Title: Antecedents of network strength in foreign-owned subsidiaries: locational, expatriate, and industrial conditions

Authors: Sven Dahms

Addresses: James Cook University Singapore, 149 Sims Drive, 387380, Singapore

Abstract: Although the effects of networks on numerous outcome variables such as performance or innovation have been investigated multiple times in the foreign-owned subsidiary literature, relatively little is known about the antecedents of network relationships. This research addresses this gap in applying configuration theory and network perspectives in order to explain network relationship strength in foreign-owned subsidiaries located in the mid-range emerging economy of Taiwan. The data collected from a large-scale survey is analysed using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis method. The results show that there are a number of different solutions that can lead to increased network strength. These solutions, consisting of industrial, locational, and expatriate conditions also vary with the kind of networks. We hence find strong support for equifinality in MNE networks, local non-business networks and local business networks strength development.

Keywords: foreign-owned subsidiaries; FOSs; fuzzy sets; expatriates; global cities; geographic distance; networks.

DOI: 10.1504/JIBED.2018.095151

Journal for International Business and Entrepreneurship Development, 2018 Vol.11 No.3, pp.187 - 200

Received: 10 Jul 2017
Accepted: 01 Feb 2018
Published online: 01 Oct 2018 *

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