Example International Business Topic 1
The Role of Dynamic Resources in Driving International Entrepreneurship: Investigating Strategic Innovations in Emerging Markets
This topic would explore the critical role of resource acquisition, deployment, and adaptation in fostering international entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in the context of emerging markets. The research would examine the interaction between tangible (financial capital, technology) and intangible (human capital, social networks) resources, evaluating their contribution to entrepreneurial success in international markets. A key focus would be on understanding how these resources enable strategic innovations, sustain competitive advantage, and promote international expansion.
Suggested Research Questions:
- How do emerging-market entrepreneurs leverage limited resources to achieve international success?
- What role does the adaptation of resources play in responding to market-specific challenges in international ventures?
- How do entrepreneurial strategies evolve as firms transition from local to global markets?
Proposed Methodology:
- Mixed-method approach combining quantitative surveys of international entrepreneurs with qualitative case studies.
- Cross-sectional data collection from diverse emerging markets for broader insights.
Potential Implications:
- Contributions to theoretical models on resource-based perspectives in international entrepreneurship.
- Practical guidelines for policymakers to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems in emerging markets.
Suggested Initial Topic Reading:
- Coviello, N.E., & Jones, M.V. (2004). 'Methodological issues in international entrepreneurship research', Journal of Business Venturing, Vol. 19(4), pp. 485–508.
- Zahra, S.A., & George, G. (2002). 'Absorptive capacity: A review, reconceptualization, and extension', Academy of Management Review, Vol. 27(2), pp. 185–203.
- Bruton, G.D., Ahlstrom, D., & Obloj, K. (2008). 'Entrepreneurship in emerging economies: Where are we today and where should the research go in the future?' Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, Vol. 32(1), pp. 1–14.
Example International Business Topic 2
Exploring the Interplay Between Cultural Dimensions and Regional Economic Integration: Lessons from ASEAN-5 Nations
The ASEAN-5 countries—Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand—are characterized by their rich cultural diversity and unique socio-economic landscapes. As members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), these nations are key players in fostering regional integration to enhance economic growth, reduce trade barriers, and build resilient economies.
Cultural dimensions, such as religion, traditional values, and social norms, play a significant role in shaping the business environment, influencing trade relations, and determining the efficacy of economic policies. In ASEAN-5, religion is deeply embedded in the socio-economic fabric, with Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity being predominant in various nations. These cultural factors not only shape domestic policies but also influence cross-border cooperation and integration strategies within the region.
Regional integration, driven by initiatives such as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), seeks to enhance trade openness and economic collaboration. However, the extent to which cultural dimensions support or hinder these efforts remains underexplored. For instance, cultural similarities may promote stronger intra-regional trade, while differences could present challenges to policy harmonization and market integration.
Understanding the interplay between cultural dimensions and economic integration in ASEAN-5 is crucial for developing inclusive policies that respect cultural heritage while maximizing economic potential. Such insights are especially relevant in a globalized economy where cultural diversity can be leveraged as an asset in trade, tourism, and investment. This research direction aims to uncover the mechanisms by which cultural dynamics influence regional integration and economic outcomes, offering actionable lessons for policymakers and business leaders in ASEAN and beyond.
Suggested Research Questions
- How do cultural and religious dynamics influence the economic integration of ASEAN-5 countries?
- What role does trade openness play in mediating the impact of cultural diversity on regional economic performance?
- How can policymakers balance the promotion of cultural heritage with the objectives of economic integration and modernization?
Hypotheses
- H1: Cultural and religious diversity positively influences regional economic integration by fostering tourism and soft power.
- H2: Increased trade openness mediates the relationship between cultural dimensions and economic growth, amplifying positive outcomes.
- H3: Cultural heritage promotion can significantly boost regional economic resilience through enhanced tourism and global engagement.
Potential Implications
- Policy Implications: Inform policies that leverage cultural diversity as a competitive advantage in regional and global trade.
- Economic Development: Provide insights into strategies for integrating cultural and religious dimensions into regional economic policies.
- Social Impact: Promote cultural cohesion and understanding to mitigate the risks of cultural clashes in an integrated economic space.
Suggested Initial Topic Reading
- Manapat, C.L. and Cabauatan, R.R. (2025). Regional Integration and Economic Growth in ASEAN-5: A Panel Data Regression Approach. Review of Integrative Business and Economics Research, 14(1), pp.210-222. Available at: https://buscompress.com/uploads/3/4/9/8/34980536/riber_14-1_13_b24-076_210-222.pdf [Accessed 2 Jan. 2025].
- Ghosh, S. & Yamarik, S. (2004). "Are regional trading arrangements trade creating? An application of extreme bounds analysis," Journal of International Economics, Vol. 63(2), pp. 369–395.
- Todaro, M. P., & Smith, S. C. (2015). Economic Development. Pearson Education.
- Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's Consequences: Comparing Values, Behaviors, Institutions and Organizations Across Nations. Sage Publications.
Example International Business Topic 3
Sociopsychological Impacts of Deglobalization on Tourist Identity and Behavior
Context:
The constraints imposed by deglobalization significantly influence tourists’ self-perceptions, group affiliations, and mental well-being. Understanding how these restrictions shape identity and coping mechanisms offers valuable insights into evolving travel behaviors.
