Why investment matters : the political economy of international investments

Investment matters. The millions of dollars that are moved around the world every minute of day profoundly affect who gets to eat and who doesn’t; who has a job and who doesn’t; and who accumulates wealth and at whose expense. Influencing investment decisions requires an understanding of how investment works. Kavaljit Singh explains the central role of transnational corporations (TNCs) and other key players in determining investment patterns. He debunks some of the myths surrounding investment flows, and he suggests ways in which investment can be brought back under the democratic control of people and governments. Kavaljit Singh maps out investment flows, trends and regulatory frameworks and shows where citizens can work — and are working — to reclaim investment for the public good. With the help of case-studies, statistical data and cogent analysis, the book makes a critical appraisal of contemporary investment issues. Written in a simple language and style, Contents Acronyms Data Notes Acknowledgements Foreword 1. Defining International Investments 2. Recent Trends in International Investment Flows 3. Are International Investment Flows Beneficial? 4. The Regulatory Framework 5. The Governance of International A Historical Perspective 6. International Investment A Fragmented Landscape 7. Regulating Voluntary or Mandatory Approaches? 8. Strategizing Campaigns 9. Resources Glossary Index About the Author Kavaljit Singh is Director of Public Interest Research Centre, New Delhi. He is the author of widely published books, "Questioning Globalization", "Taming Global Financial Flows" and "The Globalization of Finance".