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International Business Dissertation Topics (28 Examples) For Research

Mark May 31, 2020 Jun 5, 2020 Business , International Business No Comments

With time, the business world has evolved, and globalisation has contributed to bringing revolutionary changes in the field of business. With the increasing internationalisation, the scope and area for research in the field of international business have increased. We have listed down some very interesting and unique international business dissertation topics to help you in […]

We have listed down some very interesting and unique international business dissertation topics to help you in choosing a workable topic. The following list of research topics on international business are developed to help students in finding the best topic for their research project.

You can also check our other business related topics posts to have further options.

Business Management Research Topics
Research Topics on Business
Business Administration Research Topics

List of International business dissertation topics

An analysis of global migrants studying the implications for international business and management.

An overview of the recent trends and future challenges in international business, cities, and competitiveness.

Exploring the international business in the information and digital age.

A systematic review of the issues of international entrepreneurship.

Exploring the competitive advantage strategies based on network analysis.

Studying the internationalisation of African firms based on opportunities, challenges and risks.

An investigation of the changing retail trends: emerging opportunities and challenges in Asian countries.

A review of protectionism, state discrimination, and international studies onset of the global financial crisis.

Examining the evolution of entrepreneurial finance in the last 10 years.

A study of the emergence of impacts of mobile commerce – an exploratory study.

Evaluation of the emergence and evolution of blue ocean strategy through the lens of management fashion theory.

Studying the impact of organisational performance on the emergence of Asian American leaders.

The importance of designing a closed-loop supply chain for improving the sustainability of global business practices.

A literature review of strategies for winning and competing in the global market.

Exploring the concepts of populism and the economics of globalisation.

An analysis of how effective leadership can contribute to facilitating change in the international business context.

Studying the influence of cross-cultural differences on international marketing.

Analysing the implications of domestic reforms and international relations on international businesses.

A review of the effects of globalisation on Asian international retailing taking the case of IKEA.

An analysis of technology trends and their impact on the internationalisation of businesses.

A study of emerging trends in global business and its implications for economies.

Identifying the five major trends that are dramatically changing work and the workplace in this era.

The emergence of corporate social responsibilities and its importance for international businesses.

An analysis of the trade challenges at the world trade organisations .

Analysing the strategic challenges of outsourcing innovation in the global market.

Studying the evolving global strategic trends.

Exploring the policy challenges from closer international trade and financial integration.

Why do businesses internationalise? – a review of factor influencing the decisions to internationalise.

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International Business Dissertations

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The D.B.A. in international business trains highly qualified individuals for careers in academics, consulting and multinational corporations. This collection includes dissertations written by graduates of our D.B.A. program.

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Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, outstanding international business research: nature of the best international business dissertations.

Multinational Business Review

ISSN : 1525-383X

Article publication date: 11 March 2008

Based on fifteen years of data on the annual Academy of International Business (AIB) best dissertation Farmer Award finalists, we find that these dissertations were done at a range of North American universities. Interestingly, dissertation topics differed from the topics covered in the three top IB journals with five‐sixths of the topics in management, organization, economics, or finance and two‐thirds set in a single country or region (U.S., Japan, North America, and Western Europe). Survey research is the most common methodology but analysis of secondary data is growing. As expected, the finalists are on average an extraordinarily prolific group.

Academy of International Business (AIB)
International business research
Dissertation
IB education

Aggarwal, R. , Petrovic, V. , Ryans, J.K. and Zong, S. (2008), "Outstanding International Business Research: Nature of the Best International Business Dissertations", Multinational Business Review , Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/1525383X200800001

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Business Dissertation Topics

2020 was a year of drastic change, with many businesses shut down by the pandemic. However 2021-22 onwards promises rapid economic growth, as business activity sharply expands. So, to help you out we’ve provided a selection of free and original business dissertation topics, suitable for both Master’s and Bachelor’s degree dissertations. These topics cover a large range of subjects within the business discipline, so you are sure to find one suited to your own interests. Each of these topics will allow you to produce an original and ambitious dissertation that will contribute to the existing knowledge of your subject area. So, if you’ve been searching far and wide for a great business dissertation topic, look no further!

Global Politics and Global Business Dissertation Topics

Global strategy for business dissertation topics, technology and innovation management business dissertation topics, corporate social responsibility business dissertation topics, international human resource management dissertation topics, management of international change dissertation topics, leadership and innovation business dissertation topics, globalisation and strategy business dissertation topics.

This is one of the most important aspects of international business as it examines the connection between global politics and global business. It looks at some of the most important factors, institutions, and processes that affect international business and studies the political environment of business, which has been particularly volatile over the last five years.

Evaluating the performance of global business teams within multinational corporations: the test of an intervening process model.
How does Corporate Governance affect internationalisation, globalisation and the performance of firms?
What sorts of themes and images might create trans-cultural resonance and dissonance within an international classroom comprised of diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds?
Can production for global markets help business groups to mobilise collectively? Under what conditions does globalisation enable the private sector to develop independent organisational bases and create effective relationships with the state?
How different patterns of business-government relations affect processes of industrial upgrading: A case study of emerging economies.
How do multinational organisations tackle the growing complexity of managing themselves in light of the rise to significant power of non-governmental organisations?
A look at the effect that Brexit is likely to have on British businesses, especially the average small and medium enterprise (SME).
How will Brexit impact on the regulatory burden of large business and corporations in the United Kingdom and Europe?
Business-Government relations within a contingency theory framework: strategy, structure, fit, and performance.
What is the meaning and process of globalisation and how does it impact the way in which business teams work together?
In the aftermath of the Covid-19 crisis, is globalisation still going to be a key market driver?
Global strategy and local implementation: Examining how multinational corporations apply Corporate Governance in China.
How will firms investing in China manage the political undercurrents, as talk increases of a new Cold War between the West and China?
What factors affect multinational corporations’ choice of corporate political strategy? Examining the influence of perceived regulatory pressure on company’s political strategies.
Using a legitimacy perspective to examine how firms entering the Chinese market manage political risk.
A critical examination of the potential implications of Brexit for UK firms’ EU-based supply chain.
Brexit and foreign direct investment into the UK: An examination of the potential impact on new venture start-ups in the UK.

Global business strategy focuses on understanding the main strategic issues that organisations face when they operate as a global business. Specifically, the issues relate to three areas: understanding global strategic analysis, formulating a global strategy, and developing sources of competitive advantage in a given company.

What are the risks and benefits of an International Joint Venture?
How should a business strategy be developed to expand a business in an international market?
A comparative study of Mergers and Acquisitions within the Aviation sector: Case study of Qatar Airways’ joint venture with the International Airlines Group.
A research on the exit strategy of foreign venture capital investment in international private business sector.
What are the business strategies and key success factors of Financial Holding Companies in the international environment?
How does an organisation benefit from an effective vendor management strategy?
Why are some vendor relationships more successful than others?
Developing an effective framework for knowledge sharing and utilisation in global project teams.
Can entrepreneurship be utilised as an effective management strategy within a business unit?
What effects will the consumers’ increasing use of the online channel to fashion shopping have on the strategies used by UK clothing retailers?
An assessment of sustainable competitive advantage within the UK DIY multiple market sector.
Develop your own definition of logistics, that you think reflects how logistics is evolving and explain why you think it is appropriate for today and the next decade.
A study of the problems of managing international collaboration in the military aero-engine business.
New possibilities in logistics and supply chain management provided by Big Data: examining the birth and growth of supply chain analytics.
Designing a closed-loop supply chain for improving sustainability of global business practices.
Developing a strategy for winning in the Indian market: A case study of Suzuki Motor Corporation.

These topics consider the ways in which business firms develop and implement technology as a strategy and integrate technological and innovative capabilities in support of their business operations. These topics mainly investigate how technology has revolutionised the business environment causing disruption, new opportunities and challenges for firms to deal with.

A study of how business operations have improved as a result of innovation: Are they converging towards one universal approach?
What are the market challenges experienced by new UK mobile telecommunication companies?
How will 5G technology impact on the growth of digital consumer markets in the UK?
How does online branding provide competitive advantage in the digital era: a study of the consumer electronics industry?
A study into how ICT integration has transformed procurement of goods and services.
Building virtual dominions – A comparative study of mergers, acquisitions and strategic alliances in e-commerce: case studies of Amazon.com and eBay.
What are the technological factors surrounding the relationship between organisational growth and performance?
A study into the role of online marketing in creating global supply chain networks.
A study into how organisations suffer the negative effects of modern day technology.
What are the main factors impacting on the success of online branding for corporations?
Assessing the role of social media in global branding: cases of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Exploring the impact of technology on CRM operations within call centres in the UK and analyse the factors that affect the well-being of the employee?
A study into the opportunities of implementing an e-HR system: Case of British Energy.
A study into how companies influence technology and innovation within suppliers: Case of Apple.
Assessing technology diffusion models among online shoppers in the UK.
Business process reengineering and the challenges facing airlines, a critical study of the factors influencing Saudi Airlines’ BPR initiatives.
What are the barriers to successful/profitable e-commerce deployment in government organisations?
Comparing and contrasting government e-commerce portals with private ones such as eBay and Amazon: which offers the better user experience and business outcomes?
How has integration of technology into HR improved organisational efficiency?
What is the impact of technology on FMCG industry towards meeting consumer demands in the UK market?
Assessing the role of innovation towards creation of new opportunities for SMEs in the UK.
What determinant factors influence integration of technology in the Supply Chain Management (SCM) sector.

Governments, activists and the media have become adept at holding companies to account for the social consequences of their actions. In response, corporate social responsibility has emerged as an inescapable priority for business leaders in every country. The fact is many prevailing approaches to CSR are quite disconnected from strategy. Business should treat CSR as something central to their strategy and hence contribute as a core competence for many organisations. These topics evaluate how business can utilise CSR practices to enhance opportunities for organisational success.

How does Corporate Social Responsibility impact on customer loyalty?
What is the role of staff training in developing and executing CSR skills?
What are the key strategic decisions facing companies in order to improve their performance in Corporate Social Responsibility?
Does Corporate Social Responsibility enhance corporate reputation? A case study of Tesco.
What are the challenges facing ethical businesses in the UK for moving to the mainstream?
How can businesses gain advantage from adopting CSR practices with respect to climate change?
A study into the impact of green and lean practices on organisational performance.
How have environmental policies transformed CSR practices within organisations: Case of BAT.
What are the effects of CSR on sustainability: Case of Coca Cola.
How will multinational organisations deal with the growing emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in large markets like Germany and India?
To what extent will CSR be sacrificed for greater economic growth in the aftermath of the Coronavirus pandemic?
How can firms successfully make Corporate Social Responsibility operable in the modern corporate environment?
Is there a relationship between diversity and Corporate Social Responsibility, what is its contribution to organisational performance?
What is the impact of CSR on brand equity: Case study of Toyota UK?
How does CSR impact on organisational performance?
CSR and societal expectations: A case study of Unilever.

International Human Resource Management refers to activities that are designed to support organisations in managing human resources at an international level so that competitive advantage can be maintained at both the national and international level. The subject area includes understanding of culture factors, both in terms of beliefs and attitudes of international employees and in relation to international employment legislation. Studying the area provides insights into the way that corporate HR functions can contribute to international business strategy and build functional knowledge of the main developments in the management of expatriates and other forms of international management. Changing perspectives are crucial as more and more organisations operate on a global basis and have head offices in a home country and operational sites in host nations. Functionally this can involve expatriates but increasingly includes high usage of virtual technology to create links between home and host country operational sites. The following topics are an indication of key areas of current interest in the field.

What are the benefits and challenges of inter-cultural team working in virtual environments and how these teams influence competitive advantage.
Virtual working environments became something of a norm during the pandemic. Will this apply to home countries of international corporations as well?
What are the bases of employee commitment in terms of affective, normative and calculative commitment in a global multi-national?
What are the effects of organisational transition on employee commitment in large multinational companies?
How do mergers impact on employee motivation and commitment, and how can any fallout be managed?
How can cultural differences in international collaborative projects be managed?
Can job-swaps between international workers improve inter-cultural working in multi-national organisations?
What is the relationship between the three components of commitment to organisational change and the perceived success of an organisational change?
What effect will the UK’s decision to leave the EU have on economic migrants, and how can this be managed by IHRM practices and polices?
How will Brexit impact on British workers in the EU, and to what extent can this be managed by IHRM practices and policies?
How does one manage employee commitment in the not-for-profit sector across different national cultures?
Using models of Strategic Human Resource Management assess and appraise how BAE Systems is achieving strategy through effective people management practices.
What are the main factors that affect employee retention at international call centres?
What are the most effective practices for working a unique Human Resource policy across multiple divisions of large diversified companies?
A study of the constantly changing global business environment and how effective human resource planning enables organisations to achieve their strategic objectives.
What effect does the Brexit decision and subsequent negotiations have on the management of EU operational sites by UK based companies?
What is the role and value of effective IHRM strategic thinking to effective negotiation of joint ventures between the UK and BRIC countries?
Can IHRM be effective in delivering culturally appropriate work-life balance and flexible working patterns for multi-national firms?

Change, at the organisational level is vital for continued innovation and retention of competitive advantage. Therefore, understanding the different aspects of this topic is vital in creating awareness of existing views and practices for implementing and managing successful change, particularly at the international level. This topic area is therefore focused on the what, why and how involving managing change in contemporary organisations and social systems in general, and how they may impact on the effectiveness of change. In particular, it examines the issues and dilemmas facing those managing change, as well as the skills required for successful adaptation and evolution, especially in an international context.

What internal and external factors have the greatest impact on employees in cross-national mergers and acquisitions?
Managing change across multi-cultural teams through technology and virtual project management: The impact of social understanding and use of digital media.
What are the biggest changes in home working practises going to be following Coronavirus, and what impact will they have on employee retention?
Managing change: Developing a framework that links intended strategies and unanticipated outcomes.
Employee adjustment during organisational change: The role of organisational level and occupation.
How can employee motivation levels be sustained during organizational restructuring?
Success of a Product Lifecycle Management Implementation – an investigation into the electronics manufacturing industry.
How power works through managing emotion in organisational change: emotion management as power.
How can the measurement of levels of work stress in individuals employed in an organisation undergoing change benefit it?
Encouraging gender equality across international firms – what role can change management approaches take in supporting increased female representation in traditionally masculine firms?
Managing change in Asian business – A comparison between Chinese-educated and English-educated Chinese entrepreneurs in Singapore.
What is the impact of feedback during organisational culture change: a case study of a financial firm?
Stakeholder Communication and Transformational Change: A case study in the use of a proprietary change management system.
What effect is there on levels of resistance and conflict when organisational change is lead by a servant or spiritual leader?
How social media can facilitate acceptance of change in international organisations.
Soft skills are not enough: Why change management approaches also need strong project management planning to be successful.
What are the key project management skills needed to execute a major change in the working culture of an organization?

Innovation has become a primary force driving the growth, performance, and valuation of companies. However, sometimes there is a wide gap between the aspirations of executives to innovate and their ability to execute. Many companies make the mistake of trying to spur innovation by turning to unreliable best practices, and to organisational structures and processes. Moreover, executives who focus on stimulating and supporting innovation by their employees can promote and sustain it with the current talent and resources more effectively than they could by using other incentives. This area focuses on innovation at the individual level and at the group level within organisations.

What are the effects of team innovation and leadership clarity in organisations? A health care case study.
Does socio-cultural context moderate the relationship of leadership with top-management influence on innovation?
What are the effects of leadership style and team process on performance and innovation in functionally heterogeneous teams?
An exploratory study of leadership, organisational culture and organisational innovativeness in a sample of non-profit organisations.
Is there a difference in leadership style between profit and non-organisations, and what are the reasons for this?
How do business leaders see their role in enabling innovation in large organisations?
Transformation or transactional? The role of leadership in supporting individual-level creativity within organisations.
How exactly do we put leadership and innovation together? How does a company lead in a way that generates innovation?
What are the key factors required for a creative organisation? How are barriers to implementing these factors overcome?
Organising for team creativity: Creating an organisational system for harvesting ideas for leadership and innovation.
What is the nature and role of leadership in three ideal types of public management innovation: politically-led, organisational turnarounds and bottom-up innovations?
How is leadership different in the engineering function? An assessment of Airbus UK?
What are the behavioural and personality correlations of transactional and transformational leadership?
What is the relationship between leadership style and creativity? Systematically reviewing the literature.
From managing to enabling innovation: Leaders’ facilitating innovation through cultural change.
The role of leaders in balancing creativity and standardisation in the firm.

Globalisation is a complex trend, encompassing many forces and many effects. Globalisation has revolutionised the global market as Multinational Enterprises renew their strategies to attain competitive edge. These topics evaluate different strategies adopted by business firms to uniquely position themselves in the global market.

The analysis of suitability and applicability of Porter’s Generic Strategies in the light of emerging business trends and an unpredictable operating environment post-pandemic.
Does globalisation have a future in the aftermath of the Coronavirus pandemic?
What is the significance of ICT integration as a business strategy?
How globalisation has broken trade barriers and its impact on trade tariffs: the case of BRIC countries.
What current strategies are in place for businesses to meet dynamic consumer demands?
To what extent is consumer demand shaped by corporate innovation? A comparative study of Apple and Samsung.
Assessing the impact of globalisation on UK businesses operating on both international and local levels.
Does Brexit signal a rollback in globalisation in the UK and Europe?
An examination of empowerment, conflict and corporate vision as factors in developing global business strategies for multinational firms.
What are the transformational strategies adopted by companies in the globalisation era?
How have countries changed their trade policies in the face of new global market challenges?
A study into the FDI strategies used by UK multinational companies: case study of Vodafone.
Investigating the role of strategic alliances in creating global supply chain networks.
Assessing the impact of internationalisation strategies on multinational corporations: case study Tullow Oil.

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International Business Dissertation Topics Ideas and Examples

How to choose a dissertation topic in international business? Choosing international business dissertation topics involves a methodical approach. Start by identifying your personal interests within the field, conduct a literature review to find gaps in existing research. Consult with professors for guidance and narrow down your focus. Ensure your topic is globally relevant, feasible for […]

Table of Contents

How to choose a dissertation topic in international business?

Choosing international business dissertation topics involves a methodical approach. Start by identifying your personal interests within the field, conduct a literature review to find gaps in existing research.

Consult with professors for guidance and narrow down your focus. Ensure your topic is globally relevant, feasible for research, and aligned with your career goals.

Stay updated on current international business trends and seek feedback from mentors. A well-chosen topic should be researchable, reflect your interests, and contribute to the field.

