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Diplomatic relations and cross-border investments in the European Union

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  • Damioli, Giacomo
  • Gregori, Wildmer Daniel

Abstract

This study investigates the extent to which diplomatic relations are related to cross-border merger and acquisition (M&A) activities in the European Union during the years 2001–2019. Implementing a gravity model, we find a positive relationship between diplomatic distance and M&A activities, meaning that weaker diplomatic relations are linked to increases in inward M&As. This finding holds when foreign investors target high-tech firms, are private rather than state-owned enterprises, or buy larger shares of the target companies. This evidence suggests that cross-border acquisitions could be a way for the investing firm to mitigate issues related to weak diplomatic relations, such as access to host markets’ information and technological knowledge.

Suggested Citation

  • Damioli, Giacomo & Gregori, Wildmer Daniel, 2023. "Diplomatic relations and cross-border investments in the European Union," European Journal of Political Economy, Elsevier, vol. 76(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:poleco:v:76:y:2023:i:c:s0176268022000659
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpoleco.2022.102261
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Diplomatic relations; Cross-border M&As; EU; Foreign location choices; Gravity model;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F21 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Investment; Long-Term Capital Movements
    • F52 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - National Security; Economic Nationalism
    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • P16 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Capitalist Institutions; Welfare State

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