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Network effect and subsidiary autonomy in multinational corporations: An investigation of Taiwanese subsidiaries

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  • Chiao, Yu-Ching
  • Ying, Kung-Pao

Abstract

Considering the lack of empirical evidence on the subsidiary autonomy of firms from Asian developing countries, which are usually smaller in size and have limited international experience, this study investigates the antecedents of subsidiary autonomy from a network perspective. We assess the range and the strength of both internal network (i.e., technological network) and external network (i.e., supplier's and distributor's networks) on subsidiary autonomy. Examining a sample of 1473 manufacturers extracted from a Taiwanese government-maintained database, we find that (1) a firm will grant less autonomy to a subsidiary with more internal network range and stronger internal network strength, and (2) a firm will grant more autonomy to a subsidiary with more external network range and stronger external network strength.

Suggested Citation

  • Chiao, Yu-Ching & Ying, Kung-Pao, 2013. "Network effect and subsidiary autonomy in multinational corporations: An investigation of Taiwanese subsidiaries," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 22(4), pages 652-662.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:iburev:v:22:y:2013:i:4:p:652-662
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ibusrev.2012.10.001
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    3. de Jong, Gjalt & van Dut, Vo & Jindra, Björn & Marek, Philipp, 2015. "Does country context distance determine subsidiary decision-making autonomy? Theory and evidence from European transition economies," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 24(5), pages 874-889.
    4. Dixit Manjunatha Betaraya & Saboohi Nasim & Joy Mukhopadhyay, 2018. "Subsidiary Innovation in a Developing Economy: Towards a Comprehensive Model and Directions for Future Research," FIIB Business Review, , vol. 7(2), pages 109-125, June.
    5. Fang-Yi Lo & Yu-Ching Chiao & Chwo-Ming Joseph Yu, 2016. "Network and Institutional Effects on SMEs’ Entry Strategies," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 56(4), pages 531-563, August.
    6. Liu, Xiaming & Vahtera, Pekka & Wang, Chengang & Wang, Jue & Wei, Yingqi, 2017. "The delicate balance: Managing technology adoption and creation in multinational affiliates in an emerging economy," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 26(3), pages 515-526.

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