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Untangling the multiple effects of slack resources on firms’ exporting behavior

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  • Paeleman, Ine
  • Fuss, Catherine
  • Vanacker, Tom

Abstract

Drawing on a behavioral theory perspective, we investigate how distinct types of slack resources affect distinct aspects of firms’ exporting behavior. Using longitudinal data of Belgian manufacturing firms, we find that financial and human resource (HR) slack affect the probability of exporting positively at a diminishing rate. Controlling for the export decision, we find that HR slack affects export intensity negatively, while financial and HR slack affect export diversity positively at a diminishing rate. Findings are economically meaningful, especially for new exporters. Taken together, our study adds new insights at the nexus of the international business and slack literatures.

Suggested Citation

  • Paeleman, Ine & Fuss, Catherine & Vanacker, Tom, 2017. "Untangling the multiple effects of slack resources on firms’ exporting behavior," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 52(6), pages 769-781.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:worbus:v:52:y:2017:i:6:p:769-781
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jwb.2017.06.007
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