SIB7503-B Globalisation and Current Trends in International Business Assessment Information

Assessment Task

• It is frequently argued that the process of globalisation has seriously slowed down or even that it is being reversed. Discuss the foundations of these claims and assess the merits and failures of globalisation so far.
• A European company is considering investing in sub-Saharan Africa. You have been tasked to provide a report and consider various options. Which countries would you recommend, and what are the opportunities and threats to be given careful attention?
• Analyse similarities and differences in regional integration between Africa and another part of the world (e.g., the European Union, or ASEAN, USMCA, Mercosur etc.).
• The African continent has a tremendous potential for development but is also facing numerous crucial challenges. It has been argued that African development would need to be supported by a massive investment plan comparable to the Marshall Plan after WW2 if the continent’s economy is to be made sustainable. Discuss.
• Investigate Chinese investments in Africa and analyse their impact on the continent’s economies.
• China is sometimes perceived as a new model of partnership for African development, whilst others criticise China for being a new ‘colonial power’ on African soil. Critically discuss these assertions.
• It is frequently argued that the Belt and Road Initiative is a means for China to shape the trade roads of tomorrow to the advantage of China. Others consider that the BRI will generate win-win situations for all participating countries. Discuss.
• Consider one specific policy of the European Union and discuss how it influences a firm or a sector of your choice.
• Review the impact that establishing the Single European Market has had on a firm of a sector of your choice.
• ‘With Brexit, the UK has become the only country in the world to impose economic sanctions on itself.’ Critically discuss this statement in the context of the damage caused by Brexit to the UK economy.
• Investigate the economic and financial impact of Brexit on both the UK and the European Union in a comparative perspective.
• Investigate the impact, positive or negative, that Brexit may have on African development.
• Consider an external policy of the European Union (e.g. trade, competition, environment) and investigate EU-relations with another region, such as China or the US and possible tensions in EU-China or EU-US relations (or another bloc or country) in this particular policy area.
• The advent of illiberal, populist regimes in Western economies and around the globe open up major issues of concern to European companies. Examine these concerns, either in the context of the EU or in the context of the UK, the US, India, or another country.  
• In recent times, the BRICS have attracted new member countries. However, considerable differences persist between BRICS member states. Evaluate the potential for these countries to boost international business and trade at a time when the US threaten international trade with new tariff barriers. 

Assessment Criteria

The following criteria are used to assess your coursework:

Use of academic concepts and theories (40%)

• The extent to which academic materials have been incorporated
• Depth of reading and application
• Relevance of the content
• Demonstrating understanding of knowledge

Quality of reflection, interpretation and evaluation (40%)

• Breadth and depth of theory that has been analysed
• Logical reasoning, analysis and debate
• Originality and use of initiative
• Use of examples

Structure and clarity of presentation (20%)

• Word count is indicated and does not exceed the limit.
• Logic and rationale for the adopted structure
• Clarity of the points made
• Correct use of APA referencing style
• At least eight academic research articles are used.
•  Academic writing skills