Many students find it difficult to choose the perfect international business dissertation topics for their dissertations. In fact, many students choose a narrow topic for international business research because of the depth and breadth of the field.

Business dissertations , reports, or theses are difficult to write. It is a curiosity among students how to choose a good dissertation topic for international business.

Our goal is to prepare our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to choose research topics internationally. Choosing to judge without delay can be fatal.

What are the topics in an international business course?

Top 5 international business dissertation topics along with topic brief.

Here are the top 5 international business dissertation topics along with brief descriptions:

Brief : Explore how global trade agreements, such as free trade agreements and the World Trade Organization rules, influence international business strategies, market entry decisions, and trade practices.
Brief : Investigate the challenges faced by multinational corporations in managing diverse, cross-cultural teams and the strategies they employ to promote effective communication, collaboration, and performance.
Brief : Examine how companies are integrating sustainability principles into their global supply chain operations. Investigate the adoption of eco-friendly practices, ethical sourcing, and their impact on global supply chains.
Brief : Assess the strategies employed by SMEs to expand into international markets, considering the unique challenges they face, including resource limitations and market entry barriers.
Brief : Explore the digital transformation of global business operations, including the adoption of e-commerce, cloud computing, and data analytics. Analyze the impact on international business strategies, customer engagement, and global competitiveness.

These international business dissertation topics cover a range of contemporary issues and offer opportunities for in-depth research, providing valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of global business and trade.

International Trade and Economics

Impact of trade agreements on international business
Effects of tariffs and trade barriers on global commerce
Role of multinational corporations in fostering international trade
Comparative analysis of trade policies among developed and developing countries
The significance of regional economic integration on global trade patterns
More Business economics dissertation topics Ideas and Examples

Global Marketing Strategies

Cross-cultural marketing strategies for multinational corporations
The influence of social media on international brand management
Adaptation vs. standardization of marketing strategies in different markets
Market entry strategies for emerging economies
The role of cultural intelligence in global marketing campaigns
More Marketing Management Dissertation Topics Examples

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Determinants of FDI inflows in developing countries
The impact of political risk on multinational corporations’ investment decisions
Comparative analysis of FDI policies across different regions
The role of FDI in technology transfer and economic development
FDI spillover effects on local economies in host countries

Global Supply Chain Management

Risks and challenges in global supply chain networks
Strategies for mitigating supply chain disruptions in international business
Sustainability practices in global supply chain management
The role of information technology in enhancing supply chain efficiency
Outsourcing strategies and their impact on global supply chain dynamics
More What are the dissertation topics under supply chain management?

International Finance and Risk Management

Exchange rate risk management strategies for multinational corporations
The impact of financial crises on international business operations
Comparative analysis of financial systems across different countries
Corporate governance practices and their influence on international finance
The role of hedging instruments in managing currency and commodity price risks
More Risk Management Dissertation Topics Ideas examples

International Human Resource Management

Cross-cultural challenges in expatriate assignments
Talent management strategies for global workforce diversity
Comparative analysis of labor laws and regulations across different countries
The role of corporate culture in attracting and retaining international talent
Training and development programs for building global leadership competencies.
More How can you choose best HRM dissertation topics?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Global Business

CSR practices of multinational corporations in developing countries
The impact of CSR initiatives on brand reputation and consumer behavior
Stakeholder engagement strategies in international CSR efforts
Comparative analysis of CSR reporting standards across different regions
The role of NGOs and civil society in shaping corporate responsibility agendas

International Business Ethics and Governance

Ethical dilemmas in cross-border business transactions
Corporate governance mechanisms in multinational corporations
Compliance with international business ethics standards
Bribery and corruption risks in global business operations
The role of cultural differences in ethical decision-making processes

Supply Chain Management

Adoption of blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain transparency and traceability
Resilience strategies for supply chain disruptions: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
Integration of green practices into global supply chain management: challenges and opportunities
The role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in optimizing supply chain operations
Supply chain risk management in the era of geopolitical uncertainty: case studies from various industries

Business Ethics and Corporate Governance

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and shareholder value: exploring the relationship
Ethical leadership in multinational corporations: impact on organizational culture and performance
Whistleblowing policies and their effectiveness in promoting corporate ethics and transparency
Corporate governance mechanisms and their influence on financial performance in emerging markets
Addressing ethical challenges in cross-border mergers and acquisitions: case studies and best practices

Entrepreneurship

The role of government policies in fostering entrepreneurship in developing economies
Entrepreneurial finance and access to capital: challenges faced by startups in international markets
Cross-cultural entrepreneurship: strategies for overcoming cultural barriers in global business ventures
Women entrepreneurship in emerging markets: barriers, opportunities, and policy implications
Corporate entrepreneurship: fostering innovation and intrapreneurship in multinational corporations

Globalization and Impact

Cultural imperialism vs. cultural hybridization: the impact of globalization on indigenous cultures
Economic inequality and globalization: exploring the widening gap between rich and poor nations
Globalization and environmental sustainability: assessing the trade-off between economic growth and ecological preservation
Globalization and labor market dynamics: implications for job creation, wages, and working conditions
The rise of anti-globalization movements: causes, consequences, and policy responses

Sustainable Finance and Investment

Impact investing: aligning financial returns with social and environmental goals
Green bonds and sustainable finance: trends, challenges, and opportunities for investors and issuers
Corporate sustainability reporting: standards, frameworks, and disclosure practices
Socially responsible investing (SRI) in emerging markets: drivers, barriers, and performance implications
The role of financial institutions in promoting sustainable development: case studies from the banking and investment sectors

Work Culture in International Business Dissertation Topics

Cultural diversity and organizational effectiveness: managing multicultural teams in global corporations
Expatriate management practices: challenges and strategies for integrating foreign employees into local work cultures
Work-life balance in multinational corporations: comparing attitudes and policies across different countries
The impact of national culture on leadership styles and employee motivation in global organizations
Remote work and virtual teams: implications for organizational culture and productivity in international business settings

General dissertation topics in international business

Below is the list of best dissertation topics for international business for master’s and undergraduate students:

The Role of Cultural Intelligence in International Negotiations.
Implications of Brexit on International Supply Chain Management.
The Effect of Economic Sanctions on International Trade.
Strategic Alliances in Emerging Markets: Case Studies from Africa.
The Impact of Blockchain Technology on Global Trade Finance.
Greenfield vs. Acquisition: Entry Strategies in Developing Countries.
The Influence of Political Instability on Foreign Direct Investment Decisions.
Cross-Border E-commerce in the European Union: Challenges and Opportunities.
The Role of Ethical Leadership in Multinational Corporations’ Social Responsibility.
Transnational Entrepreneurship: Success Factors in Expanding Startups Globally.
Cultural Adaptation in Global Marketing: A Comparative Study.
The Geopolitical Impact on International Business Strategies in the Arctic Region.
Internationalization of Family-Owned Businesses: A Comparative Analysis.
Human Rights and Corporate Accountability in International Business.
SMEs in Global Value Chains: Challenges and Pathways to Success.
International Business Negotiation Strategies in High-Context Cultures.
Sustainable Tourism Development in Emerging Markets: A Case Study.
The Role of International Trade Agreements in Agricultural Export Growth.
Consumer Behavior in Cross-Border Online Shopping: A Comparative Study.
MNEs’ Strategies in Managing Political Risks in Conflict Zones.
Cross-Border Mergers and Acquisitions in the Pharmaceutical Industry.
The Influence of Geopolitical Tensions on International Financial Markets.
Supply Chain Resilience in Times of Global Health Crises.
SME Internationalization through Crowdfunding Platforms.
The Digitalization of Cross-Border Payment Systems: Implications for Global Finance.
Use the standard approach to business strategy for different businesses
The impact of the coronavirus on the global economy
How Social Media Branding Can Make Businesses More Competitive in the Age of Globalization
How does advertising policy affect economic management around the world?
If accidents happen every day, is the business model of developing driverless cars still valid?
The value of English as a global business language and why Chinese companies are ordering from Africa
What kinds of education and images can create cultural change and conflict in the global classroom of diverse cultures and cultural backgrounds?
The Impact of Different Models of Business-Government Relations on the Process of Economic Development: A Case Study in Emerging Markets.
Look at the impact Brexit will have on UK businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Strategy, structure, relevance, and performance: relations between Kev Lag Luam and the government within the framework of contingency theory.
What is the meaning and process of globalization and how does it affect the way business teams work together?
Global strategy and local use: Exploring how crowdfunding is used in governance in China.
What factors affect the policy choices of many companies? Study the impact of perceived governance on corporate governance.
Does a woman in a leadership position threaten the identity of male subordinates? Study women in such roles.
How safe is it to release encrypted chat information of business owners on WhatsApp? Are there ways to protect user privacy?
Exploring the relationship between cooperation and marketing in the business sector: a case study of the partnership with Qatar Airways.
What are the business strategies and key advantages of financial institutions in the global environment?
How is AI innovation threatening the jobs of workers in labor-intensive industries like Amazon warehouses?
Will the business model of self-driving cars survive in the reality of everyday situations?
What effects will the consumers’ increasing use of the online channel for fashion shopping have on the strategies used by UK clothing retailers?
Can CSR dampen the mood of share markets and investment prospects?

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Business Dissertation Topics

Published by Owen Ingram at January 5th, 2023 , Revised On April 16, 2024

Introduction

As a business student, you will study various aspects of conducting business. From handling human resources to managing the marketing and finances, you will study them all. However, what is essential is to understand how you will put your learning into practice.

That is when the real challenge starts. You might have aced your quizzes and assignments and stood out in your class, but if you cannot implement your learning in your practical life, your academic success means nothing.

Thus, to help you understand the real-life scenario, the dissertation can be a great starting point. Dissertations help you understand the concepts, frameworks, and models of business in great depth.

Choose a topic for your dissertation that will interest you and help you in your professional life. Thus, to help you fulfil your academic condition and choose an appropriate dissertation topic, here is a list of topics that are recent and relevant.

To help you get started with brainstorming for business topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your business dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD qualified writers of our team , so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You can also start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the problem, research question , aim and objectives, literature review , along the proposed methodology of research to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

Check our example dissertation to get an idea of how to structure your dissertation .

You can review step by step guide on how to write your dissertation here.

So, without further ado, here’s a list of business dissertation topics that will help you stand out in your class.

International Development Dissertation Topics
Cooperate Governance Dissertation Topics
Business Intelligence Dissertation Topics
Business Information Technology Dissertation Topics
International Business Dissertation Topics
Business Management Dissertation Topics
Business Psychology Dissertation Topics
Business Law Dissertation Topics
Project Management Dissertation Topics
HRM Dissertation Topics
Management Dissertation Topics
Operations Management Dissertation Topics

2024 Business Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: an evaluation of the impact of business ethics on the moral obligations associated with business deals of corporations.

Research Aim: The research aims to conduct an evaluation of the impact of business ethics on the moral obligations associated with business deals of corporations

Objectives:

To analyse the importance of ethics for the shareholders of a business.
To evaluate the link between business ethics and successful business deals.
To investigate the impact of business ethics on the moral obligations of corporations while executing business deals

Topic 2: The impact of AI-based tools on business decision making and overall organisational profitability.

Research Aim: The research aims to analyse the impact of AI-based tools on business decision making and overall organisational profitability.

To analyse the impact of AI tools on the strategic management of the business.
To evaluate the factors impacting business decision making and profitability.
To investigate the impact of AI tools on business decision making and overall organisational profitability.

Topic 3: How does the HRM function impact the business health of organisations?

Research Aim: The research aims to understand how the HRM function impacts the business health of organisations.

To analyse the role of the HRL function of organisations.
To analyse the concept of business health and how it is measured.
To examine the impact of HRM on the business health and wellbeing of the organisations.

Topic 4: The impact of corporate governance on firm performance and internationalisation.

Research Aim: The research aims to examine the impact of corporate governance on firm performance and internationalisation.

To critically analyse the impact of corporate governance on brand image and equity.
To investigate the impact of firm performance on the decisions to internationalise.
To investigate how corporate governance impacts firm performance and internationalisation.

Topic 5: An assessment of the impact of materials management on production efficiency and cost optimisation of business

Research Aim: The research aims to examine the impact of materials management on production efficiency and cost optimisation of business

To investigate the impact of materials management in the production business
To analyse the factors impacting production efficiency and cost minimisation of business.
To evaluate how materials management impacts production efficiency and cost optimisation of business

Business Dissertation Topics for 2023

Topic 1: impact of digital business on the economic growth of the country: a case study of xyz country.

Research Aim: This research will focus on the significance of digital business during the pandemic and its impacts, not the country’s economic growth. It is a detailed view of the future that need to be digitalised.

Topic 2: Brand Marketing through social media

Research Aim: This research aims to focus on the importance of Brand Marketing through social media by addressing various current strategies used in brand marketing.

Topic 3: Impacts of social media on customer behaviour

Research Aim: This research aims to measure social media’s impacts on customer behaviour and address various strategies that are effective to attract customers through social media.

Topic 4: What factors influence the consumer's buying decisions?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify factors that influence the consumer’s buying decisions

Topic 5: Black Friday sale strategy to drive sales

Research Aim: This research aims to identify how the Black Friday sale strategy effectively drives sales. How can huge discounts benefit sellers?

Topic 6: The role of Influencer Marketing in increasing sale

Research Aim: Influencer Marketers impact the customer’s perception. This research aims to the role of influencer marketing in increasing sales.

Topic 7: Impact of E-marketing on consumer purchase decision: the case of the luxury industry in the UK

Research Aim: This research aims to measure E-marketing’s impact on consumer purchase decisions in the U.K luxury industry.

Topic 8: Analysis of the customer-centric marketing strategies in attaining competitive advantage for the firm and sustaining business success

Research Aim: This research focuses on attaining customer-centric marketing strategies in a competitive advantage for the firm and sustaining business success.

Topic 9: Traditional vs. digital marketing: a comparative study of the last ten years

Research Aim: This research aims to conduct a comparative study of traditional vs. digital marketing in the last ten years.

Topic 10: The impact of relationship marketing on customer loyalty: an analysis of the Honda motor

Research Aim: This research aims to assess the impact of relationship marketing on customer loyalty. An analysis of the Honda motor will be conducted as the base of the research.

Topic 11: The importance of search Engines in e-commerce

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the importance of search engines in e-commerce.

Topic 12: E-Commerce company's advertising strategy-critical analysis

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the importance of an E-Commerce company’s advertising strategy.

Topic 13: Importance of customer retention in E-commerce

Research Aim: This research aims to measure the importance of customer retention in E-commerce.

Topic 14: Importance of brand loyalty in internet marketing

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the importance of brand loyalty in internet marketing.

Business Dissertation Topics for 2022

Topic 1: assessing how the regional differences between countries influence the business strategies of multinational companies.

Research Aim: There regional differences and conflicts between countries have directly affected the trade activities. Therefore, this research will identify a highly sensitive issue by analysing how regional differences between countries impact the overall business strategies of multinational companies.

Topic 2: How corporate social responsibility (CSR) affects customer loyalty: A case study of the UK petroleum industry

Research Aim: Corporate social responsibility has become an important phenomenon as it directly impacts the brand image of the company. Therefore, the main purpose of the research is to analyse how CSR activities influence customer perception, which in return impacts customer loyalty. The focus of the research will be the UK petroleum industry.

Topic 3: Assessing the leadership styles of a non-profit organisation and how it impacts the overall business operations

Research Aim: Leadership has always been a significant aspect of any organisation as it has a drastic impact on the overall business processes. Many researchers have focused on identifying the best leadership style for MNC’s and SME’s; however, few have focused on non-profit organisations. Therefore, the main purpose of the research is to assess the most effective leadership styles that should be practised by non-profit organisations and how it affects the overall operations.

Topic 4: Examining the impact of global business negotiations on cross border mergers and acquisitions

Research Aim: The main aim of the research is to analyse the effect of international business negotiations on cross border mergers. Due to intense competition, many companies are going for mergers and acquisitions to enhance their market share. Therefore, this research will explore the aspect of global business negotiations in mergers and acquisitions between two different companies of two different countries.

Topic 5: Analysing the impact of forwarding and backward integration on business performance and sustainability

Research Aim: To gain a competitive advantage, firms have devised various supply chain strategies that help them improve their business performance. One such strategy is forward and backward integration. Therefore this research will be focusing on analysing the impact of both forward and backward integration on business performance and sustainability.

Topic C1: The economic suffering due to the plague of COVID-19

Research Aim: The research must assess the disruption that has been created by the spread of COVID-19 in the world. This must include the global lockdown of the countries and the shutting of industries, resulting in soaring unemployment rates and a dramatic decline in economic statistics. The research aims to look at the economic consequences generated by the outbreak of COVID-19 in general.

Topic C2: The major sufferings in the economy as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak

Research Aim: The research must assess the reasons behind the rising suffering in the specific business sectors and industries, for instance, the supply chain is suffering because China has become the manufacturing hub, which has brought disruption in the supply chain of the whole industry due to complete lockdown in the country. The research aims to study majorly affected regions such as the entertainment sector, tourism industry, restaurant sector etc.

Topic C3: Expecting changes in the economic statistics by the outbreak of COVID-19

Research Aim: The recent expected changes by the professionals about the impact of COVID-19 on the global economic statistics must be discussed in the research, such as the estimated growth rates of the world and China were predicted to be 0% and 1.6%, respectively, for the year 2020 by the Ethan Harris, head of global economic research in the Bank of America according to his recent interview. Similarly, articles from other professionals must be included in the research to focus on the effects of an outbreak on the economy.

Topic C4: The major regions and business industries affected by the spread of COVID-19

Research Aim: The research would assess the regions (cities and countries) which are being affected by the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 and the major impacted business industries such as the food industries like the restaurants are completely locked down after the outbreak of the virus and the people that were engaged in those industries are unemployed now. The research aims to focus on such industries and the impact of their lowered productivity on the economy.

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Business Strategy and Globalisation Dissertation Topics

Globalisation can be defined as the process that assists organisations and businesses in spreading their operations and influence on an international scale to increase their profit levels.

According to Financial Times Lexicon, it is “a process by which national and regional economies, societies, and cultures have become integrated through the global network of trade, communication, immigration and transportation.”

It will not be wrong to say that globalisation is the integration of policymaking, cultures, markets, industries, and economics around the globe.

In recent times, the concept of globalization has been expanded to include a broader range of activities and areas such as biological, political, social, cultural, technological, climate and media factors, even though initially it primarily focused on the economies, capital flows, foreign direct investment, and trade.

Some recent topics with respect to globalisation and business strategy are listed below:

Topic 6: Why organisations and businesses must change their business strategies in the era of globalisation

Research Aim: Any and every company that does strategies based on globalisation will lose out on huge business opportunities. Thus, this research will focus on reasons as to why companies should plan for globalisation related strategies.

