2 The Nature and Significance of International Investment

Subject(s):

Investment — Debts — Loans — Investor

This chapter explains the nature and significance of international investments and investors, and the fact that investment is fundamental to economic growth and to the provision of needed goods and services in any society. Topics covered include the meaning of investment; forms of investment; the nature of investors; the role of return and risk; the nature of international investment; forms of international investment; the nature and goals of international investors; and state interests in international investment. The chapter concludes by stating that government officials, corporate executives, and lawyers must approach investments not just within the framework of narrow investor interests but within the broader framework of international economic cooperation.