The impact of formal and informal institutional distances on MNE corporate social performance
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2019
Abstract
Can host country selection affect the corporate social performance (CSP) of multinational enterprises (MNEs)? Using institutional distance as our theoretical lens, we propose and empirically examine the notion that greater institutional diversity can have disparate influences on the social performance of different types of MNEs. We conceptualize each MNE as a unique portfolio of locations and use that “footprint” to examine the impact of formal and informal institutional distances on CSP. We hypothesize and find (1) a moderating influence of greater formal institutional distance in the MNE portfolio that slows the rate of increased benefits associated with greater international scope; and (2) a direct influence of greater informal institutional distance that lowers the overall levels of CSP independent of the international scope of the MNE. Managerial implications for international location selection are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Keig, D.L., Brouthers, L.E., & Marshall, V. B. (2019). The impact of formal and informal institutional distances on MNE corporate social performance. International Business Review 28(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ibusrev.2019.05.004