Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Dr. Wen-Wen Chien

Abstract

Transfer pricing compliance related issues continue to pose challenges to leaders of multinational entities (MNEs) and tax regulators. MNE leaders strive to mitigate the risks of non-compliance violations and double taxation, while tax regulators seek to minimize profit shifting and revenue losses. This multiple case study explored strategies for managing transfer pricing risks against the backdrop of various risks MNE leaders face for non-compliance violations. The cost contribution agreement theory served as the conceptual framework for this study. Data were collected from organizational documents and semistructured interviews conducted with 6 finance executives representing 2 multinational entities in the midwest and southwest regions of the United States who have implemented successful strategies to manage transfer pricing risks. Data were analyzed using Yin's multiple-step thematic analysis process. Following the thematic data analysis 5 themes emerged, including commitment to tax compliance, tax minimization, advance pricing agreement (APA), comparable uncontrolled price method (CUP), and cost plus method (CPM). MNE leaders favor commitment to tax compliance as an effective strategy as penalties for non-compliance increases risks to business functionality. The findings of this study may help business leaders to follow compliance procedures and adopt risk mitigation strategies, while also informing regulators to update tax regulations to reflect current economic realities. The findings of this study could result in positive social change through an enhanced governmental revenue that stimulates economic growth, improves productivity, and promotes technological innovations.

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