Chapter 19 International Managerial Finance ◼ Instructor’s Resources Overview In today’s global business environment, the financial manager must also be aware of the international aspects of finance. A variety of international finance topics are presented in this chapter, including taxes, accounting practices, risk, the international capital markets, and the effect on capital structure of operating in different countries. This chapter discusses limited techniques but provides a broad overview of the financial considerations of the multinational corporation (MNC). Chapter 19 highlights the fact that international differences in culture, currencies, and taxes impact the student’s personal life as well as his or her future professional activities.
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Suggested Answer to Opener in Review Question
What makes entering an international marketplace attractive for companies like GE, and what are some common risks associated with operating internationally? At many companies, including GE, a majority of revenue comes from sales occurring outside the United States. By having locations in many areas, the firm may be more responsive to changes in the marketplace. To be selected and developed, international markets must meet the same criteria as domestic markets, plus compensate for the additional hurdles faced by the firm. The area must provide solid and predictable demand for the company’s products. Areas of the world that are unstable are generally not attractive markets for most companies. If the product is to be produced locally and the manufacturing process is sophisticated, the international market also must provide a local workforce that is educated. Finally, the international market must be receptive to foreign capital and foreign business. Countries that protect their local markets and industries make poor choices for companies looking to enter a foreign market.
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Answers to Review Questions
1. One of the most important trading blocs was created by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which is the treaty that establishes free trade and open markets between Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Like NAFTA, the European Union (EU) is a trading bloc designed to eliminate tariff barriers and create a single marketplace. Twenty-seven countries, representing almost half of a billion people, are members of the EU. The EU has established a single currency for thirteen member countries called the euro. Mercocur is a trading bloc in Latin America. However, the largest one is ASEAN, which with China has a regional free market including over 1.8 billion people. Countries also participate in bilateral and regional trade agreements.
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