Business Cycles and Their Implications for Strategic Management

This perspective paper explores how fluctuations in the business cycle influence competitive dynamics, drawing on insights from neo-Schumpeterian and evolutionary economics. The review begins by differentiating between companies’ cyclical and countercyclical strategies to navigate economic cycles. It then examines the strategic approaches by late entrants during economic downturns to achieve sustainable competitive advantages. Additionally, the paper delves into how dominant market players capitalize on their market power to reinforce their leadership positions. Finally, the review highlights promising research opportunities to advance the theoretical discourse in this field.