Topic 7: Business management framework and globalisation – An empirical study

Research Aim: This research will talk about a successful business management framework for companies operating in the era of globalisation.

Topic 8: Global business strategy for MNCs and the role of corporate vision, conflicts, and empowerment

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various business strategies available for MNCs and the role their vision, conflict management, and empowerment play in building these strategies.

Topic 9: Exploring the drivers of Chinese business expansion strategy into Africa and other developing countries

Research Aim: This research will explore the various factors that drive Chinese business expansion into Africa and other developing countries.

Topic 10: An investigation into the process of offshore outsourcing of customer services to determine causes of poor customer satisfaction

Research Aim: This research will assess customer services’ offshoring process, which in turn impacts customer satisfaction.

Topic 11: Cross border management strategy – A research study focusing on foreign business organisations in Malaysia

Research Aim: This research will talk about cross border management strategies and specifically about foreign businesses operating in Malaysia.

Topic 12: An investigation into the impact of globalisation on UK businesses' operation on both a national and international scale.

Research Aim: This research will study the impact of globalisation on UK businesses. The impact on both national and international scales will be assessed.

Topic 13: How banks can implement business strategies in light of globalisation to improve connectivity with clients – A case of Barclays Plc

Research Aim: This research will focus on the globalisation of banks. Barclays PLC will be used as a case study for this research.

Topic 14: A study to examine the factors affecting the MNC’s choice of alliances and entry modes – The case of Sri Lanka

Research Aim: This study will discuss the various factors that impact the MNC’s choice of alliances and entry modes. Sri Lanka will be used as a case study for this research.

Topic 15: Performance, e-business strategies, and globalisation – Examining the factors affecting social media strategy of business organisations in the UK

Research Aim: This research will discuss the factors that impact the performance, e-business strategies, and globalisation of UK based businesses. The study will also focus on factors impacting the social media strategy of these organisations.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

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Strategic Change Management Dissertation Topics

Change management can be defined as the management of “change and development” within a business organisation. Dealing with the impact of change is of critical importance. Strategic change management helps managers deal with change from the perspective of the individual and an organisation.

An important aspect of this concept is the organisational tools that can help achieve successful transitions to adopt change. Furthermore, business organisations can effectively and quickly implement change to meet changing market requirements as part of the strategic change management process.

Topic 16: An investigation into the implementation of strategic change management in the UK retail sector

Research Aim: This research will analyse and investigate how the UK retail sector changes its business processes to stay relevant in the market.

Topic 17: Examining the factors affecting organisational changes from the perspective of employees – The case of HSBC

Research Aim: This research will focus on organisational changes from the perspective of employees. HSBC will be studied as a case in this research.

Topic 18: Use of a proprietary change management system with respect to transformational change and stakeholder communication

Research Aim: This research will discuss a proprietary change management system that helps with transformational change and stakeholder communication.

Topic 19: The role of feedback in organisational culture change: A case study of any multinational company

Research Aim: This research will talk assess the role of feedback, be it from employees or customers, in bringing and managing organisational cultural change. This study will be based on a company of your choosing.

Topic 20: Strategic management of change in Asian countries – The case of Singapore

Research Aim: This study will talk about strategic change management in Asian countries. Singapore will be the chosen country for the purpose of this study.

Topic 21: To establish the importance of measuring stress levels of employees to successfully implement change

Research Aim: This research will talk about the importance of employee stress measurement in order to implement change successfully.

Topic 22: The role of senior management of business organisations in developing a framework that connects unexpected results and strategic plans

Research Aim: This study will talk about the role of senior management of businesses in developing a framework that will help the company bring together strategic plans and unexpected positive results.

Topic 23: Differences in working styles of Saudi project managers and foreign project managers

Research Aim: This research will help understand the different working styles of Saudi project managers and foreign project managers.

Topic 24: Intervention, project management, and change management – The banking sector in the UK

Research Aim: This research will talk about the change management and implementation barriers that companies are unable to implement change effectively.

International Human Resource Management Dissertation Topics

International Human Resource Management is a system that is designed to improve employee performance at national and international levels. The IHRM function primarily focuses on the policies developed to ensure efficient personnel management within organisations at an international level.

Various activities such as training and development, skills enhancement, employee recruitment, motivational programmes, bonuses and rewards systems, and performance appraisal are implemented to help businesses increase their work output.

Topic 25: Managing employees’ performance in non-profit organisations – A case study of any non-profit organisation

Research Aim: This research will help non-profit organisations understand how they can manage and monitor employee performance even when operating at an international level.

Topic 26: Developing an effective human resource management system in large multinational companies – The recommended practices and strategies

Research Aim: This research will help multinational companies develop an effective human resource management system.

Topic 27: Examining the impact of human resource professionals and human resource management in the new global economy

Research Aim: This study will help in understanding the impact of human resource professionals and will also shed light on human resource management in the new globalized economy.

Topic 28: Can human resource development and training help to remedy poor selection processes

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand whether resource development and training will lead to better selection processes or not.

Topic 29: The causes and forms of deviance in business and non-profit organisations

Research Aim: This research will help understand the causes and forms of deviance in business and non-profit organisations.

Topic 30: Investigating the effects of organisational transition on employees’ performance in large diversified companies.

Research Aim: This research will investigate the impact of organisational transition on the performance of employees in multinationals.

Topic 31: Configuration of human resource management system in multinational companies

Research Aim: This research will help understand how the human resource management system in multinationals is configured.

Topic 32: Learning from small businesses in the UK – How firm performance is associated with strategic human resource management.

Research Aim: This research will understand how firm performance in small businesses is linked with strategic human resource management and its benefits and limitations.

Topic 33: Human resource challenges for UK construction industry – Knowledge transfer and retention

Research Aim: This research will help understand human resource challenges for the UK construction industry, particularly knowledge transfer and employee retention.

Topic 34: The role of strategic human resource management in the public sector – The recommended practices and policies

Research Aim: This research will help understand the role of strategic human resource management in the public sector.

Information Technology Management Dissertation Topics

The process of managing all information technology resources of a business organisation is known as “information technology management”. It should be noted that the information technology resources of an organisation are usually managed in accordance with the priorities, policies, and requirements as set out by the business.

Physical investments, including the staff, data centre facilities, networks, data storage databases, software, and computer hardware, are examples of information technology resources required to be managed within a company.

This is done using simple management skills such as organizing and controlling, change management, and budgeting.

Topic 35: Developing a framework for the strategic management of information technology

Research Aim: This research will help companies build a sustainable framework for the strategic management of the information technology sector.

Topic 36: Role of information technology management in large diversified business organisations.

Research Aim: This research will help in understanding the role of information technology management in large businesses.

Topic 37: Analysing the issues associated with the implementation of Information technology in new technology-based firms.

Research Aim: This study will help in assessing issues associated with the implementation of information technology in technology firms.

Topic 38: Recommended practices to introduce and implement information systems in business organisations.

Research Aim: This study will help companies introduce and implement information systems in organisations.

Topic 39: How business organisations can gain a competitive advantage through social media branding in a fast-paced electronics industry?

Research Aim: This study is extremely relevant for this day and age as it focuses on gaining a competitive advantage through social media for the electronics industry.

Topic 40: The role of strategic alliances, acquisitions and mergers in building eCommerce business giants – A case study of any large scale and established virtual company.

Research Aim: This research will focus on understanding the role of strategic alliances, acquisitions, and mergers for e-commerce business giants. You can choose a large scale company of your choice for this study.

Topic 41: How e-HR system can help UK energy companies to improve their efficiency?

Research Aim: Electronic-human resource management systems are a thing of today. This research will focus on implementing e-HR in UK based energy companies.

Topic 42: Identifying the most influential factors affecting information technology management in the UK construction industry.

Research Aim: This research will identify factors that influence information technology management in the UK construction industry.

Topic 43: Investigating the Benefits and Limitations of Implementing Information Technology in the UK Fashion Industry.

Research Aim: This research will help explore the benefits and limitations of implementing information technology in the UK fashion sector.

Topic 44: To investigate the important elements of information technology management.

Research Aim: This research will focus on the essential factors of information technology management.

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Organisational Leadership Dissertation Topics

Business leaders are the management staff that provides operational oversights, inspiration and other administrative services. It is the duty of business leaders to help prioritise organisational objectives and corporate vision for other team members. Here are some interesting topics related to organizational leadership.

Topic 45: Examining the effects of leadership and clarity of vision on business organisations.

Research Aim: This research will understand the impact of leadership on businesses and how having a clear business vision helps organisations.

Topic 46: The impact of organisational culture and leadership behaviours on practices of knowledge management in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Research Aim: This research will examine the impact of organisational culture and leadership behaviours on knowledge management in SMEs.

Topic 47: Examining the impact of leadership on organisational performance of small enterprises in Saudi Arabia.

Research Aim: This research will study the impact of business leadership on the organisational performance of small businesses in Saudi Arabia.

Topic 48: Evaluating the impact of leadership on organisational performance – A case study of any large and diversified firm.

Research Aim: This research will help evaluate the impact of leadership on organisational performance. You can choose a company of your choice for this research.

Topic 49: Role of organisational leadership in developing countries – A case study of any home-grown company.

Research Aim: This study will evaluate the role of organisational leadership in developing countries.

Topic 50: Traits of prevention-oriented and charismatic leader for the successful operation of medium-sized enterprises.

Research Aim: This research will examine the various traits of leadership that are required for successful business operations.

Topic 51: Organisational leadership in multicultural environment of Saudi Arabia.

Research Aim: This research will focus on organisational leadership in a multicultural environment in Saudi Arabia.

Topic 52: Distinguishing leadership from management to achieve corporate strategies.

Research Aim: This research will analyse and compare leadership and management that companies achieve corporate strategies.

Topic 53: Investigating the differences between individual charismatic leadership and traditional organisational leadership.

Research Aim: This research will help to investigate the differences between charismatic leadership and traditional leadership.

Topic 54: How leadership decisions to implement new business strategies can be influenced by organisational culture – A case study of Nokia.

Research Aim: This research will assess how leadership decisions help in implementing new business strategies and how they are influenced by organisational culture. This study will be based on Nokia.

International Business Strategy Dissertation Topics

International business can be defined as the transactions that occur across country borders as a result of trade. For example, a UK based company selling its products in another country is involved in international business.

Another definition of international business is the exchange/trade of goods or products among businesses and individuals in multiple countries.

However, it is worth noting that all commercial transactions, including transportations, logistics, investments, sales, governmental and private that occur as a result of trade between two different regions are the elements of International Business.

Here are some interesting topics based on international business strategy:

Topic 55: Investigating the patterns of foreign direct investment in new global economies

Research Aim: This research will help outline foreign direct investment patterns in new global economies.

Topic 56: The future of the bamboo industry in Europe – Opportunities and challenges

Research Aim: This research will understand the bamboo industry in Europe, its opportunities, and the challenges the industry has to face.

Topic 57: How Telenor internationalised in Asia – The case of Pakistan

Research Aim: This research will focus on Telenor expanding its operations in Asia. International business strategies undertaken by the company will be discussed.

Topic 58: Internationalisation opportunities for Chinese multinational companies – The link between international business development and “knowledge and learning”

Research Aim: This research will explore the internationalisation opportunities for Chinese multinational companies, i.e. the link between international business development and knowledge will be studied.

Topic 59: Exploring strategic alternatives in Research & Development through the exploitation of opportunities and capabilities

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various strategic alternatives in research and development by exploring various opportunities and capabilities.

Topic 60: The role of new theoretical models with respect to global politics and business

Research Aim: This research will understand the role of new theoretical models by considering global politics and businesses.

Topic 61: The impact of corporate governance on performance and internationalisation of business organisation

Research Aim: This research will focus on the impact of corporate governance on the performance and internationalisation of business organisations.

Topic 62: Examining the factors that could motivate large multinational corporations to adapt internationalisation strategy

Research Aim: This research will analyse the factors that motivate multinationals to adapt to internationalization strategies.

Topic 63: The growing importance of social media strategies in the global business environment – Internationalisation, e-business plans and performance of firms

Research Aim: This research will understand the importance of social media strategy in the global business environment, i.e. firm performance, e-business plans, etc.

Topic 64: Investigating “foreign direct investment” strategies of large and diversified companies in developing economies – The case of India

Research Aim: This research will examine foreign direct investment strategies of huge diversified businesses based in India.

Corporate Social Responsibility Dissertation Topics

The concept of corporate social responsibility has gained tremendous importance, thanks to growing social and environmental concerns that need to be integrated into business operations.

CSR allows business organisations to achieve a balance of social, environmental, and economic obligations and addresses stakeholders and shareholders’ needs.

Implementing CSR amongst small and medium-sized enterprises can prove to be an extremely daunting task primarily because it requires strategies to be designed in a manner where the respective capabilities and needs of these businesses are considered, but the profitability of the company is not adversely impacted.

Here are some relevant CSR dissertation topics for you to choose from:

Topic 65: Investigating the role of corporate social responsibilities in brand equity

Research Aim: This research will analyse how brand equity is built with the help of corporate social responsibility.

Topic 66: How values are associated with perceptions of corporate social responsibility

Research Aim: This research will talk about how values and perceptions are associated with corporate social responsibility and how businesses view it.

Topic 67: Effects of CSR on the performance of business organisations in transitional economies

Research Aim: This study will examine how CSR impacts businesses’ performance operating in transitional economies.

Topic 68: Investigating performance and strategic plans of UK firms with respect to corporate social responsibility

Research Aim: This research will investigate the performance and strategic plans of UK firms with regard to their respective corporate social responsibility.

Topic 69: To what extent do international certifiable management regulations influence business practices

This research will aim to understand the extent to which international certifiable management regulations impact business practices.

Topic 70: Corporate social responsibility in developing countries – The case of the Chinese construction industry

Research Aim: This research will talk about corporate social responsibility in developing countries and focus on the Chinese construction industry.

Topic 71: Corporate social responsibility and societal expectations – A case of any multinational corporation

Research Aim: This research will understand the expectations associated with corporate social responsibilities. A multinational will be chosen for this study.

Topic 72: How corporate social responsibility affect business practices of the UK energy sector

Research Aim: This research will help understand how corporate social responsibility impacts business practices in the UK energy sector.

Topic 73: The role of CSR on international corporate governance theories and practices

Research Aim: This research will examine the role of CSR in international corporate governance theories and practices.

Topic 74: Financial performance of selected European corporations in light of corporate social responsibility

Research Aim: This research will understand how the financial performance of European businesses is impacted by corporate social responsibility.

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Organisational Behaviour Dissertation Topics

Organisational behaviour can be defined as how individuals interact with larger groups to create more efficient businesses. The theories of organisational behaviour can help to achieve maximum output from individual members of a team. Here are some interesting topics to help you pick an appropriate dissertation topic on organisational behaviour.

Topic 75: Investigating the impact of values and beliefs on employees’ performance and commitment at the workplace

Research Aim: This research will investigate the impact of beliefs and values on employees’ performance and commitment at the workplace.

Topic 76: Studying the impact of culture on organisational behaviour – The case of the Indian telecommunication industry

Research Aim: This research will help study the impact of culture on organisational behaviour. The Indian telecommunication industry will be the focus of this research.

Topic 77: Examining decision-making process in multinational corporations in light of organisational behaviour and choice

Research Aim: This research will help examine the decision making process in multinationals with respect to organisational behaviour and choice.

Topic 78: Organisational citizenship behaviour and organisational commitment, psychological contract and conflict at Oxford University

Research Aim: This research will help understand organisational citizenship behaviour, organisational commitment, and conflict at Oxford University.

Topic 79: Exploring the relationship between a sense of belongingness and development of trust with managerial behaviour in large and diversified organisations

Research Aim: This research will help in understanding the relationship between trust and a sense of belongingness in huge, multicultural organisations.

Topic 80: Investigating causes of unethical actions of individuals in the workplace – Analysing organisational standards, practices, ethical behaviour

Research Aim: This study will explore causes that lead to unethical actions at workplaces. The research will analyse the organisational standards, practices, and ethical behaviour.

Topic 81: Developing organisational citizenship behaviour and organisational culture in the pre-inauguration stages – The case of the UK hotel industry

Research Aim: This research will help develop organisational citizenship behaviour and organisational culture in the early days of businesses. The UK hotel industry will be the main focus of this research.

Topic 82: Comparing employees’ attitudes and organisational cultural values in the Indian agricultural sector

Research Aim: This research will compare employee attitude and organisational cultural values in the Indian agricultural sector.

Topic 83: This study will explore the relationship between employee performance and corporate objectives.

Research Aim: The research will take into consideration the role of shared values and standards.

Topic 84: Introducing, Implementing, and Managing Change in a Multinational – Assessing the Conflicts associated with it

Research Aim: This research will study global change management as to how multinationals introduce, implement and manage change globally.

Important Notes:

As a student of business looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing business theories – i.e., to add value and interest in your research topic.

The field of business is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering , construction , law , and even healthcare . That is why creating a business dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field is imperative.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic; it is the basis of your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation , as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the very initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best business dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Take a look at some of our sample business dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Business Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

A Title Page
Acknowledgements
Declaration
Abstract: A summary of the research completed
Table of Contents
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International business and decentralized finance

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Published: 15 May 2024

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Campbell R. Harvey 1 &
Daniel Rabetti 2

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Over the last decade, the green shoots of a new economic order have emerged as decentralized technologies challenge traditional financial systems. Decentralized finance (DeFi) holds the potential to transform international business (IB) by offering accessible financial services across borders, disrupting traditional intermediaries, and promoting financial inclusion. While traditional fintech has challenged banks, DeFi operates outside legacy systems, leveraging blockchain technology and smart contracting to introduce a new range of products and services that provide first-movers with an upper hand to both expand their business across the globe as well realize cost savings on existing business. Despite offering advantages like efficiency, transparency, and security, DeFi faces regulatory uncertainties and scalability, adoption, and stability concerns. Our study explores how DeFi can seamlessly integrate into the IB space while addressing these challenges. In addition to offering insights for investors, multinational firms, and regulators, we also lay the groundwork for future IB research in the fintech domain. As the DeFi innovation unfolds, understanding and harnessing its potential can empower stakeholders to engage responsibly and effectively in this transformative landscape.

Plain language summary

In the world of finance, a technological transformation is underway. Conventional banking systems, with their tangible branches and centralized operations, are being contested by a new contender: decentralized finance, or DeFi. Unlike traditional finance, DeFi does not depend on central financial intermediaries (middlemen like banks, brokers, or exchanges). Instead, it functions on a technology named blockchain, which permits secure and transparent transactions across a distributed network of computers.

