What is globalisation?
The increasing integration of world economies through trade, capital flows, technology, movement of people and MNC expansion.
Why is globalisation important for businesses?
It gives access to larger markets, increases competition, reduces costs through global production, and forces innovation.
What are the key drivers of globalisation?
Trade liberalisation, reduced transport costs, FDI growth, increasing migration and MNC expansion.
What are emerging economies?
Countries experiencing rapid industrialisation and rising incomes (e.g., BRICS, MINT).
Why are emerging economies important for global businesses?
Fast growth markets + rising incomes (sales), plus lower costs (cheaper labour + resources) (profits) and diversification/first-mover advantage.”
What are the risks of entering emerging economies?
Political instability, corruption, weak legal systems and poor infrastructure
What does GDP per capita measure?
measures the average economic output (income) per person in a country used as a rough indicator of average living standards/spending power.
Why do health indicators matter for assessing markets?
Higher life expectancy and lower mortality reflect a healthier, more productive workforce.
What is HDI and why is it used?
Human Development Index measures education, income and health — used to compare long-term growth potential.
What is international trade?
Exchange of goods and services across borders through imports and exports.
What is specialisation?
When a country focuses on producing A good/service providing a competitive advantage
Why does specialisation increase efficiency?
It reduces unit costs and increases productivity.
What is FDI?
Foreign Direct Investment — when businesses invest capital into production or operations overseas.
Why do firms invest overseas?
To access new markets, cheaper labour, lower costs, gain access to local resources/suppliers.
What are the benefits of inward FDI for a country?
Job creation, technology transfer, skills development, infrastructure improvement, tax revenue.
What are the drawbacks of inward FDI?
Environmental damage, worker exploitation,foreign ownership, profit repatriation.
What are push factors for expansion?
Saturated home markets, declining domestic sales, rising competition, and economic downturns.
What are pull factors for expansion?
“Access to larger, faster-growing foreign markets, economies of scale, diversification and cheaper resources.
What is offshoring?
Moving production abroad to reduce costs or access skilled labour
What are the advantages of offshoring?
Lower labour costs , access to raw materials and skilled labour, which helps the business to become more competitive
What are the disadvantages of offshoring?
Loss of local home jobs, quality issues, language barriers, ethical concerns.
What is outsourcing?
Contracting external firms to handle part of production or services.
What are the benefits of outsourcing?
Reduces cost, increases flexibility, allows focus on core activities.
What are the drawbacks of outsourcing?
Loss of control, reputational risk, possible lower quality.