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Intra-family succession and firm’s internationalization: a network-based resource perspective

Zhang, Lijie; Lin, Zhibin; Baranchenko, Yevhen; Ren, Li

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Authors

Lijie Zhang

Yevhen Baranchenko

Li Ren



Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates how intra-family succession impacts the internationalization of family firms, focusing on generational factors such as the departure of incumbents and the social capital of successors. Design/methodology/approach: The study collects secondary data from Chinese A-share-listed family firms over a 12-year period, spanning from 2007 to 2019. It employs two regression models, mixed OLS regression and Probit regression, to analyze the data. To address potential sample selection bias, the study conducts robustness checks using Propensity Score Matching (PSM). Findings: The study finds that intra-family succession negatively impacts the internationalization scale, contrary to common assumptions. This effect worsens when incumbents fully exit the top management team and the board. The findings show succession’s disruptive effects, incumbents’ role in international expansion, and the importance of successors’ social capital in family firm internationalization. Originality/value: This study questions the traditional belief that family succession enhances a firm’s international growth. Instead, it reveals the critical but often overlooked role of predecessors in assisting with international efforts. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of successors’ social capital as an essential asset for global expansion.

Citation

Zhang, L., Lin, Z., Baranchenko, Y., & Ren, L. (online). Intra-family succession and firm’s internationalization: a network-based resource perspective. International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-10-2023-1066

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Mar 10, 2025
Online Publication Date Apr 11, 2025
Deposit Date May 27, 2025
Publicly Available Date May 28, 2025
Journal International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour and Research
Print ISSN 1355-2554
Publisher Emerald
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
DOI https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-10-2023-1066
Public URL https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/3964369
This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development

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