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Underperformance duration and R&D internationalization: Institutional contingencies in an emerging economy

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  • Xiao, Shufeng
  • Yu, Tianjiao

Abstract

This paper, based on the behavioral theory of the firm (BTOF), examines the influence of underperformance duration on a firm’s R&D internationalization in terms of both scale and scope. We propose that, under the time pressure stemming from prolonged underperformance, firms increase the scale of their R&D internationalization to expedite the benefits of overseas R&D activities through enhanced synergy and learning effects. Simultaneously, they narrow the geographic scope of foreign R&D efforts to reduce the complexity of coordinating dispersed R&D locations. Additionally, we investigate how the institutional contingencies in emerging economies moderate the time pressure mechanism. We posit that state ownership weakens the relationship between underperformance duration and R&D internationalization strategies (both in terms of scale and scope), whereas regional institutional development strengthens it. We use Heckman’s two-step estimation on a sample of 485 Chinese multinational firms from 2009 to 2018, and find support for our hypotheses.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiao, Shufeng & Yu, Tianjiao, 2024. "Underperformance duration and R&D internationalization: Institutional contingencies in an emerging economy," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 33(4).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:iburev:v:33:y:2024:i:4:s0969593124000490
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ibusrev.2024.102302
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