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Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: Antonio D'AGATA

Expected Learning Outcomes

The course aims to provide a solid understanding of international economic institutions, as well as economic theories of international trade and the internationalisation of businesses. Particular attention is given to the role of culture and national and international political institutions in the development of international trade. The course also addresses issues related to Corporate Social Responsibility in the internationalization of businesses and the influence of new geopolitical scenarios on the internationalization of firms and the international trade.

Course Structure

Lectures.

Required Prerequisites

elementary notions of economics

Attendance of Lessons

Not compulsory

Detailed Course Content

Foundations of International Trade and International Business: The Role of Institutions and Economic Resources

Economic Activities Between Countries: International Trade, International Investment, and Exchange Rates

The Globalization Process: European Integration, Multilateral Organizations, and Socially Responsible Businesses

Business on the Global Stage: Starting a Business Abroad, Entry Strategies

Textbook Information

Peng. M. & Meyer, K. International Business, Cengage (Fourth Edition), 2023, Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and the Integrative Cases: Negotiating Brexit GSK Tackles Corrupt Practices in China

Course Planning

 SubjectsText References
1Globalizing businessPeng & Meyer, Ch. 1
2Formal Institutions: Political, Economic and Legal SystemsPeng & Meyer, Ch. 2
3Informal Institutions: Culture, Religion and Legal SystemsPeng & Meyer, Ch. 3
4Firm Resources: Competitiveness and GrowthPeng & Meyer, Ch. 4
5Trading InternationallyPeng & Meyer, Ch. 5
6Investing Abroad DirectlyPeng & Meyer, Ch. 6
7Exchange RatesPeng & Meyer, Ch. 7
8European IntegrationPeng & Meyer, Ch. 8
9Global Integration and Multilateral OrganizazionsPeng & Meyer, Ch. 9
10Socially responsible BusinessPeng & Meyer, Ch. 10
11Starting International BusinessPeng & Meyer, Ch. 11
12Foreign entru strategiesPeng & Meyer, Ch. 12

Learning Assessment

Learning Assessment Procedures

Written exam. Six open-ended questions. Time allowed 120 min.


Assessment Criteria and Grading Scale

Examination results are expressed on a scale from 0/30 to 30/30. The “lode” (cum laude) is reserved for outstanding performance. There is no direct equivalence with percentages or GPA. The assessment system is based on the following criteria.

·       Fail (0–17): The student does not demonstrate adequate knowledge of the basic course content and/or has not completed the required work.

·       18–20 (Pass – Sufficient): Minimal knowledge of the subject; very limited ability to apply concepts; significant difficulty in critical discussion.

·       21–24 (Fair – Discrete): Adequate command of course topics; correct but basic exposition; frequent need for guidance.

·       25–27 (Good): Solid knowledge of the subject; ability to handle cases and assignments independently, with only minor inaccuracies.

·       28–30 (Very Good – Excellent): Comprehensive and in-depth knowledge; autonomous ability to make connections between themes and sources; clear exposition with no significant errors.

·       30 cum laude (Distinction): Exceptional performance, marked by originality, critical insight, and virtually complete mastery of the subject.

Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises

Institution-based view of International Business, the role of culture in International Business, international trade theories based on absolute and comparative advantages, currency hedging in international trade.