This Q4 class focuses on the strategies of firms as they navigate an ever more challenging political and regulatory landscape in both China and the United States. The class is an optional continuation of Q3, designed for students, working individually or in groups, who wish to pursue an advanced project, under faculty guidance. It assists students who wish to pursue business opportunities in or with Greater China (the People’s Republic, Taiwan, and Hong Kong), or for Greater China-based businesses that seek to expand internationally, particularly in the United States. It presumes basic knowledge of the Chinese business, economic, and political scene, as taught in Doing Business with China.

Students are encouraged to research and write an HBS-like case on a company or sector that must deal with the political and business risks of today's geopolitics. The project may also take the form of a business plan for an enterprise in China, Hong Kong, or Taiwan; or of a Chinese firm in the United States. Students will work closely with faculty to identify a topic and relevant source materials.

Career Focus

Entrepreneurship, internationally (with focus on opportunities in Greater China and on Chinese businesses going international)

Educational Objectives

To integrate area-specific knowledge and risk factors (business, cultural, and political environments) with fundamental business planning.

Course Content and Organization

Faculty-guided independent research in groups; group presentations and critiques.