We argue that differences in performance relate to firm characteristics, such as capital structure and internal corporate governance arrangements. From the findings obtained, we derive a number of recommendations in order to reduce companies´ vulnerabilities to financial crises; a crucial topic due to the present situation at several European nations.

Speaker:

Karen Watkins obtained the PhD degree in Finance at Erasmus University Rotterdam. She has published several articles in international journals, and is the author of the book entitled ¨Macroeconomic crisis and firm performance¨. Prof. Watkins is affiliated to the Economics Intelligence Research Center and the Graduate School, at UPAEP Mexico. She is member of the Mexican National Research System and the EURO Working Group on Financial Modelling.