UNIT 4 - IB EXAM

Japan's auto market

Strong domestic brands (Toyota, Honda, Nissan), high quality and safety standards, government regulations protect local companies, consumers value reliability and technology, difficult for foreign companies to enter, very competitive market.

Gaming in China

Heavy government regulation, time limits for youth gaming, content censorship, must follow political rules, dominated by Chinese companies (Tencent, NetEase), government approval required for new games.

Grocery stores in France

Strong food safety and labeling laws, emphasis on fresh and local products, food culture is very important, less processed food, more government involvement than North America, consumers care about quality over convenience.

Banking in Indonesia

Large unbanked population, heavy use of mobile banking and fintech, rapidly growing financial sector, strong government regulation, technology used to reach rural populations, developing economy market.

Reuters

Neutral and fact-based reporting, supplies news to governments, banks, and corporations, focus on speed and accuracy, global audience, not opinion-based, used for decision-making.

CNBC

Real-time financial news, focus on stock markets and business, influences investors, advertising and sponsorship funded, fast-paced reporting, targets business professionals.

The Atlantic

Long-form journalism, opinion and analysis focused, subscription-based model, educated audience, less dependent on advertising, slower, deeper reporting.

Hofstede's Dimensions

A way to understand how culture affects business behavior.

Individualism vs Collectivism (IDV)

Individualism → 'I' culture, independence, personal success; Collectivism → 'We' culture, loyalty to group, group success.

Power Distance Index (PDI)

High PDI → hierarchy accepted, authority not questioned; Low PDI → equality, people challenge authority.

Masculinity vs Femininity (MAS)

Masculine → competition, winning, success, status; Feminine → cooperation, caring, quality of life.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI)

High UAI → dislike uncertainty, strict rules, planning; Low UAI → comfortable with change, flexible, relaxed.

Long-term vs Short-term Orientation (LTO)

Long-term → future focused, thrift, education, patience; Short-term → tradition, immediate results, stability.

Indulgence vs Restraint (IND)

Indulgence → enjoy life, freedom, fun; Restraint → strict norms, self-control, duty.

Importance of Hofstede's Dimensions

Helps avoid cultural misunderstandings, improves communication and negotiation, helps companies adapt marketing and management, makes global teamwork more effective.