There is, however, a knowledge gap in comprehending how DeFi can alter international business, considering its potential to cut costs, enhance efficiency, and provide unparalleled financial inclusion. This research investigates the repercussions of DeFi's emergence, scrutinizing its benefits, challenges, and risks, and offering insights for investors, companies, and regulators navigating this new frontier.

This research scrutinizes the DeFi landscape, concentrating on its effect on international business. Contrary to popular perceptions, the findings reveal that DeFi is not solely about trading cryptocurrencies. It covers a broad array of applications, from lending and borrowing platforms to yield farming, where users can earn rewards by providing liquidity to the system. The research emphasizes that DeFi has the potential to offer more inclusive financial services, especially in developing economies, by leveraging its decentralized nature to facilitate cross-border activities and reduce dependence on centralized financial and political systems.

The researchers deduce that DeFi signifies a significant progression in the integration of financial markets, with the potential to foster entrepreneurial opportunities and contribute to economic growth globally. The research underscores the importance of understanding DeFi's role in international business and encourages additional research into its long-term implications.

The potential impact of DeFi is immense. It could democratize access to financial services, making them accessible to anyone with an Internet connection, regardless of location or economic status. This could result in greater economic empowerment and participation in the global economy, particularly for those in underserved regions. As DeFi continues to evolve, it may redefine the very nature of financial transactions and international business as we understand it.

This text was initially drafted using artificial intelligence, then edited by the author(s) to ensure accuracy .

Au cours de la dernière décennie, les technologies décentralisées remettant en cause les systèmes financiers traditionnels ont fait naître les germes d'un nouvel ordre économique. La finance décentralisée ( Decentralized finance – DeFi) a le potentiel de transformer les affaires internationales ( International Business – IB) en offrant des services financiers accessibles au-delà des frontières, en perturbant les intermédiaires traditionnels et en favorisant l'inclusion financière. Alors que la fintech traditionnelle a défié les banques, la DeFi opère en dehors des systèmes en place en s'appuyant sur la technologie blockchain et les contrats intelligents pour introduire une nouvelle gamme de produits et de services, laquelle apporte aux premiers arrivés une longueur d'avance pour à la fois développer leurs activités à travers le monde et réaliser des économies de coûts sur les activités existantes. Bien qu'elle offre des avantages tels que l'efficience, la transparence et la sécurité, la DeFi est confrontée à des incertitudes réglementaires et à des problèmes de scalabilité, d'adoption et de stabilité. Notre recherche explore la manière dont la DeFi peut s'intégrer de manière harmonieuse dans l'espace d’IB tout en relevant ces défis. En plus d'offrir des renseignements aux investisseurs, aux entreprises multinationales et aux régulateurs, nous posons également les bases d'une future recherche en IB dans le domaine de la fintech. À mesure que l'innovation de DeFi se développe, la compréhension et l'exploitation de son potentiel peuvent permettre aux parties prenantes de s'engager de manière responsable et efficace dans ce paysage en pleine transformation.

Durante la última década, han surgido señales esperanzadoras de un nuevo orden económico a medida que las tecnologías descentralizadas desafían a los sistemas financieros tradicionales. Las finanzas descentralizadas (DeFi por sus iniciales en inglés) tienen el potencial de transformar los negocios internacionales al ofrecer servicios financieros más accesibles a través de las fronteras, trastocando a los intermediarios tradicionales y promover la inclusión financiera. Mientras que la tecnología financiera tradicional ha desafiado a los bancos, las finanzas descentralizadas operan fuera de los sistemas heredados, aprovechando la tecnología blockchain y la contratación inteligente para introducir una nueva gama de productos y servicios que proporcionan a los primeros en moverse una ventaja tanto para expandir su negocio en todo el mundo como para obtener ahorros de costos en los negocios existentes. A pesar de ofrecer ventajas como la eficiencia, la transparencia y la seguridad, las finanzas descentralizadas se enfrentan a incertidumbres regulatorias y a problemas de escalabilidad, adopción y estabilidad. Nuestro estudio explora cómo las finanzas descentralizadas pueden integrarse sin problemas en el espacio de negocios internacionales mientras aborda estos desafíos. Además de ofrecer información a los inversores, las empresas multinacionales y los reguladores, también sentamos las bases para futuras investigaciones de negocios internacionales en el ámbito de la tecnología financiera. A medida que se desarrolla la innovación de las finanzas descentralizadas, comprender y aprovechar su potencial puede empoderar a los grupos de interés para que se involucren de manera responsable y efectiva en este panorama transformador.

Ao longo da última década, sinais iniciais de uma nova ordem econômica surgiram enquanto tecnologias descentralizadas desafiavam sistemas financeiros tradicionais. Finanças descentralizadas (DeFi) têm o potencial de transformar negócios internacionais (IB), oferecendo serviços financeiros acessíveis além fronteiras, conturbando intermediários tradicionais e promovendo a inclusão financeira. Embora as fintech tradicionais tenham desafiado bancos, DeFi opera fora de sistemas existentes, aproveitando a tecnologia blockchain e contratos inteligentes para introduzir uma nova gama de produtos e serviços que fornecem a pioneiros uma vantagem para expandir seus negócios em todo o mundo, bem como obter redução de custos em negócios existentes. Apesar de oferecer vantagens como eficiência, transparência e segurança, DeFi enfrenta incertezas regulatórias e preocupações em relação à sua escalabilidade, adoção e estabilidade. Nosso estudo explora como DeFi pode se integrar perfeitamente ao espaço de IB ao mesmo tempo em que aborda esses desafios. Além de oferecer insights para investidores, empresas multinacionais e reguladores, também lançamos bases para futuras pesquisas em IB no domínio das fintech. À medida que a inovação DeFi se desenvolve, a compreensão e o aproveitamento do seu potencial podem capacitar stakeholders a envolverem-se de forma responsável e eficaz neste cenário transformador.

在过去的十年中, 随着去中心化技术挑战传统金融体系, 新经济秩序的绿芽已经出现。去中心化金融 (DeFi) 有潜力通过提供便捷的跨境金融服务、颠覆传统中介机构和促进金融包容性改变国际商业 (IB)。尽管传统金融科技对银行提出了挑战, DeFi 运作于遗留系统之外, 利用区块链技术和智能合约推出一系列新的产品和服务, 为先行者提供优势, 在全球范围内扩展业务并实现关于现有业务的成本节约。尽管 DeFi 具有效率、透明度和安全性等优势, 它仍面临着监管不确定性以及可扩展性、采用和稳定性问题。我们的研究探讨了 DeFi在应对这些挑战的同时如何无缝融入 IB 空间。除了为投资者、跨国公司和监管机构提供见解外, 我们还为未来金融科技领域的IB研究奠定了基础。随着 DeFi 创新的展开, 了解和利用其潜力可以使利益相关者能够负责任地、有效地参与这一变革。

Centralized and Decentralized Finance: Coexistence or Convergence?

Breaking the chains of traditional finance: A taxonomy of decentralized finance business models

DeFi and Start-Ups: Revolution in Finance

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

“I believe that DeFi will create a new, easy-to-use and globally accessible financial system for the world.” – Vitalik Buterin (Ethereum Founder). Footnote 1

Introduction

Decentralized finance (DeFi) stands poised to disrupt international business (IB) by providing accessible and efficient financial services across borders whose far-reaching institutional implications should be analyzed. DeFi platforms offer the potential for financial inclusion by eliminating traditional intermediaries, enabling individuals in underserved regions to participate in global economic activities. Additionally, decentralized exchanges, smart contracts, and novel funding avenues may empower businesses’ and entrepreneurs’ ability to strategically compete globally. However, regulatory uncertainties and the need for robust security and compliance measures present challenges. Our study lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of how DeFi can seamlessly integrate into the international business landscape in harmony with the growing need for IB research on current technological developments (Buckley et al. 2017 ; Meyer et al. 2023 ; Tung, 2023 ).

New financial technologies have provided some nascent competition to our global banking system (John et al. 2022 ; Makarov & Schoar, 2022b ). Fintech takes many forms, including electronic banking, domestic and cross-border payment mechanisms, and peer-to-peer lending. For example, within two and a half years of its introduction, over 140 million individuals (roughly 80% of the adult population) and 13 million businesses have utilized the Pix system in Brazil (IMF, 2023 ). Fintech innovations have reduced costs and increased efficiency, which is good for consumers and for economic growth. Further, they have forced traditional banks to innovate. However, these new financial technologies have one commonality: they use the traditional financial infrastructure. As such, there is a limit as to how much costs can be reduced, and the limitation is directly related to the legacy infrastructure.

While fintech companies are disrupting traditional banks, another wave of disruption is on the horizon: decentralized finance or just DeFi. In contrast to most fintech, DeFi does not use legacy infrastructure. All transactions appear in a shared ledger called a blockchain. Thousands of identical copies of this immutable ledger reside on computers worldwide, providing a fully automatic back office. DeFi offers unprecedented efficiency, financial inclusion (you do not need a bank account), and heightened security. It presents a new frontier for international business.

In its simplest form, DeFi is a peer-to-peer method of exchange often enabled by algorithms. For example, suppose you hold asset A – which might be in a U.S. dollar pegged stablecoin – and want to purchase asset B. In a decentralized exchange (DEX), an algorithm will facilitate trade (e.g., Lehar & Parlour, 2022a ). The algorithm is open-source, and anyone can see the liquidity and the expected transaction price. No one controls the algorithm. The algorithm does not care if you are a buyer or seller and is available 24/7. This algorithm is called a smart contract in the parlance of DeFi. The transaction record is written to an immutable ledger called a blockchain. This type of transaction contrasts sharply with the current system of brokers, execution brokers, market makers, Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation, and so on. DeFi has no middle layer, human market maker, or centralized exchange.

The potential for cost reduction within the legacy centralized financial infrastructure is limited. While traditional financial institutions currently face challenges from fintech firms, they will eventually face competition from DeFi.

Many misperceptions exist about DeFi. Importantly, DeFi is not just about trading cryptocurrencies. DeFi has many dimensions, including the enablement of web3 applications. For example, think of renting out your CPU overnight and being paid in a token or using a token to purchase computing time in a decentralized network. Web3 innovation poses a threat to most of today’s most valuable companies. The impact of DeFi goes well beyond finance.

The integration of financial markets across national boundaries, regionally and globally, carries significant implications. For instance, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a significant step toward economic integration in developing economies. To this end, the emergence of DeFi represents a promising frontier in international financial market integration that extends its benefits beyond advanced economies to include low-income countries. Considering the reliance on centralized systems, exploring DeFi’s role in this context becomes essential. By leveraging DeFi’s decentralized nature, cross-border activities can be facilitated with increased accessibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness while decreasing exposure to centralized financial and political risks (see Kobrin, 1979 for a discussion on political risks). This transformation may lead to more diverse firm choices and foster entrepreneurial opportunities across borders, ultimately contributing to broader economic growth and financial inclusion worldwide (e.g., Allen et al. 2021 ).

In this study, we aim to examine the implications for international business posed by the emergence of DeFi, focusing on its advantages, challenges, and risks. We analyze the DeFi landscape to provide potential investors, multinational firms, entrepreneurs, regulators, and other stakeholders’ valuable insights to navigate this dynamic new field. The revolution of fintech has begun, and through this study, we hope to equip you with the knowledge necessary to interact in this new frontier responsibly and effectively.

The DeFi market

The DeFi market gained significant traction in 2018, with the launch of the decentralized exchange Uniswap and the subsequent rise of other decentralized applications built on Ethereum, such as lending platforms and yield farming. This phase was characterized by innovation, as developers experimented with new financial primitives and sought to replicate traditional financial services using blockchain technology.

Through early 2021, the DeFi market experienced exponential growth. As depicted in Fig. 1 , the total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols skyrocketed, reaching almost $200 billion by the end of 2021. Footnote 2 The introduction of automated market makers such as Uniswap and decentralized lending platforms such as Compound significantly expanded the market. Yield farming, when users provide liquidity and earn fees and governance tokens as rewards, became popular, attracting investors and speculators (Augustin et al. 2022 ).

Total market liquidity: This figure depicts the evolution of total market liquidity expressed in billions of US dollars of total value locked. Data source: https://defillama.com/

The DeFi market also faced periods of high volatility and market corrections. In mid-2020, a series of exploits highlighted the vulnerabilities of early DeFi protocols. These incidents, such as the bZx attack, exposed weaknesses in smart contracts and liquidity pools, leading to significant user losses. These events prompted developers to improve security measures and implement audits.

Auditing in decentralized finance involves a process in which specialized firms, such as Haken, TrailBits, and Certik, examine smart contract code to identify potential weaknesses, bugs, or security vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. By conducting these audits, these firms can suggest code revisions and improvements to fix the identified vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security of the DeFi applications. Footnote 3

Figure 2 illustrates the evolution of DeFi protocols and the proportion of audited protocols over time. The blue bars indicate the number of DeFi protocols launched, offering insights into the growth and adoption of DeFi over time. The orange bars represent the proportion of audited protocols, highlighting the subset of DeFi protocols that have undergone code revisions – protocols less likely to have vulnerabilities.

Evolution of audited protocols: This figure depicts the launch of DeFi protocols over time. Blue bars represent the number of DeFi protocols launched per month. Orange bars represent the proportion of audited protocols (e.g., with code revisions). Courtesy: Landsman et al. ( 2024 )

Another important driver of DeFi market growth is the increasing use of decentralized exchanges (DEXs). DEXs emerged as a key component of the DeFi market, allowing users to trade cryptocurrencies directly from their wallets without relying on centralized intermediaries. DEXs such as Uniswap, SushiSwap, and PancakeSwap gained significant popularity, attracting large trading volumes and liquidity. For example, to date, Uniswap has traded over $2 trillion in value. The rise of DEXs contributed to the growth of decentralized trading and the concept of permissionless financial transactions.

As the popularity of DeFi increased, scalability and high transaction fees on the Ethereum network became pressing issues. Various Layer 2 solutions, such as Optimistic Rollups and Zero-Knowledge Rollups, emerged to address these challenges. These Layer 2 solutions aimed to enhance scalability, reduce transaction costs, and improve user experience, enabling DeFi protocols to handle more transactions. With the growth of different blockchain networks, efforts to achieve crosschain interoperability gained momentum. Projects such as Wormhole and Layer Zero aimed to establish bridges between different blockchain ecosystems, enabling seamless transfer of assets and data across networks. Cross-chain interoperability is expected to enhance DeFi’s scalability and expand its reach to other blockchain networks.

As DeFi gained prominence, regulators worldwide started paying closer attention to the sector. Regulators sought to ensure compliance with existing financial regulations, particularly regarding know-your-customer and anti-money-laundering requirements.

While regulators can target centralized exchanges such as Coinbase, Kraken, Binance, and FTX with regulatory enforcement actions, dealing with decentralized protocols is much more challenging. These protocols are just algorithms. How does a regulator serve an algorithm with, for example, a Wells Notice, given that the algorithm exists on thousands of computers worldwide. Footnote 4 Nevertheless, regulators are actively investigating how they can regulate decentralized protocols.

Summary statistics

We now describe the market by providing an overall anatomy of its current state. Table 1 depicts updated summary statistics of 2793 DeFi protocols spanning 32 DeFi categories as of May 2023. Footnote 5 DEXs make up 31% of the DeFi sector and are among the most significant contributors to its growth. They represent a new type of cryptocurrency exchange, allowing direct peer-to-pool trading without an intermediary. Unlike traditional exchanges that require users to deposit funds into a broker account, users can simply connect their wallets and trade instantly.

Yield farming protocols, Finance, account for 15% of the DeFi industry. Yield farming is an investment strategy in which users “farm” tokens by lending or staking cryptocurrencies in a DeFi market to earn high returns or rewards, often in additional cryptocurrency. Yield farmers typically hop between different protocols to maximize their returns, making it an active investment strategy.

Lending platforms, such as Aave, Compound, and MakerDAO, make up 9% of the DeFi space. These platforms operate similarly to banks, providing loans to users who provide crypto assets as collateral. However, unlike traditional banks, these platforms operate decentralized, without intermediaries, and all loans are overcollateralized. They also often offer higher interest rates than traditional financial institutions.

Regarding market capitalization (i.e., total tokens in circulation times their price), DEXs lead with $9.4 billion, followed by bridge ($5.6 billion) and liquid staking ($3.2 billion) protocols. Bridge protocols in DeFi facilitate the transfer of assets between different blockchain networks. Footnote 6 Liquid staking protocols enable users to earn staking rewards while maintaining the liquidity of their staked assets. Footnote 7

While market capitalization offers a comprehensive overview of the total value of tokens across various sectors, it is not widely utilized to assess the intrinsic value of DeFi protocols due to its limited scope, primarily focusing on protocols with listed tokens – constituting less than 30% of the market. As an alternative, market participants often turn to the metric of total value locked (TVL), encompassing all assets currently held within a protocol. The highest TVL is observed in the liquid staking category at $19.0 billion, followed by decentralized exchanges (DEXs) at $17.3 billion, lending at $14.3 billion, and bridges at $10.9 billion. The total market averaged about $90 billion this year. Footnote 8

The advantages of DeFi

DeFi is gradually gaining momentum in the financial sector, introducing several possibilities for consumers and businesses. This innovative space is characterized by numerous notable advantages that promise to redefine how we interact with financial systems. In the following sections, we explore eight key benefits that set DeFi apart from traditional financial systems: facilitation of peer-to-peer transactions, interoperability, transparency, public accessibility, potential for financial inclusion, programmability, integration capabilities, and unrestricted access to markets that operate around the clock. These elements contribute to DeFi’s transformative potential in the international business landscape.

High fees have always been a persistent pain point in traditional financial services (Beck et al. 2008 ). The traditional banking system and financial services industry involve many intermediaries. Every time a transaction occurs, several entities, such as the bank, payment processors, and sometimes even third-party financial institutions, must approve it, each taking its cut in the form of fees or commissions. Additionally, these institutions incur significant operational costs related to personnel, real estate, regulatory compliance, and other administrative expenditures. These costs are ultimately passed on to consumers through fees, which are a heavy burden to international businesses.

DeFi is set to disrupt this aspect by drastically reducing transaction costs (Harvey et al. 2021 ; Makarov & Schoar, 2022b ). Instead of relying on intermediaries, DeFi operates based on pre-programmed algorithms, or smart contracts, which execute transactions automatically once certain conditions are met. This characteristic makes the process faster and significantly reduces costs because an intermediary is unnecessary.

