The Tech Cold War, the multipolarization of the world economy, and IB research

This paper first traces the evolution of the Tech Cold War to multipolarization in the context of major developments in the global economy, i.e. the ascent of China in the 21st century, antagonistic rivalry for technological supremacy between the United States and China, and the impending bifurcation of the world economy and its consequences. The paper then discusses the implications of the aforementioned developments for international business (IB) research and practice. Research topics include the Global North-South divide, nonmarket influences, government-MNE relationships, industrial policy and techno-nationalism, innovation in a multipolar world economy, the rise of middle powers, and innovation under geopolitical pressure.