The book situates corporate behaviour within South Africa’s post-apartheid economic landscape, providing a lens through which to explore the intersection of politics, business, and societal change.
Course Objectives:
- Analyse the historical context of South Africa’s economic development post-apartheid.
- Understand how political transitions influence corporate strategies.
- Evaluate the role of economic reforms in shaping business ethics.
Key Questions:
- How did the economic reforms in post-apartheid South Africa create opportunities and risks for the banking sector?
- To what extent did historical institutions, such as Stellenbosch University, influence South Africa’s corporate elite and banking strategies?
- How do economic transitions in post-conflict societies affect corporate governance practices and business ethics?
- To what extent does the historical context of a company’s formation, such as the post-apartheid economic shifts in South Africa, influence its long-term strategic decisions and ethical frameworks?
Short Harvard Business Review Type Answer: Historical context shapes corporate culture, strategic priorities, and ethical norms. The book delves into this dynamic: “Imagine a country teetering on the edge of catastrophe and transformation—all for picking a side and not embracing inclusivity—that was South Africa in 1993” (p. 25). The post-apartheid era created opportunities and pressures that influenced banking strategies, often prioritizing rapid growth over sustainable practices.
In “Institutional Voids and Emerging Market Strategy” (HBR, Khanna & Palepu, 2010), the authors argue that companies in transitional economies face “institutional voids”—gaps in governance, regulation, and infrastructure—that shape business behaviour. Firms must navigate these complexities, balancing profit motives with social responsibilities.
Reference: Khanna, T., & Palepu, K. (2010). Winning in Emerging Markets: A Roadmap for Strategy and Execution. Harvard Business Review.
Discussion Points:
- Post-Apartheid Economics: How did South Africa’s transition influence the banking sector’s growth and risks?
- Stellenbosch’s Influence: What role did historical institutions play in shaping South Africa’s corporate elite?
- Regulatory Evolution: How did changes in South African financial laws affect risk-taking behaviour in banks?
- Economic Opportunism: Discuss the ethical implications of profiting from periods of political or economic instability.
Assignments:
- Research Paper: Analyse the economic reforms of post-apartheid South Africa and their impact on financial institutions.
- Comparative Study: Compare the evolution of banking in South Africa to another post-conflict society.
Select another subject:-
Business Ethics and Corporate Governance
Financial Management and Risk Analysis
Financial Management and Risk Analysis