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Media slant against foreign owners: Downsizing

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  • Friebel, Guido
  • Heinz, Matthias

Abstract

Using a unique data set from nationally distributed quality newspapers in Germany, we find evidence for both quantitative and qualitative media slant against foreign firms. A downsizing foreign firm receives almost twice as much attention as a domestic firm, and the tone of media reports is more negative. Media slant is a measure for economic xenophobia directed against foreign owners, which constitutes an obstacle to foreign direct investment.

Suggested Citation

  • Friebel, Guido & Heinz, Matthias, 2014. "Media slant against foreign owners: Downsizing," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 120(C), pages 97-106.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:pubeco:v:120:y:2014:i:c:p:97-106
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2014.09.001
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Media economics; Globalization; Economic xenophobia; Multi-national enterprises; Foreign direct investment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L82 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Entertainment; Media
    • L33 - Industrial Organization - - Nonprofit Organizations and Public Enterprise - - - Comparison of Public and Private Enterprise and Nonprofit Institutions; Privatization; Contracting Out
    • L10 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - General

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