China Science

Research on multinational corporations (MNCs) and host government political risk in developing countries has largely ignored local electoral politics, economic policies, and the MNC investment incentives they may generate. In response, I develop and test a framework for understanding MNC risk and investment behavior based on political business cycle considerations. Analyses of 408 MNC investments worth $199 billion in 18 developing countries holding 35 presidential elections from 1987 through 2000 are consistent with these considerations: MNCs perceive higher (lower) risk and announce fewer (more) investment projects as right-wing (left-wing) incumbents appear more likely to be replaced by left-wing (right-wing) challengers.

Vaaler, Paul M.1 vaa10001@umn.edu
[1]Associate Professor of International Business at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management

This article presents the editors’ opinions regarding their future expectations for the “Academy of Management Journal,” and their goals for the magazine. They also express appreciation for individuals who have helped with the publication of the journal and discuss how they will continue to live up to the journal’s mission statement.

Ireland, R. Duane