Book excerpt: In 2008, it appeared that the BRIC nations’ economies would continue to provide growth opportunities for businesses of all kinds. After a decade of unprecedented growth, however, Brazil, Russia, India, and China have unexpectedly slowed. In this innovative book, expert contributors diagnose and examine the factors that might be responsible for the changing trends in the BRIC and other emerging market economies and that may determine the future course of these economies and their prospects for sustained growth. This volume offers valuable insights into a wide range of issues pertaining to emerging economies that demand the attention of researchers and practitioners. In particular, contributors explore topics such as the importance of innovation, internationalization trends of emerging market firms, sustainability and social issues, market liberalization and entrepreneurship, consumer behavior and customer relations. Rigorous scholarly research, including empirical work, and perspectives from emerging markets make this an essential resource for doctoral students, business academics and executives, and politicians and policy makers involved in developing nations and their economies.