Determinants of Technology Acquisition in International Equity Partnerships: An Examination of International Joint Ventures and International Acquisitions

摘要

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) have displayed a clear propensity to establish international equity partnerships (IEPs) (i.e., international joint ventures and international acquisitions) as a key strategic option. In addition, the acquisition of technological capabilities has been established as essential to enhance the competitiveness of IEPs in foreign markets. This study seeks to identify and assess the importance of key variables that affect technology acquisition in IEPs. The study also examines the differences in the importance of the variables that affect technology acquisition between the two organizational modes. The findings reveal both similarities and differences in the relative importance of variables that affect technology acquisition between the two types of IEPs. The findings suggest some useful insights for practicing managers in MNEs who are intending to enter foreign markets in either of the IEP formation modes.