Suggested Research Questions:
- How do limitations on global mobility affect individual and collective tourist identities?
- What are the coping strategies tourists adopt to mitigate stress and anxiety caused by restricted travel?
- How do sociopsychological factors influence the formation of tourist preferences in deglobalized environments?
Hypotheses:
- H1: Restricted mobility leads to increased stress and anxiety among tourists, influencing travel attitudes and behavior.
- H2: Tourists develop adaptive coping mechanisms, such as virtual travel, to counteract the psychological effects of deglobalization.
Potential Implications:
- Insights into the psychological resilience of tourists can inform mental health support strategies within the tourism industry.
- Development of innovative tourism products addressing the needs of constrained tourists.
Suggested Reading:
- Yousaf, S. (2025). Emergence of deglobalized tourist segments: Trends, challenges, and future research directions. Tourism Management, 106, 105005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2024.105005 [Accessed 2 Jan. 2025].
- Pearce, P. L. (2005). Tourist Behaviour: Themes and Conceptual Schemes.
- Cohen, E. (1979). "A Phenomenology of Tourist Experiences," Sociology.
Example International Business Topic 4
Cultural Exchange in a Divided World: Host-Guest Dynamics in Deglobalized Tourism
Context:
Cultural adaptation and integration are increasingly relevant in destinations with significant cultural differences. This research explores how deglobalization shapes host-tourist interactions and cultural exchange processes.
Suggested Research Questions:
- How do host communities perceive and interact with culturally diverse tourists in deglobalized contexts?
- What factors enhance positive cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between hosts and tourists?
- How can inclusive tourism practices foster equitable and respectful cultural interactions?
Hypotheses:
- H1: Positive host-tourist interactions are influenced by mutual understanding and reduced cultural stereotyping.
- H2: Inclusive tourism practices significantly improve perceptions of cultural diversity among hosts.
Potential Implications:
- Enhanced community engagement strategies for host destinations.
- Practical frameworks for fostering positive cultural exchanges in tourism.
Suggested Reading:
- Yousaf, S. (2025). Emergence of deglobalized tourist segments: Trends, challenges, and future research directions. Tourism Management, 106, 105005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2024.105005 [Accessed 2 Jan. 2025].
- Smith, V. L. (1989). Hosts and Guests: The Anthropology of Tourism.
- MacCannell, D. (1999). The Tourist: A New Theory of the Leisure Class.
Example International Business Topic 5
Digital Nomadism and Virtual Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges in Deglobalized Contexts
Context:
Emerging modalities like digital nomadism and virtual tourism have redefined travel in response to restricted physical mobility. This research explores their potential to bridge cultural divides and enhance global connectivity amidst deglobalization.
Suggested Research Questions:
- How do virtual reality and digital platforms mitigate the effects of restricted mobility on tourists?
- What role do digital nomadism and virtual tourism play in fostering cross-cultural exchange?
- How can tourism recommender systems influence travel behavior in deglobalized settings?
Hypotheses:
- H1: Virtual tourism effectively substitutes physical travel by fostering immersive cultural experiences.
- H2: Digital nomadism contributes to cultural exchange and global connectivity despite geopolitical constraints.
Potential Implications:
- Identification of innovative strategies for integrating technology into tourism offerings.
- Improved understanding of how digital platforms shape travel behavior and destination choices.
Suggested Reading:
- Yousaf, S. (2025). Emergence of deglobalized tourist segments: Trends, challenges, and future research directions. Tourism Management, 106, 105005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2024.105005 [Accessed 2 Jan. 2025].
- Gretzel, U., Sigala, M., Xiang, Z., & Koo, C. (2015). "Smart tourism: Foundations and developments," Electronic Markets.
- Buhalis, D., & Law, R. (2008). "Progress in tourism management: Twenty years on and 10 years after the internet: The state of eTourism research," Tourism Management.
Example International Business Topic 6
Economic Resilience and Deglobalization: Impacts on Tourism-Dependent Economies
Context:
Deglobalization significantly alters economic landscapes, particularly for tourism-dependent economies. This research examines the socio-economic effects of shifting tourist preferences towards localized experiences.
Suggested Research Questions:
- How does deglobalization affect job markets and regional economies reliant on international tourism?
- What are the socio-economic benefits of promoting domestic tourism in deglobalized contexts?
- How can local tourism bolster economic resilience while supporting sustainable development?
Hypotheses:
- H1: Shifting tourist preferences towards localized experiences enhance the economic resilience of tourism-dependent regions.
- H2: Promotion of domestic tourism significantly mitigates the negative economic impacts of deglobalization on job markets.
Potential Implications:
- Practical strategies for leveraging local tourism to sustain regional economies.
- Insights into balancing economic sustainability with cultural preservation in tourism-dependent regions.
Suggested Reading:
- Yousaf, S. (2025). Emergence of deglobalized tourist segments: Trends, challenges, and future research directions. Tourism Management, 106, 105005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2024.105005 [Accessed 2 Jan. 2025].
- Weaver, D.B. (2006). Sustainable Tourism: Theory and Practice.
- Hall, C.M., & Page, S.J. (2014). The Geography of Tourism and Recreation: Environment, Place and Space.
