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Can a firm find the balance between openness and secrecy? Towards a theory of an optimum level of disclosure

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  • Farok J Contractor

    (Rutgers University)

Abstract

The purpose of this article is not merely to counter assertions about technology leakage/spillovers being innocuous or benevolent, but to go further and illuminate an under-researched question: How can companies seek the optimum balance between conscious disclosure and secrecy? The article works towards a theory of optimum disclosure, by identifying possible benefits and costs of disclosure or openness. In Paradigm 1, most companies find the net benefits of disclosure/openness to be negative. In Paradigm 2, applicable to a few highly networked or open-source MNEs, there could be net benefits over a limited range and up to an optimum point.

Suggested Citation

  • Farok J Contractor, 2019. "Can a firm find the balance between openness and secrecy? Towards a theory of an optimum level of disclosure," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 50(2), pages 261-274, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jintbs:v:50:y:2019:i:2:d:10.1057_s41267-018-0204-2
    DOI: 10.1057/s41267-018-0204-2
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    3. Sun, Sunny Li & Choi, Yoona & Guo, Feng & Guo, Jinyu & Zou, Bo & Cui, Lin, 2023. "Winning intellectual property rights lawsuits in China," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 58(3).
    4. Han, Xiaomin & Goxe, François & Freeman, Susan, 2024. "Internationalization through social networks: A systematic review and future research agenda," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 33(4).
    5. Hung, Tung Min & Contractor, Farok & Lo, Yi-Ju, 2022. "Manage the value and liability of offshoring innovation," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 31(2).
    6. Veer, Theresa & Yang, Philip & Riepe, Jan, 2022. "Ventures' conscious knowledge transfer to close partners, and beyond: A framework of performance, complementarity, knowledge disclosure, and knowledge broadcasting," Journal of Business Venturing, Elsevier, vol. 37(3).
    7. Su, Zhongfeng & Wang, Chenfeng & Peng, Mike W., 2022. "Intellectual property rights protection and total factor productivity," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 31(3).
    8. Wu, Haizhen & Han, Zhao'an & Zhou, Yong, 2021. "Optimal degree of openness in open innovation: A perspective from knowledge acquisition & knowledge leakage," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 67(C).

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