Basic knowledge of micro and macro economics (indication: 2x 3EC at the level of BSc management/business)

Basic knowledge of strategy, organizational behavior and marketing (indication 3 x 3EC at the level of BSc management/business)

Basic knowledge of statistics (6EC at BSc level)

This course develops a medium-to-advanced level of knowledge and competencies related to (1) international economics and governmental policy-making; (2) international business strategic decision-making; and (3) decision-making on international issues in the context of the classic functional management domains. The course splits in two parts. Part A deals with international economics as the foundation of international business strategy. Part B further develops international business strategy landing at the level of functional management domains.

Part A:In the part ‘Economics of IB’ we explore the most important models and concepts of international trade, including classic and new trade theory and the analysis of trade policies. We investigate why firms trade, what they trade, and how trade affects aggregate welfare and inequality. We examine the relationship between international trade and the UN environment agenda. Further, the course covers key institutional aspects of international trade, such as trade policy, the functioning of the GATT/WTO and the trade policies of the EU. We will also address some of the main contemporary debates of trade policy: new deep trade agreements and their consequences, foreign direct investment, exchange rate regimes, and debt crises. Limited economic empirical analysis will be incorporated into lectures. Each topic starts with some empirical stylized facts before discussing theory. Throughout the course, students apply theory and models as tools for policy-making case studies.

Part B: In this part we explore how firms compete globally, focusing on international business strategy and the role of firm-specific and location advantages. We examine how multinational enterprises (MNEs) structure their networks, balancing home-country strengths with host-country challenges. Key topics include international innovation, entry mode dynamics (e.g., foreign distributors, alliances, M&As), cross-border marketing and also cover international sourcing and production, global finance, and reporting. The course integrates empirical research, case studies, and real-world illustrations, ensuring students apply theory to contemporary global challenges.