With extensive cross-country datasets and India firm samples, as well as our own surveys of small and medium firms, we examine the legal and business environments, financing channels, and growth patterns of different types of firms in India. Despite the English common-law origin and a...

International business (IB) studies provide unique insights into understanding firms doing business in multiple locations and environments compared to focusing on particular ones. This article reviews and analyzes theories, practices, and future research on alternative finance in the IB context....

Through a review of the literature, this chapter describes observed forms of alternative finance around the world, as well as their roles. It also uses World Bank Survey Data to empirically compare alternative finance development across countries. We find that alternative finance is essential...

Alternative finance based on social and business networks reaches back far into history. Despite the modern development of banks and financial markets, on a global scale, it remains prevalent and continually transforms with technological advancements. Its macroeconomic value and competitiveness...

This chapter reviews theories and empirical evidence on the competitiveness of alternative finance. The implicit benefits in alternative finance transactions motivate efforts and improve project outcomes. The informational and incentive advantages in alternative finance often make them a...