In DeFi, transactions are made directly between peers (peer-to-pool), thereby eliminating the need for intermediaries and their associated costs (Capponi et al. 2023 ). A good example is a DeFi exchange, also known as a DEX. In a DEX, such as Uniswap or SushiSwap, traders transact directly with each other guided by smart contracts, without a broker or a human market maker. The fees involved are usually the DEX transaction fee and the network transaction fee (known as “gas” on Ethereum), which are typically much lower than the commission charged by a traditional exchange.

Figure 3 shows the evolution of gas fees. In DeFi, you must pay a fee to run an algorithm in the Ethereum blockchain, analogous to paying to run a computer program in a popular cloud computing platform. Each program has a certain number of operations denoted as gas.

ETH gas cost: This figure depicts the evolution of Ethereum’s gas cost (transaction fees) expressed in Gwei (1 Gwei is equal to 1 billionth of Ether). If, for example, you pay 0.000000100 ETH as a transaction fee, you would say the cost was 100 Gwei. Data source: https://etherscan.io/chart/gasprice

This direct, peer-to-peer interaction leads to greater efficiency and lower fees, which is one of the key advantages of DeFi over traditional financial systems. Notably, lower fees make financial services more accessible to a wider range of people, especially those in developing regions where traditional banking fees can be prohibitive. Thus, DeFi can potentially foster financial inclusion on a global scale (e.g., Harvey et al. 2021 ; Popescu, 2022 ). For businesses, the benefits are obvious. Value can be transferred nearly instantly anywhere in the world at a low cost without the fees associated with the current banking system.

One area in which the benefits of DeFi on international business are visible is cross-border transactions. By operating on blockchain networks and smart contracts, DeFi platforms provide greater transparency, immutability, and real-time transaction settlement, reducing the risks of fraud, manipulation, and counterparty default on cross-border transactions. Additionally, DeFi enables borderless access to financial services, allowing users from different countries to participate in a global financial ecosystem without facing the same level of regulatory hurdles and restrictions typically encountered in traditional cross-border transactions. This aspect of DeFi can foster greater financial inclusion and participation, especially in regions with limited access to traditional banking services. More research examining the implications of innovation in this space is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of DeFi in addressing cross-border transaction issues.

Currency risk exposure

International businesses face various challenges in managing currency risk and hedging strategies within traditional financial systems (e.g., Demirag, 1988 ; Pantzalis & Laux, 2001 ; Batra et al. 2017 ). The volatility of exchange rates and the complexity of existing hedging instruments can create friction in cross-border transactions. In exploring the potential impact of decentralized finance (DeFi) on these challenges, it becomes essential to evaluate how DeFi may offer innovative solutions in the realms of currency risk exposure and hedging.

Traditional hedging against currency risk often involves using complex financial instruments, such as futures and options, traded on traditional markets. These instruments may require engagement with financial institutions, adding layers of complexity to the hedging process. DeFi introduces the potential for decentralized financial instruments and protocols that streamline and democratize the hedging process. Smart contracts on DeFi platforms can enable businesses to create and execute programmable, automated hedging strategies directly on a blockchain. This reduces reliance on intermediaries and enhances accessibility, allowing a broader range of businesses to engage in effective currency risk management within the decentralized financial ecosystem. Moreover, pricing output in tokens may provide firms with a first-mover advantage, potentially raising its equilibrium profit (e.g., Chod & Lyandres, 2023 ; Shakhnov And Zaccaria, 2023 ).

As international businesses navigate the challenges of currency risk and hedging, the emergence of DeFi offers promising solutions. For instance, by leveraging decentralized stablecoins and innovative smart contract capabilities, businesses can potentially enhance the predictability and efficiency of cross-border transactions. We encourage IB researchers to evaluate the pros and cons of employing a single currency or a form of cryptocurrency for international business transactions and its potential impact on exchange rate expenses and exposure to exchange rate risks.

Transparency

A significant advantage of DeFi is its inherent transparency, a trait it derives from its foundation, blockchain technology (Nakamoto, 2008 ). In traditional finance, operations are often opaque and rely heavily on government regulators to monitor and detect potential discrepancies or illicit activities. This system has proven flawed at times when regulators have failed to adequately supervise financial activities, leading to the failure of financial institutions, financial fraud, or market manipulation.

In contrast, DeFi’s transparency helps rectify this problem and accelerates innovation. DeFi protocols are built on open-source code that anyone can inspect and audit, which fosters a level of trust and transparency unparalleled in traditional financial systems, revealing the quality of the platform (Lyandres et al. 2022 ) and helping firms overcome contractual incompleteness (Chen et al. 2023 ). Moreover, if someone has an idea to improve a particular protocol, they can freely access and build upon the existing code, leading to rapid enhancements and iterations. This open-source ethos accelerates the development cycle, and a new protocol or an enhancement to an existing one could be launched within days.

Blockchain’s transparent nature also enables forensic analysis of transactions (Cong et al. 2022 ; Foley et al. 2019 ). This feature, known as blockchain forensics, allows analysts to track and study transaction patterns, identify anomalous behavior, and investigate potential illicit activities (Amiram et al. 2022 ; Griffin & Shams, 2020 ; Makarov & Schoar, 2022a ; Sokolov, 2021 ). This capability has proven invaluable when tracing transactions and funds is crucial, such as detecting money laundering or tracking stolen funds (Cong et al., 2023 ).

Figure 4 illustrates an example of a case of blockchain forensics conducted by Chainlysis, a reputable blockchain data analytics firm, concerning the ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline (Cong et al., 2023 ). The figure provides a visual representation of how blockchain forensic analysts traced the path of 75 BTCs (equivalent to approximately $5 million) that was paid as ransom by Colonial Pipeline. Through meticulous tracking of the Bitcoin blockchain, the FBI successfully recovered approximately 60% of the ransom payments. Additionally, the figure depicts the payment distribution, highlighting how a portion of it served as a fee for DarkSide, the malware provider responsible for offering Ransomware-as-a-Service, while the remaining payment went to the affiliate responsible for carrying out the attack.

Blockchain forensics analysis: This figure depicts Chainlysis’s blockchain forensic analysis in the case of Colonial Pipeline’s ransomware attack. The figure shows the trail of 75 BTCs paid as ransom. The diagram also shows how the Darkside, as Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), malware provider cashes 15% of the payment, while the remaining 85% goes to an affiliate wallet (the entity responsible for the attack). Courtesy: Cong et al. ( 2023 )

Another advantage of blockchain transparency is that it can be harnessed to enhance regulatory compliance within DeFi. While the principle of anonymity is cherished in the crypto world, some protocols explore the enforcement of know-your-customer and anti-money laundering regulations. Enforcing these regulations could help build trust with regulators and open the door for the increased institutional adoption of DeFi.

Thus, the inherent transparency in DeFi not only fosters trust and accountability, but also enables innovation, facilitates forensic investigation, and could potentially enhance regulatory compliance. IB research has focused on multinationals’ ability to improve operational efficiency (Benito et al. 2009 ), reduce costs (Akamah et al. 2017 ), and attract foreign investments (Cannizzaro & Weiner, 2018 ). In this context, future research could assess the impact of blockchain transparency on multinationals.

Public accessibility

DeFi applications are built on public blockchains, offering unrestricted, permissionless access to financial services. This feature alters the financial landscape by removing the need for approval from centralized authorities and by opening up global financial markets to anyone with Internet access. For example, an entrepreneur in a remote region of the world can now directly borrow funds from a DeFi lending platform such as Compound or Aave, circumventing the traditional, often restrictive banking system. Moreover, with limits to financial access and regulatory barriers to raising traditional capital, tokens may be able to finance a strictly larger set of ventures than traditional equity (Malinova & Park, 2023 ).

The public nature of the blockchain also allows external entities, such as regulatory agencies and researchers, to analyze the data. This transparency can be instrumental for regulatory bodies in monitoring the market, enforcing compliance, and detecting illicit activities. Similarly, researchers can study transaction patterns, investigate market dynamics, and gain insights into user behavior, all contributing to an improved understanding and further development of the DeFi ecosystem.

By operating on a public blockchain, DeFi democratizes access to financial services and opens up avenues for transparent analysis and inspection of financial transactions, paving the way for a new era in the financial industry characterized by inclusivity, transparency, efficiency, and innovation. IB research has dedicated significant resources to unraveling strategic competitiveness for private, public, and state-owned firms (e.g., Boellis et al., 2016 ; Choudhury & Khanna, 2014 ; Meyer et al. 2014 ). Footnote 9 Future research might explore the ramifications of public accessibility on blockchain-based applications for firms’ competitiveness in the international arena.

Interoperability

Decentralized applications (dApps) in DeFi have the unique advantage of being interoperable, meaning they can operate seamlessly across different protocols. For example, imagine a scenario where you can buy a token on one DEX and sell it on another in the same transaction. In traditional finance, such an event could never happen because transferring funds between entities such as brokers and banks can be cumbersome and takes several days to complete. In the DeFi ecosystem, transactions are processed instantaneously, often in seconds or minutes, promoting efficiency and ease of use.

Another aspect of interoperability is the emergence of cross-chain applications, which allow the transfer of assets and data across different blockchain networks (Schulte et al. ( 2019 )). Traditionally, blockchain networks have operated in isolation, but cross-chain technology breaks down these barriers and allows seamless interactions. For example, a user might want to use a lending platform on the Ethereum blockchain while holding assets on the Binance Smart Chain. Crosschain solutions facilitate such preferences, ensuring users can interact with the full spectrum of DeFi applications, regardless of the blockchain they operate on.

On another front, oracles are crucial in enhancing interoperability within DeFi. Oracles provide smart contracts with data from outside the native blockchain. Doing so enables dApps to react to real-world events and conditions, enhancing their functionality and utility. For instance, a decentralized insurance platform might rely on an oracle to provide real-time weather data to settle claims related to weather events. Using oracles extends the interoperability of dApps, allowing them to interact with other applications in the DeFi space and the world of traditional finance.

In Fig. 5 , the interoperability effects, measured as total value locked (TVL) correlations, are illustrated for the nascent Avalanche blockchain both before and after the implementation of cross-chain capabilities facilitated through oracle integration. The correlations between Avalanche’s TVL and other blockchains exhibit a shift towards more positive values (indicated by dark blue hues) following the integration of oracles. This trend suggests that the incorporation of oracles fosters increased synergies among different chains, particularly as the mass of integrated decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols grows within a given blockchain (Cong, Prasad, et al. 2023 ).

Interoperability effects: This figure depicts interoperability effects (measured as TVL correlations) for the young chain Avalanche before and after enabling cross-chain capabilities (via oracle integration). Correlations range from -1 ( red ) to +1 ( blue ). Each square measures the TVL correlation between blockchains before ( left side ) and after ( right side ) Avalanche oracle integration. Courtesy: Cong et al. ( 2023 )

Thus, through features such as cross-chain applications and oracles, the interoperability inherent to DeFi enhances its efficiency, flexibility, and usability, surpassing traditional financial systems’ capabilities. It allows transactions to occur swiftly and seamlessly, enabling financial innovation and accessibility unprecedented in traditional finance.

Composability

The open-access and integrable nature of most DeFi applications sets them apart from their traditional finance counterparts. Traditional finance systems typically operate in silos, so that each bank or financial institution has a proprietary infrastructure, which often does not communicate well with other systems. This structure results in inefficient processes, such as delayed bank transfers and limited ability to create innovative, cross-platform financial products. In contrast, DeFi applications typically follow standard protocols and are constructed using open-source software. Openness allows anyone to audit the underlying code, fostering trust through transparency. It also facilitates ease of integration or interoperability among different DeFi services, leading to an innovative concept known as “composability” or “money legos.”

Composability is the ability to seamlessly connect different DeFi protocols to build new financial products or services and is akin to combining different Lego blocks to create a unique structure. This level of interoperability and integration is unprecedented in traditional finance. For example, consider the composability of two distinct DeFi protocols: Compound and MakerDAO. Users can put their tokens, like Circle’s stablecoin USDC, into Compound, a lending platform, to earn interest. In return, they get an equity token called cToken, which can be deployed to another pool and earns interest. Now, these cTokens may also be used as collateral in MakerDAO to get a loan in the form of DAI, a decentralized stablecoin linked to the US dollar. This smooth connection between two protocols, creating a new financial service, shows the strength of composability and the creative possibilities in the DeFi world.

The main difference between interoperability and composability lies in their respective focus. Interoperability enables seamless interaction between existing protocols or platforms, facilitating the movement of assets and data across different networks. Composability combines and integrates different smart contracts or protocols to build novel financial applications or strategies.

Furthermore, this composable nature of DeFi not only enhances efficiency but fosters a highly competitive and innovative ecosystem, encouraging continuous improvement and development. As DeFi applications continue to be built and integrated, the possibilities for innovative financial products and services are seemingly endless, potentially transforming the entire financial sector.

Programmability

While composability refers to the seamless integration and combination of different decentralized applications (DApps) Footnote 10 and financial protocols, allowing developers to create more complex and interconnected financial products. Programmability relates to the capability of writing and executing custom code, typically in the form of smart contracts, to automate specific financial operations. A key facet of DeFi lies in its ability to harness the programmable nature of blockchain technology, which allows developers to code and create diverse financial instruments. This programmability has led to significant innovation and is one of the main factors setting DeFi apart from traditional finance.

Traditional finance tends to be rigid due to regulatory constraints and the limitations of physical, centralized systems. New financial products or services in traditional finance often need to go through complex processes of design, compliance checks, and regulatory approval before they can be launched, making innovation in traditional finance slower and more constrained compared to DeFi.

In contrast, DeFi opens up significant opportunities for financial innovation, limited only by developers’ imaginations and technical expertise. One prime example is the creation of synthetic assets, which can be found on platforms such as Synthetix. Synthetic assets are tokens that mirror the price of other assets, such as stocks, commodities, or other cryptocurrencies. Users can gain exposure to various markets, such as gold or Apple stocks, without owning the underlying assets. This concept is novel and offers unprecedented access to global markets.

Another innovative DeFi instrument is a flash loan, an innovation unique to DeFi and unfeasible in traditional finance. A flash loan is a loan with zero collateral, no credit checks, no interest rate, and zero duration. Flash loans allow users to borrow and return funds within a single transaction and are often used for arbitrage opportunities or swapping collateral on loans. The flash loan structure is possible because of the atomic nature of blockchain transactions, in which several operations can be executed at once or not at all, eliminating default risk. That is, if the borrower has insufficient funds to repay the loan, the entire transaction fails and reverts to the state before the loan was taken out.

Such developments are just the tip of the iceberg, illustrating the potential of DeFi to disrupt finance. By combining the principles of finance with the capabilities of blockchain, DeFi is reshaping the way we interact with money, creating a more open and inclusive financial system.

24/7 access to markets

The last, but certainly not the least, distinguishing factor between DeFi and traditional finance is the unceasing operation of DeFi markets. Traditional financial markets, such as stock exchanges and banks, usually operate within specific business hours, often from Monday to Friday, and are closed during weekends and holidays. As a result, the ability to transact, particularly across borders, can be slow and often takes several business days due to time zone differences and banking hours. In contrast, DeFi markets are operational 24/7, all year round. They are not constrained by traditional working hours or geographical locations. Further, DeFi has no settlement delay, so execution and settlement are instantaneous. This constant availability permits real-time trading and transactions, drastically reducing the time needed for fund transfers and settlements.

Another example of constant access is a decentralized exchange, such as Uniswap or Sushiswap. Traders from anywhere in the world can trade digital assets at any time. A DEX has no “market close” hours, no holidays, and no restrictions based on the trader’s location. This access revolutionizes the trading experience, offering unparalleled convenience and speed.

The round-the-clock operation particularly transforms the dynamics of cross-border transactions. For instance, a user in Asia can instantly send funds to a user in America, regardless of the time. Such a transaction would traditionally take a few business days due to differences in time zones and the slower processing times of conventional banking systems. With DeFi, however, the transaction happens in real-time, increasing international commerce’s speed and making financial operations more efficient.

In conclusion, the ceaseless operation of DeFi markets is a significant move forward in global financial systems, enhancing the efficiency, speed, and convenience of transactions. It provides a compelling illustration of how DeFi can disrupt and potentially redefine our understanding of financial systems.

Potential for financial inclusion

The potential for financial inclusion is another profound advantage the DeFi sector brings. Traditional banking systems have historically failed to adequately serve individuals in rural areas and those with lower incomes. For instance, a recent report by the World Bank estimates that more than 1.4 billion people worldwide remain unbanked. Footnote 11 Almost 6 million US households have no bank account. Footnote 12 The main causes behind this problem are the absence of physical banking infrastructure and the perceived risks associated with extending services to these segments of society.

DeFi, however, has the potential to alter the status quo completely. With DeFi, only an Internet connection and a smartphone are required to access a myriad of financial services, making physical infrastructure irrelevant. This universal access democratizes the financial landscape, allowing anyone, anywhere, to participate in the Internet-enabled economy.

For instance, consider an individual without a bank account, a common scenario in many developing nations. Such a person can still save and grow their funds using DeFi protocols. A platform such as Yearn.Finance, for example, provides a simple way to automatically earn deposit yields, all managed by a decentralized algorithm. The individual can deposit their crypto assets into Yearn.Finance’s smart contract and earn interest over time, without needing a traditional bank account.

Similarly, DeFi lending platforms, such as Aave and Compound, allow users to earn interest by providing liquidity or to borrow funds by providing collateral without needing a credit check or a physical bank. This level of accessibility opens up new opportunities for individuals who have been underserved by the traditional banking system, providing them with a way to enhance their economic prospects and financial stability.

DeFi plays a pivotal role in enhancing financial access and has the potential to significantly promote financial inclusion, particularly in low-income economies. A prominent example of how innovation spurs financial inclusion is “Equity Bank,” based in Kenya, which has attracted considerable attention for its commitment to improving financial access in the region. According to the bank’s CEO, the percentage of the Kenyan population with bank accounts has risen from a mere 4% in 1994 to an impressive 90% today, showcasing the remarkable progress in increasing financial inclusion. Footnote 13 DeFi’s involvement could further advance this inclusion by expanding the array of financial products and services accessible to customers in these underserved regions.

Researching DeFi’s potential for financial inclusion is very promising, especially focusing on evaluating initiatives that promote economic growth and prosperity in underserved areas of the world. Footnote 14

Implications to monetary policy

DeFi has several implications for monetary policy. First, the existence of new tokenized value of both crypto and real-world assets provides a challenge to central bank monopolies over fiat. It gives companies an alternative way to pay for items or receive payments. Second, DeFi speeds up the transfer process, increases security, and allows for transparency as all transactions are visible in the decentralized ledger. Third, DeFi provides another channel for financing businesses.

