Are Internet Firms Global?

Abstract

This study examines to what extent Internet firms have globalized and the key factors that have enabled some firms to globalize more than others. Contrary to arguments that Internet-based firms automatically benefit from a global market, this study shows that most Internet firms serve regional markets, consistent with Rugman's (2000) findings for firms in the FT500. However, there are a few notable exceptions. In these cases a combination of early mover advantages, unique product, technology standards and complementary products and services have created a ‘winner-takes-all’ market in which a few firms dominate markets worldwide. Implications for globalization theories are discussed.

Citation

Chen, S. (2006), "Are Internet Firms Global?", International Marketing Research (Advances in International Marketing, Vol. 17), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 319-345. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-7979(06)17012-X