In this paper, we argue that we can reach a better understanding of the relationships between firm resources and competitive advantage by considering actions that firms take against their rivals' resources in factor markets and political markets. We outline market and firm characteristics that...

As a closed political economy becomes more open, the types and destinations of political ties that generate strategic benefits for firms change. In closed markets, the greatest benefits arise from formal ties to central political leaders. In more open markets, the benefits shift to informal ties...