However, there are challenges as with any new technology. The inherent volatility of DeFi crypto-assets, regulatory uncertainties, and potential risks associated with smart contracts pose significant hurdles for governments seeking to integrate these systems into their economic strategies. Policymakers must carefully navigate these complexities to harness the benefits presented by DeFi while developing safeguards against potential risks.

Indeed, it is no surprise that many central banks have launched central bank digital currency (CBDC) initiatives. They likely had little choice because they needed to compete with blockchain technologies. It is likely that, in the future, cryptocurrencies and CBDCs (which are centralized currencies) will coexist (Chiu & Davoodalhosseini, 2023 ). Taxes will be paid in CBDC fiat and government employees will be paid in CBDC fiat. Other than that, consumers and businesses can choose a payment token.

Naturally, any new technology involves risks and challenges. Complete elimination of risk is an unachievable goal – even the most secure investments, such as US Treasury bills, carry a certain degree of risk. DeFi, given its novel and complex nature, is not exempt from risk. This section explores several key risks associated with the adoption of DeFi in international business that require careful consideration.

Smart contract risk

Smart contracts, computer programs that execute transactions when pre-defined conditions are met, are susceptible to coding errors and bugs (Harvey et al., 2021 ). For example, errors in the business logic of a contract can lead to unintended consequences, such as in the infamous DAO hack in 2016, which led to the loss of about $60 million worth of ether due to a recursive-call vulnerability – also known as a reentrancy bug.

Risk mitigation strategies include rigorous testing, code reviews, audits, and automated tools to detect known vulnerabilities. Additionally, it is advisable to involve experienced developers or auditors who are well versed in smart contract development and its associated risks. Despite these precautions, the inherent complexity of smart contracts and their immutable nature, once deployed on the blockchain, pose significant challenges in ensuring flawless operation.

In response to the growing risks associated with smart contracts in DeFi, the need for auditing, formal verification, and bug hunting has significantly increased. These functions have become critical because smart contracts’ autonomous and immutable nature requires that they operate flawlessly right from the deployment.

Figure 6 depicts the distribution of auditing methods across hundreds of audited DeFi protocols. The most popular auditing method is code review. Code review involves examining the smart contract code for potential vulnerabilities, security flaws, and logical errors. Auditors also assess the logic and implementation of the smart contracts to ensure they operate as intended and do not contain any hidden or malicious functionality. A code review aims to ensure the integrity and reliability of the DeFi protocol.

Auditing: This figure depicts the distribution of auditing services including code reviews, formal verification, and bug hunting. Courtesy: Landsman et al. ( 2024 )

Formal verification is another crucial process gaining popularity in the DeFi space. It involves mathematically proving that a smart contract behaves as expected. Formal verification is a more rigorous process than regular auditing and can provide stronger guarantees about the correctness of a contract.

Finally, bug bounties have become common in the DeFi ecosystem (Landsman et al., 2024 ). A bug bounty usually involves the community detecting potential vulnerabilities in smart contracts. Many projects run bug bounty programs, rewarding individuals who find and report bugs in their code. Such programs have created a collaborative ecosystem in which developers and users work together to improve the security and reliability of DeFi protocols. An increasing portion of audited protocols uses a mix of these different methods, possibly resulting in a more complete auditing process.

Research in this space may investigate the relevance of auditing for market players, the presence of certification effects, the cross-section variation of auditing quality, and the economic impact of auditing on DeFi protocols’ userbase and economic growth.

Governance risk

Decentralized governance is a fundamental aspect of DeFi, allowing participants to make decisions collectively and influence the direction of a protocol or platform, therefore having far-reaching implications for the corporate governance of multinational corporations (MNCs) implementing DeFi technology to manage their operations efficiently (e.g., Benito et al., 2009 ). For MNCs, DeFi governance can reshape the landscape of global competitiveness (Aguilera et al. 2019 ), potentially diffusing decentralized governance practices across national borders (Cumming et al. 2017 ).

In the current form, DeFi’s governance typically revolves around decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) or similar structures (Goldberg & Schar, 2023 ). Consistent with the conventional practice in traditional finance, a project’s token holders possess voting rights commensurate with their token holdings, thereby participating in decision-making processes about the project’s future (Kondova & Barba, 2019 ).

The risk of centralization could jeopardize the concept of decentralization (Ferreira et al. 2023 ). An example of this risk would be if a few significant token holders, known as “whales,” exerted dominance over the decision-making process (Appel & Grennan, 2023 ; Han et al., 2023 ). Consequently, these whales might favor decisions that are advantageous to themselves but detrimental to smaller token holders or the wider community. Of course, this expropriation of stakeholders has a longstanding history in traditional finance.

Table 2 offers an overview of governance proposals across popular DeFi protocols. The table illustrates decentralized governance’s inherent complexity and varying degrees of success. Interestingly, some protocols, such as PancakeSwap , Curve , and ShibaSwap , have the lowest success rates, perhaps reflecting the large degree of shareholder fragmentation among these DeFi applications.

Often, voter participation is low, with only a small percentage of token holders partaking in voting. Low participation can lead to decisions that do not necessarily reflect the majority’s interests (Chohan, 2022 ). Several factors can contribute to low participation, such as a lack of incentives, complexity of the process, investors buying tokens for speculation and not caring about DAO, and sentiment among token holders that their vote will not make a significant impact.

Figure 7 illustrates the voting system of the decentralized lending protocol Compound. The process begins with the introduction of a proposal. Following its launch, the proposal undergoes a review by the community under Compound’s governance guidelines. After the proposal is vetted, the voting phase commences. This stage can span several days or weeks until a quorum is achieved or the designated voting time frame elapses. Following the conclusion of the voting period, a decision is reached. If successful, the proposal then progresses to the implementation stage.

Governance: This figure depicts the governance system of Compound. Data source: https://compound.finance/Governance

Another potential risk arises when a single actor creates multiple accounts to sway voting outcomes in their favor. Token-based voting systems attempt to curb this risk by linking influence to token holdings. The risk, however, cannot be entirely eradicated, especially when the token distribution is uneven. Many voters may have short-term interests because token holders can freely trade their tokens. A voter’s short-term focus could lead to decisions that yield immediate benefits but compromise the project’s long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, DeFi projects often incorporate intricate technical and economic concepts. Making informed decisions about such complex issues can be daunting for the average token holder, potentially leading to sub-optimal governance decisions.

Lastly, regulatory risk cannot be overlooked. Regulatory bodies could classify Certain governance tokens as securities due to the voting rights and potential profit they offer, posing legal complications for both the token holders and the project.

To mitigate these risks, projects can implement measures such as locking periods for tokens used in voting, quadratic voting (for which the cost of votes increases exponentially), Footnote 15 delegation of votes to expert representatives, and on-chain governance when all actions are transparent and auditable on the blockchain. Despite these measures, governance in DeFi remains a complex issue that necessitates further research.

Some obvious research questions arise. What is the optimal structure of a DAO? How do we think about the valuation of the governance tokens, given they only have voting rights and no obvious cash flow rights? Should there be a minimum token holding for voting? Should there be markets for vote buying? How do we think about the regulation of DAOs, given they are not domiciled in any particular country?

Oracle risk

Oracles serve as indispensable conduits in the DeFi ecosystem, bridging the gap between blockchains and real-world data (John, Kogan, et al., 2022 ). Smart contracts, encoded with the terms of the agreement, inherently lack the capacity to access off-chain or real-world data independently. This limitation necessitates the role of oracles, third-party services that infuse smart contracts with external information, ranging from cryptocurrency prices to weather data.

Oracles’ essential role does not negate the risks they bring to the DeFi ecosystem. A notable risk is centralization, when reliance on a single oracle for data introduces a point of potential failure into the system. This risk can have severe repercussions if the oracle malfunctions or feeds inaccurate data (Adams, Wan, & Zinsmeister, 2022 ). Examples of such repercussions are faulty liquidations in a lending platform (Campello et al., 2023 ) or distorted pricing on a decentralized exchange (Capponi & Jia, 2024 ).

Additionally, the quality of data an oracle provides hinges upon the reliability of its sources. If these sources falter or offer stale data, the DeFi applications, depending on it, can be negatively affected. Furthermore, relying on a third-party oracle service brings risks, such as service downtime, hacking, or even discontinuation. If the oracle goes down, every transaction sent to the smart contract that uses it will fail.

Table 3 provides a snapshot of the market for DeFi oracles, showing the number of protocols each oracle secures and the total value secured by each in billions of US dollars.

Various strategies are available to counter these risks. Using data from multiple oracles can safeguard against the malfunction or manipulation of a single oracle. Decentralized oracle networks such as Chainlink are designed to diminish centralization risk by amalgamating data from several independent node operators. Some protocols also cross-verify the data provided by oracles by cross-referencing it against multiple data sources.

Despite these risk mitigation strategies, the threat of oracle risk remains a significant challenge in the DeFi space. Future research in this area could include (1) assessing the incentives that could ensure information integrity, (2) the economic implications of oracle adoption and interoperability effects among integrated protocols, and (3) the effects of increased competition among oracle providers.

Liquidation risk

Providing collateral has long been a standard practice for borrowers seeking a loan. For instance, you might offer your property as collateral to secure a substantial loan, thereby providing the lending institution with a reliable means of recovering their funds if you cannot repay the loan. In theory, the value of your house will always be at least equal to the loan amount.

The guarantee is contingent on the collateral maintaining a stable value. For example, in a traditional mortgage loan, the price of the house (the collateral) may plummet in value, so that the loan amount becomes greater than the value of the collateral. In this situation, a homeowner could choose not to make their mortgage payments, prompting the bank to foreclose or try to renegotiate the loan. Ultimately, the homeowner could simply walk away, and the bank would take a loss when it sells the house. The homeowner, of course, might not walk away and continue to pay the mortgage, hoping their home’s price will recover.

Home prices are relatively stable. In contrast, cryptos are highly volatile. To preserve the overcollateralization (collateral worth more than a loan), loans are rapidly closed out if the collateral value drops below a certain level. There is no renegotiation. A third party known as a keeper will close out or liquidate an undercollateralized loan by selling the collateral, paying off the loan, taking a fee, and, in most cases, returning the residual, if any, to the borrower (Lehar & Parlour, 2022b ). One risk is that the keeper liquidates the collateral at less than a favorable price.

In DeFi, obtaining a loan involves providing crypto collateral even though the value of cryptocurrencies is highly volatile: the value of the Ethereum or NFTs used as collateral last week could undergo significant changes this week. If the collateral loses value, it becomes worthless as a guarantee for the DeFi lender. This risk also exists in traditional finance because any asset can fluctuate in value. The risk is more prevalent and pronounced in DeFi, however, due to the inherent inconsistency in the value of cryptocurrencies.

We encourage further research on the interplay of liquidations and the value of cryptocurrencies, the economics of decentralized lending applications, and overall market stability.

Custodial risk

Custodial risk is an inherent part of managing cryptocurrencies, primarily due to their association with private keys. Losing these keys equates to losing access to the corresponding digital assets. Numerous instances in the cryptocurrency world underscore this risk when individuals have lost access to substantial holdings due to forgotten passwords or misplaced keys. While self-custody offers autonomy, it comes with the responsibility of key management.

There are four main approaches to custody. First, the user can hold the private keys and run the risk of losing them. There is no “password” recovery. Second, the user can use a service that “splits” the private key and, say, two of three pieces can constitute the original private key. The user keeps two pieces, and a custodian keeps the final third. Any attack on or a loss of one piece is immaterial. Third, the user may choose a professional custodian, like Fidelity, to keep their keys. These services are popular with investment managers who do not want to bear the risk of losing their private key. Finally, many delegate custody to the broker/exchange they are using.

However, there is a long list of exchange hacks (Mt. Gox, Bitfinex, Binance, etc.) and frauds (FTX). There are many choices from opaque offshore exchanges such as Binance to the U.S.-based exchange Coinbase, which has a high degree of transparency given it is listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange. Future research may assess the risks custodial of crypto assets imposed on multinationals and the costs associated with potential solutions in this space.

Environmental risk

While environmental risk was a concern in the past due to the energy-intensive Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, Ethereum transitioned to a different consensus mechanism in late 2022 called Proof of Stake. After this transition, the need for energy-intensive mining was eliminated. Although environmental risks remain significant for the Bitcoin blockchain, most decentralized finance protocols operate through Ethereum and Ethereum-compatible blockchains. Consequently, the environmental risk has been largely mitigated.

Scalability risk

Scaling is a critical challenge for DeFi applications, many built on the Ethereum blockchain (Benhaim et al., 2023 ). The current state of Ethereum’s infrastructure can only process a limited number of transactions per second, creating a bottleneck that leads to slower transaction times and higher fees, especially during periods of high demand. This bottleneck is a significant obstacle, particularly when comparing Ethereum’s capabilities to centralized systems such as Visa, which can handle tens of thousands of transactions per second.

Several strategies are being developed to address the scalability issue and increase the Ethereum network’s transaction capacity. Ethereum and Defi need to be able to process thousands, if not millions, of transactions per second. Two initiatives are underway to achieve this goal. First, Ethereum will “shard” into 64 subchains coordinated by a master chain. Sharding will lead to increased transactions per second – but is only a modest improvement compared to traditional finance. A more promising approach for increasing speed is the Layer 2 solutions, such as Optimistic and ZkRollups, which are also being explored to improve Ethereum’s scalability. These solutions process transactions off the main Ethereum chain (Layer 1), reducing the burden on the network. Once confirmed, the transactions are batched together and added to the main chain.

Moreover, alternative blockchain platforms, such as Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Polkadot, and Solana, have emerged to offer more scalable environments for DeFi applications. These networks offer higher throughput and lower transaction fees than Ethereum’s current state, attracting developers and users.

Table 4 provides an overview of the current state of the blockchain market. Dominating the DeFi market, Ethereum boasts the highest number of protocols among the largest Layer 1 networks. It also leads in terms of total value locked, accounting for approximately 43.9% of the DeFi market, and commands the largest average daily trading volume, more than double that of its nearest competitor. Despite Ethereum’s dominance, alternative blockchain platforms, such as BSC, Arbitrum, Polygon, Optimism, Avalanche, and Solana, are potential contenders for providing scalability solutions to the DeFi market. The numbers in the table represent a market snapshot as of February 2024. Given the rapid pace of innovation, the market is likely to change dramatically in the future.

While these efforts promise improvements, the transition is complex and poses risks, including potential technical issues or delays in the implementation timeline. Thus, while DeFi holds auspicious potential, it is vital to carefully manage these scaling risks to ensure the successful evolution and adoption of DeFi applications, especially on the wave of alternative blockchains.

Block building risk

Almost all DeFi uses the proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. In this framework, the amount of crypto – say, ether – that you stake determines the probability that you will be designated to propose a block (a set of transactions to be added to a blockchain). That is, if you stake 10% of the ether, you have a 10% probability of being selected to propose a block. The technique is much more efficient than proof of work (PoW) from an energy point of view. Investing in specialized computer equipment is unnecessary; electricity consumption is no different from traditional payment networks. PoS works because if a proposer includes an invalid transaction, they are penalized, and it comes right out of their stake. Why would proposers include invalid transactions when they know they will lose money? PoS is incentive-compatible.

The technique, however, is not without risk. For example, suppose you are designated to propose a block. You have full access to the list of candidate transactions. As a proposer, you can pick and choose which ones to include. Suppose you see a large buy order for a token. You can insert your own transaction to buy the token before the large transaction. Doing so will almost guarantee that the price of your purchased token will rise after the large buy transaction. The practice is called front running. In contrast to front running in today’s centralized securities markets, front running in crypto is not illegal, given that all candidate and final transactions are visible to anyone. The proposer makes money in three ways: (1) a reward for proposing the block; (2) individual transaction fees; and (3) front-running profits. These collective profits are known as the maximal extractable value in the industry.

The problem of front running also exists in PoW. In that model, the miners are proposers, and a miner would want to front-run, too. In PoW, the success of front running is not guaranteed because of the probabilistic nature of winning a block in the PoW model. In PoS, once designated, you know for sure you could front-run successfully. Indeed, several companies specialize in “building” blocks. When a proposer is chosen, they can either build the block independently or use a building service such as Flashbots. These services order transactions in such a way as to maximize profitability.

Regulatory and cross-border risk

Regulators are still developing frameworks for cryptocurrencies, grappling with finding the right balance between facilitating innovation and protecting consumers. If regulations are lax, then consumers may be exploited. If regulations are too harsh, innovation is driven offshore – and no country wants its best ideas offshore. The regulator faces at least five challenges. First, the technology is complex, requiring a long learning curve. Second, technology is evolving rapidly, so even after investing in understanding the technology, acquired knowledge is quickly dated. Third, recruiting experts to join the regulatory team is challenging because they typically have other competitive, often more profitable, employment opportunities from both DeFi-oriented and traditional companies seeking to enter the space. Fourth, as a global technology, unfavorable regulation in one country leads to regulatory arbitrage, encouraging developers to move to another, more-friendly country. Fifth, decentralized finance is, by definition, decentralized. It is challenging to enforce, and there is no person to serve. The computer programs composing the DeFi space exist on thousands of computers worldwide.

The evolving and complex nature of technology and regulatory uncertainty pose challenges for regulators and the DeFi space. Finding the middle ground requires an investment in understanding the landscape, keeping up with evolving protocols, and attracting knowledgeable employees.

For example, in the United States, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) are working to classify cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based assets. The SEC’s recent legal actions against Ripple Labs are a prominent example of its approach to classifying certain tokens as securities. Similarly, the CFTC’s approval of ErisX’s Ethereum futures contract suggests that certain tokens could be regulated as commodities.

Regulatory initiatives are also on the agenda of several countries across the globe. However, the variation in the treatment of local agencies to several cryptocurrency-related issues calls for international harmonization (Beale, 2023 ; Cong, Landsman, et al., 2023 ). For instance, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD, 2022 ) recently called for developing a framework to harmonize the taxation of cryptocurrencies. In Europe, the European Union (EU) has recently adopted the Market in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation – the bloc’s first comprehensive set of crypto-related regulations designed to address existing EU financial services legislation gaps. MiCA aims to safeguard investors through enhanced transparency and implement a comprehensive framework for issuers and service providers, including compliance with anti-money laundering rules. In light of the global nature of crypto markets, introducing this harmonized regulatory system across the EU signifies an improvement over the current scenario of fragmented national legislation existing in only some member states. Footnote 16

DeFi also presents challenges in cross-border activities, including the lack of consistent global regulatory frameworks, exposing participants to uncertain legal environments and varying consumer protection levels. Furthermore, cross-border DeFi transactions may be vulnerable to exchange rate volatility and liquidity risks due to the inherent volatility of cryptocurrencies (Biais, Bisiere, Bouvard, Casamata, & Menkveld, 2023 ; Liu et al. 2022 ), potentially impacting asset values and user stability.

