of the pros and cons and the weight of the arguments of each side. However, sifting through the arguments the paper shows that they meet halfway on the need to protect media against excess concentration of power and foreign influence. On these concerns, the Australian government seems to draw lessons from the media liberalization programs of other developed countries, which are allowing cross-media ownership and foreign participation up to more manageable limits and only in specific media areas where activities are calculated to pose lesser risks. The paper concludes that the problem is that, despite these safeguards, people will always look at media deregulation with suspicion and misgiving because of the sensitive nature of this industry.
From the Paper "After Lord Morley left journalism to join government service in the early stages of the development of media in UK, there is an oft-quoted remark made to him by Kennedy Jones, co-founder of the venerable Daily Mail. "You left journalism a profession. We made it a branch of commerce," Jones told Morley. The equally famous rejoinder was: "The more, the pity." One view in effect exults that media has evolved into a business proposition, where profit takes precedence over its traditionally loftier priorities. The other opinion looks with sadness at such commercialization of journalism, implying that this is inimical to public interest.
That pithy exchange from the past captures the essence of the present-day debate in Australia triggered by the government announcement of plans to deregulate media after 20 years of controls on foreign ownership and cross-media transactions. The Morley-Jones clash of views between the public service and business orientation of media deferred to old UK conditions, but the same hairsplitting still rings true today and continues to reverberate throughout the world as economic opportunities diminish and competition for scarce resources tighten up. Since almost all sectors of national economies have been served up for foreign interests in the universal drive to generate much-needed foreign investment, governments in many parts of the world, both developed and underdeveloped, are fixing their attention on the media industry as the last remaining enticement for foreign investors. As Australian Sen. Ron Walker puts it: "Media has become the last major industry begging for reform to bring it to the 21st century." By inference, the senator is batting for a new scheme that would keep Australian media in step with the times by allowing foreign investment into the arena."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the topic of non-profit disaster mitigation organization. Specifically, the paper analyzes the American Red Cross including the mission of the organization, its involvement in recent disasters, and funding issues. The paper also examines the Red Cross's relief and disaster efforts.
From the Paper "The American Red Cross has been in existence since the nineteenth century. Organized by nurse Clara Barton, it has grown to be one of the premier disaster mitigation organizations in the country and the world. It is a non-partisan, humanitarian organization responds to all types of local and national emergencies, from families displaced by home fires to war and terrorism victims. Its mission is to step in during any time of disaster and provide food, clothing, shelter, and assistance to any victims of that disaster."
Abstract This paper reviews Richard Fletcher's book, "The Cross and the Crescent," which presents a history of the relations between Muslims and Christians. The reviewer sees Fletcher's work as coming at an opportune times, since today the West often feels a sense of hysteria regarding anything related to Islam. The reviewer sees the "The Cross and the Crescent" as providing important information about Islamic civilization and culture, presenting the Arab world in a more comprehensive way. The reviewer also describes the Muslim view of the Christian world, and concludes by citing Fletcher's opinion that both cultures influenced each other.
From the Paper "Fletcher's book focuses on the attitude that the Muslims had regarding to the Christians and vice-versa more than to purely historical aspects. For example, he pays not so much attention to the historical events of the crusades, but to the effect they had on the Muslim population. The book provides a valuable insight to Islam and to the relations between Islam and Christianity."
Tags:Cross, and, the, Crescent, Richard, Fletcher, Christianity, Islam, West
Abstract This paper is a critical analysis of cross-cultural politeness using the Brown and Levinson's model as a basis for defining and understanding politeness and applying it to three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese.
From the Paper "What is politeness? If I propose that 'politeness' be used as pragmatically terminology, the preferable definition is to be found in appropriateness. It can be also said to be universal only in the sense that every society has some sort of norms for the appropriate behavior, although these norms are vary. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide a cross-cultural context by applying a well-known Brown and Levinson's model (1978 and revised in 1987), which has been applied in various settings, from casual services, encounters to EFL classrooms. However, Brown and Levinson's model (1978) has been criticized for being too geared to Western (especially American) notions of "independence" and, hence, for its limited applicability in Asian contexts. I have attempted in the following by first giving a general and brief account for Brown and Levinson's model (1978), and then try to apply and analyze the Brown and Levinson's model (1978) in three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese. "
