Also in the news...
South African interest rates remain unchanged
The South African Reserve Bank's (Sarb's) monetary policy committee (MPC) has left the key repo rate unchanged on Thursday at 6.5%, with the prime lending rate steady at 10%.
Belgium M&A Review 2009/2010
Please give a brief overview of the public M&A market in your jurisdiction. (Has it been active? What were the big deals over the past year? Please distinguish between trade buyers and private equity backed deals.)
Entering U.S. Markets with High Street Partners
As a large, economically vibrant and fairly homogenous market, the United States has long had strong appeal for foreign companies...
A Little Planning Goes A Long Way
A better understanding of local customs and standards is a good starting point for business overseas, coupled with a winning idea.
ZOE ANDREWS reporting on why you can never be too prepared.
Planning to relocate overseas may seem like a stressful ordeal, and amongst all the other things which need to be done: booking flights, finding somewhere to live and packing, doing research may be the last thing on your mind.
However, a little research about the culture you're moving to could be the difference between your new business being a success or a functional flop. Face facts business is driven by culture, meaning that an understanding of the local culture leads to an understanding of the ways in which business works in that country.
People work in different ways in different cultures, so it would be unwise to assume anything about a new country especially that they are the same as you. This may not be the case! A better understanding of local customs and standards is a good starting point for business overseas, coupled with a winning idea. This is likely to improve your business relationships with suppliers and distributors, for example. Your business will deliver better results if you can stick to the customs and traditions which the local culture operates under.
The best way to learn about culture is to experience it. Immerse yourself in the local way of life, don't be afraid to try new things and be open to new ideas. It just might help you in your business!
