MNEs and FSAs: Network knowledge, strategic orientation and performance

The objective of this research is to empirically investigate the contribution of network knowledge and strategic orientation to firm-specific advantages (FSAs). Using a unique firm-level dataset of the largest multinational enterprise (MNE) units across six small advanced economies, we find significant and positive relationships between different types of FSAs and (1) knowledge of the focal unit, and from internal corporate and external business networks; (2) unit role (headquarters and subsidiaries); (3) strategic orientation (local and global) and; (4) firm performance.