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Managerial ties and knowledge transfer in business ecosystems: Evidence from Korean subsidiaries in China

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  • Jingxun Li

    (Yanbian University)

  • Ruby P. Lee

    (Florida State University)

  • Lian Zhang

    (Yanbian University)

Abstract

This study adds to the literature on business ecosystems and knowledge management by examining managerial ties as contingency factors. We suggest that managerial ties can be symbiotic (resources) or parasitic (constraints) to a foreign firm. We support our contention with evidence from Korean subsidiaries in China. We find that domestic political ties strengthen the effect of headquarters' knowledge transfer on performance. On the other hand, business ties are a double-edged sword, strengthening the performance impact of local knowledge acquisition while weakening that of headquarters' knowledge transfer.

Suggested Citation

  • Jingxun Li & Ruby P. Lee & Lian Zhang, 2018. "Managerial ties and knowledge transfer in business ecosystems: Evidence from Korean subsidiaries in China," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 17(3), pages 183-207, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:abaman:v:17:y:2018:i:3:d:10.1057_s41291-018-0033-y
    DOI: 10.1057/s41291-018-0033-y
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    5. Xuelian Piao & Jon Jungbien Moon, 2019. "When does knowledge similarity help foreign firms improve performance?," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 18(4), pages 301-323, September.

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