FDI and Heterogeneous Firms : Evidence from BRIC Countries

This paper investigates the link between Outward Direct Investment (ODI) and the performance of BRIC firms. Drawing on firm-level data, we introduce a rich taxonomy of ODI that accounts for the decision to invest and the number, destination and ownership structure of foreign affiliates. Through different econometric models and specifications, we consistently demonstrate that BRIC firms engaged in ODI are in the minority, but they outperform domestic enterprises. Moreover, firms selecting less preferred ODI types outperform firms undertaking other ODI strategies