Resolving the regulatory uncertainty would provide the DeFi space with increased stability and promote broader adoption. With its capacity to minimize financial inefficiencies, foster inclusivity, and stimulate economic growth, DeFi signifies a potentially transformative force in the future of finance. Reaching this potential will require ongoing investments in understanding the landscape, staying abreast of developing protocols, and hiring personnel with expertise in the intersection of finance, blockchain technology, and regulation.

Financial literacy risk

In the rapidly evolving landscape of DeFi, financial literacy emerges as a critical component, particularly for individuals in less developed nations. Financial literacy is essential as it enables individuals to navigate the intricacies of DeFi platforms, make informed decisions, and safeguard their financial assets. Adequate knowledge ensures that users can harness the opportunities presented by decentralized financial instruments while minimizing the risks associated with this space’s often volatile and dynamic nature.

Moreover, in less developed nations, where traditional banking infrastructure may be limited, DeFi can be a democratizing force, providing financial services to a broader population. However, without a robust understanding of these tools, individuals may be vulnerable to scams and fraudulent activities in the decentralized space. Equally important is the democratization of the access to high-quality Internet, as it is the gateway to DeFi tools that have the potential to empower individuals economically.

Initiatives that promote financial education, digital literacy, and secure Internet access are crucial in empowering individuals to participate actively and securely in the evolving world of decentralized finance.

Decentralized finance (DeFi) marks a potentially transformative shift in the financial landscape, leveraging blockchain technology to offer innovative services. Its core strengths, including heightened accessibility, enhanced transparency, increased financial inclusivity, and unparalleled transaction efficiency, propel international business (IB) integration by enabling users worldwide to access financial services without traditional intermediaries.

The decentralized nature of DeFi not only facilitates borderless access to financial services but also diminishes cross-border transaction costs, potentially altering the mechanics of international trade and investment. DeFi’s focus on financial inclusivity can empower individuals and businesses in underserved regions, allowing them to participate in the global financial ecosystem. Monitoring the evolution of DeFi is imperative for IB professionals to identify opportunities, manage risks, and adapt strategies within this dynamic fintech landscape.

DeFi will lead to many changes in traditional centralized business structures. Yet, it is unlikely to replace centralized business. Certain tasks are more efficiently done decentralized, while others call for some degree of centralization. Many traditional businesses see the opportunity that DeFi offers to improve efficiency and their customers’ experiences. Other businesses face an existential threat due to this new technology. A third group of businesses are in “wait and see” mode. The strategy of doing nothing is fraught with risk given this fast-changing technology.

As with any new technology, there are risks. Furthermore, our regulatory system was caught unprepared for this new technology. Importantly, DeFi is not just about trading and transfers of cryptocurrency. DeFi impacts almost all traditional businesses through the innovation of web3. Simply put, web3 is our current web integrated with DeFi. For example, think of renting your or your company’s GPUs overnight for AI training and being rewarded in real time with a DeFi token. That token has value because those who demand decentralized cloud computing need to buy the token. Further, there is an obvious comparison with traditional providers. This is just one example. Other applications include decentralized data storage, video and music streaming, social media, and even ride-sharing. Indeed, DeFi upends the current social media model whereby users provide content and the social media companies sell the users’ data to advertisers. In the new world, users get paid a token for viewing advertisements. The message here is that DeFi is no longer a niche technology. It impacts almost all global businesses.

Excerpt from the preface of DeFi and the Future of Finance by (e.g., Harvey, Ramachandran, and Santoro ( 2021 )).

Total value locked (TVL) refers to the cumulative value of all assets deposited in a decentralized finance protocol that contributes to its economic activity. This activity encompasses a range of operations, including lending, borrowing, economic provision, asset management, and insurance. Essentially, TVL constitutes the aggregate of all DeFi protocol assets that accrue rewards, interest, new coins and tokens, fixed income, and so forth.

See “ Smart contract risk ” section for a detailed description of auditing services.

In April 2024, the SEC served a Wells Notice to Uniswap Labs. This had no impact on the functionality of any of the Uniswap decentralized exchanges. Uniswap Labs is funded by the Uniswap DAO and conducts research and offers enhancements to the DEX trading algorithms.

See “Appendix” for a detailed description of each DeFi category.

They enable interoperability by creating a bridge that connects isolated blockchains, allowing users to transfer tokens and assets across different networks. Bridge protocols enhance liquidity and expand the range of assets utilized within the DeFi ecosystem.

Liquid staking protocols generate derivative tokens (often referred to as staked tokens) representing the staked assets – staking an asset means funds are escrowed in a smart contract to ensure users do not deviate from expected behavior. These derivative tokens can be freely traded and utilized within the DeFi ecosystem, enabling users to benefit from staking rewards while retaining the flexibility of using their assets for other purposes, such as lending or trading.

All data as of May 2023

See also Birkinshaw and Morrison ( 1995 ), Filatotchev et al. ( 2008 ), Jackson and Deeg ( 2008 ), and Meyer et al. ( 2014 ).

A dApp is an application not centrally controlled by a corporation or government. An example is the popular MetaMask wallet.

See https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2022/07/21/covid-19-boosted-theadoption-of-digital-financial-services .

See https://www.fdic.gov/analysis/household-survey/index.html .

See https://www.theceomagazine.com/executive-interviews/finance-banking/james-mwangi/ .

IB researchers have been increasingly interested in financial inclusion issues (e.g., Allen et al., 2021 ; Ault, 2016 ; Bowen & De Clercq, 2008 ; London & Hart, 2004 ).

In quadratic voting, each participant is allocated a certain number of credits they can use to cast votes on an issue (Benhaim et al., 2023b ). The cost of casting multiple votes for the same issue increases quadratically rather than linearly. As such, the marginal cost of each successive vote is significantly higher than the last.

The new regulations encompass issuers of utility tokens, asset-referenced tokens, and so-called stablecoins. They also extend to service providers such as trading platforms and digital wallets where crypto-assets are stored. The objective of this regulatory structure is to protect investors, maintain financial stability, promote innovation, and enhance the appeal of the crypto-asset sector. See more at https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2022/06/30/digital-financeagreement-reached-on-european-crypto-assets-regulation-mica/ .

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Acknowledgements

This paper benefited from excellent comments and suggestions from Lemma W. Senbet (editor) and two anonymous referees. We appreciate the editorial assistance of Kay Jaitly, CFA.

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Appendix: DeFi Industries

DeFi Industries: This table provides a brief description of each DeFi industry reported in Table 1 .

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Harvey, C.R., Rabetti, D. International business and decentralized finance. J Int Bus Stud (2024). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41267-024-00705-7

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On the MSc International Business programme you will benefit from these international industrial links and will join an innovative community of learners studying International Business.

Who is this course for?

This programme is for those interested in current international issues and who want to start a global career in business management.

Why study this course at Birmingham?

Join an international cohort of students with access to a diverse learning community and opportunities to study abroad at our Dubai and Singapore campuses.
Birmingham is the UK’s second city and is located at the heart of the country, making it a well-connected business hub to some of the largest global companies.
Our International Business programme is a pathway-to-practice , co-created by employers, alumni, and academics, to ensure you are well-equipped to take on lead roles once you graduate.
The University of Birmingham is a globally-ranked, world –top 100 university and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group.
Birmingham Business School is part of an elite group of global business schools that holds the Triple-Crown accreditation from leading bodies AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB.

Discover our unique scholarship offers

These awards are available to both UK and international applicants and range in value from partial to full tuition fee support.

Find out more about our scholarship offers

Study in Dubai

Places are also available on the MSc International Business degree at our campus in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC). Our leading academic staff teach to the same standards as our UK based programmes and you will graduate with the same MSc degree from the University of Birmingham. Dubai is a rapidly developing, cosmopolitan city that offers an exciting experience and a world of opportunity to students.

Study MSc International Business in Dubai

Study in Singapore

view of some of the campus buildings at the Singapore Institute of Management

Study MSc International Business in Singapore

Celebrating 20 years

My connections from the MSc International Business have opened doors to international opportunities and provided insights into different markets and industries. Irmak Yolcu, Senior Business Development Manager

2023-2024 marks the 20th anniversary of our MSc International Business. Our graduates are working across the globe in a variety of organisations, industries and positions. Read about their journeys here .

Unless indicated otherwise the modules listed for this programme are for students starting in 2024.

Core modules

International Business (20 credits)
International Strategy (20 credits)
Practising and Managing International Business (20 credits)
Dissertation (60 credits)

You will then choose 3 optional modules from the list below. Each module is worth 20 credits.

International Business Data Analytics
Cooperative Strategy in International Business
International Entrepreneurship and Marketing
Global Operations and Supply Chain Management
Governance and Global Responsibility
Disruptive Innovation and International Business

Depending on availability, you may be able to apply to study abroad (e.g., Dubai campus, or the Singapore Institute of Management) for one of your second semester 20 credit modules.

Please note: The modules listed on the website for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. On rare occasions, we may need to make unexpected changes to compulsory modules; in this event we will contact offer holders as soon as possible to inform or consult them as appropriate.

Fees for 2024 - 2025

£15,030 (UK)
£30,330 (International)

Please note that you will be required to pay a £50 non-refundable application fee for all of the above courses.

For further information on programme fees and information please visit our Fees and Financing page.

Scholarships

For information on scholarships you may be eligible to apply for, please use our PG Funding Database .
Business School Scholarships may be available, find out more about our scholarships .

Additional Course Costs

In addition to the Tuition Fees you will need to consider accommodation, living expenses and daily costs. You can find financial advice and support on our Finance pages.
For information on our accommodation and services, including the support we offer to students wanting to rent privately, please visit the Accommodation pages.

Questions about funding? Use our Student Help knowledge base to find the answer.

How To Apply

1 June 2024 is the application deadline for international students applying through the student route who wish to study in the United Kingdom. We are not able to consider applications for 2024 made after this date. The deadline for Home students is 30 August 2024.

Before you submit your application, you should have the following supporting documents:

Evidence of your academic and/or professional qualifications
An up-to-date copy of your resume or CV
One academic reference , and one work related reference (if you don't have an academic reference, we will accept two work references)
Your personal statement , including why you wish to apply to the MBA course, why you have chosen to apply to the Birmingham MBA in particular, highlights of your career to date, examples of managerial responsibility, and your career aspirations for the future (maximum 2 pages)
How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate taught programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

In order to be considered, applicants will have or should be expecting to achieve an Honours degree (2:1 or higher) or postgraduate diploma from a UK university (or overseas equivalent) in any subject.

Applicants who demonstrate being able to exceed the minimum entry requirements will be given preference.

International Requirements

Holders of a Licence, Diplome, Diplome d'Etudes Superieures, Diplome d'Ingenieur or a Diplome d'Architecte from a recognised university in Algeria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of one of these qualifications will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 for 2:1 equivalency or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

A Bachelors (Honours) degree from an accredited Australian higher education institution may be considered for admission to a Masters degree. Applicants with 3 year Bachelors with distinction from a recognised university, can be considered for admission to a Masters degree.

Holders of a Diplom, a Diplomstudium/Magister or a three-year Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, or a high-scoring Fachhochschuldiplom (FH) from a recognised Austrian Fachhochschule, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Holders of a bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Bahrain will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of three years duration, followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration from a recognised university in Bangladesh will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least four years duration may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Bangladesh.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6-3.1/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma za Zavarsheno Visshe Obrazovanie (‘Diploma of Completed Higher Education’), a pre-2001 Masters degree or a post-2001 Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 5 out of 6, mnogo dobur/’very good’ for 2:1 equivalence; or 4 out of 6, dobur/’good’ for 2:2 equivalence; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below. Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table) , Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。请注意，中国院校名单参考软科中国大学排名2022（总榜），软科中国大学排名2023（总榜），以及软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。

Business School - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies 全部硕士课程 International Development Department 全部硕士课程

All other programmes (including MBA) 所有其他硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室 [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma Visoko Obrazovanje (Advanced Diploma of Education) or Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, for 2:1 equivalence or 3.0 out of 5.0, dobar ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below. Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Holders of a good four-year government-accredited Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education college with a minimum overall GPA of 3 out of 4 for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.75 out of 4 for 2:2 equivalency; or a good four-year Bachelors degree (Ptychio) from a recognised University, with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 for 2:2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Bakalár, or a good pre-2002 Magistr, from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), for 2:1 equivalence, or 2.5, C, dobre ‘good’ (post-2004) or 3, dobre ‘pass’ (pre-2004) for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree/Candidatus Philosophiae, Professionbachelor or Eksamensbevis from a recognised Danish university, with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or 4-7 out of 12 (or 7 out of 13) for 2:2 equivalence depending on the awarding institution will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent. Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Egypt will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants holding a Bachelors degree with alternative grading systems, will normally be expected to have achieved a 75% (Very Good) for 2:1 equivalency or 65% (Good) for 2:2 equivalency. For applicants with a grading system different to those mentioned here, please contact [email protected] for advice on what the requirements will be for you.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university or Applied Higher Education Institution with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B for 2:1 equivalency or 3/5 or C for 2:2 equivalency, or a good Rakenduskõrgharidusõppe Diplom (Professional Higher Education Diploma), will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a good Ammattikorkeakoulututkinto (AMK) (new system), an Yrkeshögskoleexamen (YHS) (new system), a Kandidaatti / Kandidat (new system), an Oikeustieteen Notaari or a Rättsnotarie, a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 3-4/5 for 2:1 equivalence or 1-2/3 or 2.5-3/5 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good three-year Licence, License Professionnelle, Diplôme d'Ingénieur/Architecte Diplômé d'État, Diplôme from an Ecole Superieure de Commerce / Gestion / Politique, or Diplome d'Etat Maitrise of three years duration or a Maîtrise from a recognised French university or Grande École will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, bien, for 2:1 equivalency, or 11 out of 20, assez bien, for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Holders of a good three-year Bachelor degree, a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university, or a good Fachhochschuldiplom from a Fachhochschule (university of applied sciences), with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students from Germany who have completed three years of the Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 10 from the first six semesters of study within the Juristische Universitätsprüfung programme would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes. Students from Germany who have completed the five year Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 6.5 would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) from a recognised Greek university (AEI) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, or a good four-year Ptychio from a recognised Technical Higher Education institution (TEI) with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2. Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés (Bachelors degree) or Egyetemi Oklevel (university diploma) from a recognised Hungarian university, or a Foiskola Oklevel (college diploma) from a recognised college of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 3.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of three or four years in duration from a recognised university in India will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 55% - 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or 50% - 55% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Either: A four-year Bachelors degree (first class or very good upper second class)

Or: A three-year Bachelors degree (first class) from recognised institutions in India.

For MSc programmes, the Business School will consider holders of three-year degree programmes (first class or very good upper second class) from recognised institutions in India.

For entry to LLM programmes, Birmingham is happy to accept applications from 3 or 5 year LLB holders from India from prestigious institutions.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iran with a minimum of 14/20 or 70% will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate taught programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iraq will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Israel will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 80% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a good Diploma di Laurea, Licenza di Accademia di Belle Arti, Diploma di Mediatore Linguistico or Diploma Accademico di Primo Livello from a recognised Italian university with a minimum overall grade of 100 out of 110 for 2:1 equivalence, or 92 out of 110 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Jordan will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees. Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Kuwait will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a good pre-2000 Magistrs or post-2000 Bakalaurs from a recognised university, or a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Lebanon will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 16/20 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency, or 14/20 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good Bakalauras (post 2001), Profesinis Bakalauras (post 2001) or pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree or Diplôme d'Ingénieur Industriel from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20 for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education Institution with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons) for UK 2:1 equivalency, or 2:2 (Hons) for UK 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise from a recognised university in Morocco will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Nepal will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration plus a Masters degree may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Nepal.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 or 65%-79% average or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 60%-65% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Dutch university, or Bachelors degree from a recognised Hogeschool (University of Professional Education), or a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university, with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good three-six-year Bachelorgrad, Candidatus Magisterii, Sivilingeniø (siv. Ing. - Engineering), "Siviløkonom" (siv. Øk. - Economics) degree from a recognised Norwegian education institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, or a GPA of C/Good or 2.6-3.2 for a 2.2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Oman will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years in duration from a recognised university in Pakistan will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration, or holders of a two year Bachelors degree and a two year Masters degree in the same subject, may also be considered for postgraduate study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 2.8-3.0/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

A two-year degree followed by a three-year LLB will count as a full Bachelors degree.

All qualifications must be from recognised institutions. For further details on recognised institutions, please refer to Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent. The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters. Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Licenciado, with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent. The Grado de Bachiller is equivalent to an ordinary degree, so grades of 15+/20 are required. Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good post-2001 Licencjat / Inzynier (Bachelors degree), or a pre-2001 Magister, from a recognised Polish university, with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus ‘better than good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 4 out of 5, dobry 'good' for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, bom com distinção ‘good with distinction’, for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20, bom ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Qatar will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a good Diplomă de Licenţă, Diplomă de Inginer, Diplomă de Urbanist Diplomat, Diplomă de Arhitect, Diplomă de Farmacist or Diplomã de Doctor-Medic Arhitect (Bachelors degree) from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Диплом Бакалавра (Bakalavr) degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 from recognised universities in Russia may be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/MPhil degrees.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the Saudi Arabia will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 2, C, Dobrý ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7.0 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Título de Licenciado / Título Universitario Oficial de Graduado (Grado) /Título de Ingeniero / Título de Arquitecto from a recognised Spanish university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Special or Professional Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Sri Lanka will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or B+ for 2:1 equivalency, or 55-59% or a CGPA 3.0/4.0 or B for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd) for 2:1 equivalency, or G (godkänd) for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good " Baccalauréat universitaire/ Diplom / Diplôme; Lizentiat / Licence; Staatsdiplom / Diplôme d'Etat" degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Syria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70%, or ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalency or 60%, or ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level. Holders of Bachelors degree from prestigious institutions (see list below) will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.7 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants with grades slightly below these requirements may also be considered for an offer if they have a relevant Bachelors degree, good scores in relevant modules, or relevant work experience.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from all other institutions will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency.

