Brain drain, is it beneficial?

It has become conventional wisdom to view Europe as an economic powerhouse past its prime, overshadowed by the steady advance of the US and meteoric rise of China. Critics cite Europe’s shrinking share of global GDP, excessive regulation, and slug...

Foxconn, a Fortune Global 500 giant and the world's largest electronics manufacturer, made headlines in 2023 by announcing a shift to a five-day, eight-hour workweek in its Chinese factories - a significant departure from its long history of extended work hours and grueling conditions. While this decision was celebrated by labor advocates as a critical step toward improving work-life balance, it sparked a complex debate among Foxconn employees. Many workers had come to rely on overtime pay just to make ends meet, as their basic wages barely covered essentials like rent and food. Foxconn had long faced criticism for pushing its workers to the brink, most notably in 2010, when 17 employees in China attempted suicide by jumping from company buildings, resulting in 14 tragic deaths. Despite this devastating toll, Foxconn's business growth remained unshaken. The company’s rise from a startup to the world’s largest electronics manufacturer is deeply intertwined with China’s massive influx of domestic migrant labor, where millions move to urban areas in search of better opportunities. This case delves into the reality of labor on Foxconn’s frontlines, exploring working conditions, compensation and living accommodations, as well as the far-reaching aftermath of the tragedies that shook both Foxconn and its clients, such as Apple. Beyond China, Foxconn’s global operations have faced similar scrutiny, and as the company expands into regions like India, it confronts new challenges. Cultural and regulatory differences further complicate its labor issues. This case highlights the critical tension between safeguarding worker dignity and well-being while meeting the relentless demands for productivity - whether in developed or emerging economies. As Foxconn continues to evolve and reshape its labor practices, the question remains: How can companies maintain profitability while ensuring the dignity, safety and well-being of their workforce?

Your top talent should come from different disciplines with different experiences to more effectively analyze the strategic environment. Use the IPO model below to see how it can be done.

Now in its eighth year, the 2024 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking measures the capacity and readiness of 67 economies to adopt and explore digital technologies as a key driver for economic transformation in business, government, and wider...

The UAE has been making waves recently in the technology world. A $1.5 billion deal between American tech giant Microsoft and Abu Dhabi’s AI champion,G42, seems to mark a shift in global alliances. This deal is significant not just in terms of the dollar value, but in what it represents for the UAE’s technology ambitions.

Michael Wade and Tomoko Yokoi explain how IMD ranked the world's leading companies on AI adoption and use – and reveal which topped the list.

Many employees are still typecast and denied the chance to show their true capabilities. Here are ways that companies can combat a culture of bias.

Employees with cognitive differences have much to offer, but navigating the workplace can be challenging. How can employers create an inclusive environment?

A balanced assessment of the past eight years is that, in terms of trade policy, America has turned protectionist, implementing significant measures to restrict domestic market access to foreign (non-US) imports.

Employee engagement is crucial for retaining talent, and having an inspiring vision can help build loyalty. So how can businesses create and realize a compelling vision?