Prestigious institutions: Assumption University Chiang Mai University Chulalongkorn University Kasetsart University Khon Kaen University King Mongkut University of Technology - Thonburi (known as KMUTT or KMUT) Mahidol University Prince of Songla University Srinakharinwirot University Thammasat University

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Caribbean and West Indies university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
De La Salle University - Manila
University of Santo Tomas
University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study. Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the UAE will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good four-year Bachelors degree/ Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or a GPA of 3.5/5.0, 3.0/4, 6/12 or 70% for 2:2 equivalence, depending on the awarding institution, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement
3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1. Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level. Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

International Students

Standard English language requirements apply (IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band).

IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any band)
TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing
Pearson Test of English (PTE) including online: PTE Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced or Proficiency – minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

If you are currently studying at a Chinese university, please view our specific entry requirements including our list of acceptable universities for further study at Birmingham .

English Presessional Programmes

If you’re looking to improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham, our pre-sessional English courses are for you. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications. Find out more

Birmingham has strong links with industry meaning your academic study will be combined with a real practical focus, leading to excellent job opportunities.

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Assessment Methods

Taught modules contribute towards two thirds of your final assessment. The dissertation contributes one third. Modules are assessed using written examinations and coursework. Coursework can take a variety of forms, including reports, essays, group presentations and practical assignments. Some coursework is group based.

Get prepared for the real world of business

This programme will ensure you are practice-ready and able to tackle real-life challenges in international business. Working with real databases and business case studies, this programme will support you to develop the key skills that are in demand by organisations across the world.

Be part of an international learning community

Gain experience of working in a diverse team by working closely with our student cohorts at our Edgbaston, Dubai, and Singapore campuses. This programme also provides students with the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities.

Employability is placed at the forefront

The programme is designed to enhance your employability by building your knowledge in key areas of international business such as cooperative strategy, global operations, business analytics, marketing, and global responsibility.

You will also have the opportunity to draw on the talents of our alumni who are very much integrated into the programme. With their expertise, combined with the breadth of the syllabus, this Masters programme will prepare you for a successful international career.

Our graduates have gone on to have careers in the following roles:

Marketing Executive
Financial Auditor
Project Manager
Digital Marketing Specialist
Operations Manager
Communications Analyst
Human Resources Advisor
Management Consultant
Cyber Security Analyst
Risk Advisory Consultant
Assistant Brand Manager
Strategic Projects Analyst

BBS Careers and Careers Network

As a Birmingham Business School student, you will benefit from two award-winning Careers teams.

Careers Network is the University of Birmingham careers and employability team offering: career fairs, employer events with top firms across the UK, start-up and entrepreneurial activities, and support. Internships and bursaries are also available exclusively to University of Birmingham students.

BBS Careers is a dedicated service for Birmingham Business School students. The team provides guidance, support, and work experience opportunities, tailored to business school students, to help you succeed during and after university. We offer workshops, alumni and employer events, and 1-to-1 consultations. These will help you to develop your skills and learn how to submit high-quality internship and graduate applications.

BBS Careers is one of a few, if not the only business school career service to offer life-long support.

We are here to support you! Whether you are applying for postgraduate end-of-study internship, a graduate job, or applying for a management role five years after graduation.

Visit the BBS website for more details

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29 International Business Dissertation Topics Ideas

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Quite a long time ago, businesses tend to be limited to their places of origins only. However, since the world has turned into a global village, the business domain has also been affected greatly by this transformation. International business dissertation topics include opportunities and challenges that the local businesses can face in the international platforms. In the same way, solutions to meet with these challenges are also studied under MBA dissertation topics in international business. All in all, international business is a very rich subject area and has broad practical applications as well. In fact, successful and competitive large international organizations keep on tracking new research studies to benefit from their results.

International Business Dissertation Topics

We have prepared an interesting list of research topics in international business for our client as below:

International business in a digital world: challenges and opportunities available.
Teaching international business at the university levels: comparing developed and developing countries of the world.
Research in the domain of international business: how things have changed over the course of last ten years?
Ethics and international business: differences in actual practices and theoretical frameworks.
Culture and international business: how multinationals control this aspect in their working?
Bribery in international business: understanding the concept, the challenges and the solutions in a global environment.
Future global managers and international business: training and management in developed countries of the world.
International governments and international business: understanding the association.
Role played by language in an international business domain: is English the only global language?
International business negotiations: a systematic analysis.
Studying the impacts of international trade agreements on the domain of international business: a systematic analysis.
Impacts of China’s transitions on the overall international business domain: connecting past with the present and future.
Challenges and opportunities in tourism as an international business domain: a descriptive analysis.
Integrated risk management in the international business domain: a review of literature.
International business relationships: comparing the developing and developed economies of the world.
Politics and international business: how things have change dover the course of past 20 years?
Corporate social responsibility, sustainable development and international business: a descriptive study.
Studying the effects of trade interdependence on the overall international business cycle: a systematic analysis.
International business post COVID-19 pandemic: review of literature from the past two years.
Uncertainty in international business: uncovering the challenges and interventions involved.
Studying the correlation between trust, morality and international business: a quantitative study.
How the area of international business has been affected by terrorism? A review of literature.
Role played by Commitment-Trust theory in the international business domain.
Role played by global banking in the international business area.
Studying the correlation between religion and international business: a systematic analysis.
Corporate social responsibility and multinationals in the context of host countries.
Offshore outsourcing and international business: a descriptive analysis.
International business and global union federations: a systematic analysis.
International business research: importance of mixed-method approach.

These are 29 International Business Dissertation Topics Ideas also check our related posts for Business Intelligence Dissertation Topics and Business Studies Dissertation Topics.

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Dissertation examples

Listed below are some of the best examples of research projects and dissertations from undergraduate and taught postgraduate students at the University of Leeds We have not been able to gather examples from all schools. The module requirements for research projects may have changed since these examples were written. Refer to your module guidelines to make sure that you address all of the current assessment criteria. Some of the examples below are only available to access on campus.

Undergraduate examples
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A Model for Expanding Your Business into Foreign Markets

Joshua Conrad Jackson

Four strategies leaders should adopt when taking their brand abroad.

It used to be thought that globalization would flatten out cultural differences among countries and regions of the world, making it easier than ever for companies to move into foreign markets. According to a new study by the author and a colleague, however, cultural differences are greater today than they were 40 years ago, which explains why some major corporations have failed in their recent efforts to establish a foothold in new countries. Companies need to adapt, the author argues, and to that end in this article he presents a general model for global leadership in the face of cultural divergence.

Walmart in the 1990s seemed on pace to become a global giant. After rapid growth in the U.S. domestic market throughout the 1980s, the company opened its first international store in Mexico City in 1991, followed by Canada in 1994. By 1998 it had expanded to Germany and South Korea, betting that its “always the low price” approach to business would be enough to outcompete foreign vendors.

Joshua Conrad Jackson is a Neubauer Family Assistant Professor at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'International business enterprises - Indonesia'

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Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'International business enterprises - Indonesia.'

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Setiawan, Agus. "The evaluation of corporate governance practise in Indonesia a case study /." Access electronically, 2007. http://www.library.uow.edu.au/adt-NWU/public/adt-NWU20080318.115111/index.html.

Gullarbergs, Frida, and Emma Haugland. "The Wave of the Social Enterprise : A Single Case Study on an International Social Enterprise Operating in Indonesia." Thesis, Linnéuniversitetet, Institutionen för marknadsföring (MF), 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:lnu:diva-96336.

Agustini, Maria Y. D. H. "Understanding variety in small firm internationalization : the decison-making process of small manufacturing firms in Indonesia." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2013. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/702.

Field, Elliot R. "Thinking outside the triangle collusion and rivalry between transnational corporations and the state in Batam, Indonesia /." Ohio : Ohio University, 2006. http://www.ohiolink.edu/etd/view.cgi?ohiou1149640149.

Leith, Andrew Roydon. "Competitiveness of Australian small to medium enterprises in Indonesia /." View thesis View thesis, 2000. http://library.uws.edu.au/adt-NUWS/public/adt-NUWS20030429.163902/index.html.

Terra, Paulo Renato Soares. "Three essays on international business." Thesis, McGill University, 2002. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=84202.

Leith, Andrew R., of Western Sydney Hawkesbury University, and Faculty of Management. "Competitiveness of Australian small to medium enterprises in Indonesia." THESIS_FMAN_XXX_Leith_A.xml, 2000. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/512.

Lu, Yi. "Essays on multinational enterprises." Click to view the E-thesis via HKUTO, 2007. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record/B38999754.

Klug, Michael. "Market entry strategies in Eastern Europe in the context of the European Union an empirical research into German firms entering the Polish market /." Wiesbaden : Deutscher Universitäts-Verlag, 2006. http://www.myilibrary.com?id=134362.

Djamhari, Choirul. "Privatization of state controlled enterprises in Indonesia (1983-1993) : policy and practice." Thesis, McGill University, 1996. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=42015.

Draper, David M. "Connecting global performance support a horizontal and vertical performance analysis for a sustainable training and development support network within a global multinational enterprise /." Menomonie, WI : University of Wisconsin--Stout, 2007. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2007/2007draperd.pdf.

Cheng, Xiao Wei. "The impacts of internationalization on performance of New Zealand firms a dissertation submitted to Auckland University of Technology in fulfillment [sic] of the requirements for the degree of Master of Business (MBus), 2009 /." Click here to access this resource online, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10292/767.

Härkönen, J. (Jere). "Multinational enterprises as potential acquirers." Bachelor's thesis, University of Oulu, 2017. http://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:oulu-201711283181.

Chik, Sing-wing. "Case studies of international joint venture /." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 1997. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B18835867.

Lu, Yi, and 陸毅. "Essays on multinational enterprises." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2007. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B38999754.

Heinzel, Sebastian. "Die mit den Wölfen heulen : österreichische Unternehmen und Korruption in Osteuropa /." Wien : Lit, 2006. http://www.loc.gov/catdir/toc/fy0803/2007462204.html.

Hutton, Elizabeth Anne. "The impact of multinational corporations on manufacturing : a comparative study of Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore /." [Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong], 1985. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B12323585.

Bent, Peter. "The roles of legitimacy in the internationalisation of small to medium high-technology firms /." [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2003. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe17928.pdf.

Radulovich, Lori Ann Petrill. "An empirical examination of the factors affecting the internationalization of professional service SMEs the case of India /." Cleveland, Ohio : Cleveland State University, 2008. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1228610785.

Kettunen, V. (Virve). "Managing international partner opportunism:roles of trust and culture in Indonesia." Master's thesis, University of Oulu, 2015. http://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:oulu-201503121153.

Osman-Gani, AAhad M. "International transfer of management technology within a multinational enterprise : a cross-national study of managers' perceptions /." Connect to resource, 1992. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc%5Fnum=osu1240419117.

Stanbury, John Anthony Charles. "An exploratory empirical study of the international consulting engineering design services industry : a U.S. perspective." Connect to resource, 1992. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view.cgi?acc%5Fnum=osu1262890444.

Kambaran, Vickesh. "Using a local network to support internationalisation : a case study from New Zealand : a thesis submitted to the Victoria University of Wellington in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Management Studies /." ResearchArchive@Victoria e-Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10063/1068.

Moutchnik, Alexander. "Standardization of corporate environmental management : business case, multinational cement corporation /." Marburg : Metropolis, 2007. http://www.loc.gov/catdir/toc/fy1001/2008395038.html.

Ruckman, Karen Elizabeth. "Essays on international business strategy of non-traditional goods." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2001. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp04/NQ61168.pdf.

Reiche, Bjoern Sebastian. "Knowledge sharing through inpatriate assignments in multinational corporations : a social capital perspective /." Connect to thesis, 2007. http://eprints.unimelb.edu.au/archive/00003635.

Lu, Jiangyong, and 路江淵. "Studies on the business organizations in China." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2004. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B2950336X.

Thoumrungroje, Amonrat. "The effects of globalization on marketing strategy and performance." Online access for everyone, 2004. http://www.dissertations.wsu.edu/Dissertations/Spring2004/a%5Fthoumrungroje%5F042804.pdf.

Hogg, David. "Mode of entry observations for environmental based INVs (International New Ventures) this thesis is submitted to Auckland University of Technology as part of the degree in Master of Business majoring in International Business, submitted 2002." Abstract. Full thesis, 2002. http://puka2.aut.ac.nz/ait/theses/HoggD.pdf.

Dowejko, Marta Katarzyna. "What makes international new ventures grow and survive?: the interplay of social capital and dynamic capabilitiesin achieving evolutionary fitness." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2012. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B48199229.

Silberzahn, Raphael Tobias. "Three essays on managerial interactions in the MNE : managerial focus, status dynamics and the generation of new ideas." Thesis, University of Cambridge, 2014. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.708271.

Célestin, Lindsay C. "The formulary approach to the taxation of transnational corporations a realistic alternative? /." Connect to full text, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/846.

Xu, Hang. "Multinational enterprises' entrance strategy in China a comparative study of DHL and UPS (1986-2006) /." Click to view the E-thesis via HKUTO, 2008. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record/B41548747.

Yung, Herbert. "Multi-national corporations in China a comparative study of regional headquarters in Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai /." Click to view the E-thesis via HKUTO, 2008. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record/B41548838.

Muringaseril, Sigu. "Control concepts in multinational corporations (MNCs) the case of Swiss MNCs with foriegn subsidiaries in India /." Niedermann Druck, St. Gallen : Univ. of St. Gallen, 2007. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=buh&AN=35635054&site=ehost-live.

Kettunen, T. M. (Titta-Maria). "Social value creation abroad:social enterprises’ adaptation to foreign environments." Master's thesis, University of Oulu, 2015. http://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:oulu-201503121144.

Tsang, Wai-ling Brenda. "To study the employment practices and their local adaptation of eight American MNCs in Hong Kong /." [Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong], 1994. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B13787731.

Stewart, Pamela Jo. "Expatriation and international human resource management." Thesis, Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 2000. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B22763193.

Sarosa, Samiaji. "The information technology adoption process within Indonesian small and medium enterprises." University of Technology, Sydney. Faculty of Information Technology, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/2100/427.

Hau, Le Nguyen. "Acquiring marketing knowledge through international joint ventures." View thesis, 2005. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/22517.

Sutton-Brady, Catherine, University of Western Sydney, College of Law and Business, and School of Marketing and International Business. "A study of atmosphere in international inter-firm relationships." THESIS_CLAB_MIB_SuttonBrady_M.xml, 2001. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/416.

Porter, Tony (Anthony) Carleton University Dissertation Political Science. "Inter-state and private regimes in global finance." Ottawa, 1992.

Pumar, Jose. "Global manufacturing facility design." Online version, 2002. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2002/2002pumarj.pdf.

Schutte, Maria Gabriela. "Three essays on firm-specific volatility." Diss., Columbia, Mo. : University of Missouri-Columbia, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10355/5934.

Van, Aswegen Marius. "The establishment of an adjustment model for expatriates." Thesis, Pretoria : [s.n.], 2008. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-11102008-125659/.

Marshall, Ronald Scott. "Cross-cultural perspectives on the dynamic process of cooperation building in international distribution relationships /." view abstract or download file of text, 2000. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/uoregon/fullcit?p9977910.

Kanagbo, Kangoma Anthony. "The role of the state and multinational corporations in development : the case of Malaysia /." Thesis, Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 2001. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B25549388.

Gao, Yong Gerald. "Multinational firms' sequential entry strategies." Click to view the E-thesis via HKUTO, 2006. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record/B36633124.

Wang, Xin. "Implementing capital budgeting for the multinational corporation." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1304.

Wang, Tan. "Headquarters strategic location of multinational corporations and super service hubs development in China." Click to view the E-thesis via HKUTO, 2007. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record/B3777797X.

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List of International business dissertation topics. An analysis of global migrants studying the implications for international business and management. An overview of the recent trends and future challenges in international business, cities, and competitiveness. Exploring the international business in the information and digital age.
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International Trade and Economics

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Introduction

2024 Business Dissertation Topics

Topic 2: The impact of AI-based tools on business decision making and overall organisational profitability.

Topic 3: How does the HRM function impact the business health of organisations?

Topic 4: The impact of corporate governance on firm performance and internationalisation.

Topic 5: An assessment of the impact of materials management on production efficiency and cost optimisation of business

Business Dissertation Topics for 2023

Topic 2: Brand Marketing through social media

Topic 3: Impacts of social media on customer behaviour

Topic 4: What factors influence the consumer's buying decisions?

Topic 5: Black Friday sale strategy to drive sales

Topic 6: The role of Influencer Marketing in increasing sale

Topic 7: Impact of E-marketing on consumer purchase decision: the case of the luxury industry in the UK

Topic 8: Analysis of the customer-centric marketing strategies in attaining competitive advantage for the firm and sustaining business success

Topic 9: Traditional vs. digital marketing: a comparative study of the last ten years

Topic 10: The impact of relationship marketing on customer loyalty: an analysis of the Honda motor

Topic 11: The importance of search Engines in e-commerce

Topic 12: E-Commerce company's advertising strategy-critical analysis

Topic 13: Importance of customer retention in E-commerce

Topic 14: Importance of brand loyalty in internet marketing

Business Dissertation Topics for 2022

Topic 2: How corporate social responsibility (CSR) affects customer loyalty: A case study of the UK petroleum industry

Topic 3: Assessing the leadership styles of a non-profit organisation and how it impacts the overall business operations

Topic 4: Examining the impact of global business negotiations on cross border mergers and acquisitions

Topic 5: Analysing the impact of forwarding and backward integration on business performance and sustainability

Topic C1: The economic suffering due to the plague of COVID-19

Topic C2: The major sufferings in the economy as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak

Topic C3: Expecting changes in the economic statistics by the outbreak of COVID-19

Topic C4: The major regions and business industries affected by the spread of COVID-19

Business Strategy and Globalisation Dissertation Topics

Topic 6: Why organisations and businesses must change their business strategies in the era of globalisation

Topic 7: Business management framework and globalisation – An empirical study

Topic 8: Global business strategy for MNCs and the role of corporate vision, conflicts, and empowerment

Topic 9: Exploring the drivers of Chinese business expansion strategy into Africa and other developing countries

Topic 10: An investigation into the process of offshore outsourcing of customer services to determine causes of poor customer satisfaction

Topic 11: Cross border management strategy – A research study focusing on foreign business organisations in Malaysia

Topic 12: An investigation into the impact of globalisation on UK businesses' operation on both a national and international scale.

Topic 13: How banks can implement business strategies in light of globalisation to improve connectivity with clients – A case of Barclays Plc

Topic 14: A study to examine the factors affecting the MNC’s choice of alliances and entry modes – The case of Sri Lanka

Topic 15: Performance, e-business strategies, and globalisation – Examining the factors affecting social media strategy of business organisations in the UK