CIPS L6M2 問題集

質問 1：
SIMULATION
Discuss the role and influence of industry regulators and international bodies in the business environment.
正解：
The Role and Influence of Industry Regulators and International Bodies in the Business Environment Introduction Industry regulators and international bodies play a critical role in shaping the business environment by enforcing regulations, setting industry standards, and ensuring fair competition. These organizations influence how businesses operate, impacting areas such as trade, finance, environmental sustainability, labor practices, and consumer protection.
Companies must comply with regulations set by both domestic industry regulators and global institutions to maintain legal and ethical business operations.
1. Role of Industry Regulators
Industry regulators are government-appointed or independent organizations that oversee specific sectors to ensure compliance with laws and standards. Their key functions include:
✅ Enforcing Compliance - Ensuring companies adhere to legal requirements (e.g., financial reporting, safety regulations).
✅ Promoting Fair Competition - Preventing monopolies and anti-competitive practices.
✅ Consumer Protection - Safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring product/service quality.
✅ Regulating Market Entry and Operations - Setting standards for licensing, pricing, and ethical conduct.
Example of Industry Regulators

Case Example: The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) blocked Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard due to concerns over market dominance in cloud gaming.
2. Role of International Bodies
International bodies set global regulations, trade policies, and ethical standards that influence businesses operating across borders.

Case Example: The WTO's intervention in Brexit trade negotiations affected tariffs and supply chain costs for UK-based companies.
3. Influence of Industry Regulators and International Bodies on Business Strategy Businesses must align their strategies with regulatory and international frameworks to ensure compliance and avoid financial or reputational risks.

Example: The EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) forced global companies to enhance data protection policies or face heavy fines.
4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Regulatory and International Influence
✅ Advantages
Promotes Stability & Fair Competition - Reduces market manipulation and corruption.
Protects Consumers & Employees - Ensures safety, fair wages, and ethical standards.
Encourages Innovation & Sustainability - Businesses invest in R&D to meet regulatory requirements.
Facilitates Global Trade - International trade agreements create business opportunities.
❌ Disadvantages
Regulatory Burdens & Compliance Costs - Strict laws increase operational costs.
Trade Barriers & Bureaucracy - Lengthy regulatory approval processes slow down market entry.
Risk of Overregulation - Too many rules can stifle competition and innovation.
Example: The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) requires manufacturers to pay for carbon emissions, increasing operational costs.
Conclusion
Industry regulators and international bodies shape the business environment by enforcing laws, ensuring ethical practices, and facilitating global trade. Companies must proactively monitor regulatory changes, integrate compliance into strategic planning, and adapt to international standards to maintain market competitiveness and sustainability.

質問 2：
SIMULATION
Explain 5 reasons why exchange rates can be volatile
Five Reasons Why Exchange Rates Can Be Volatile
Introduction
Exchange rates are constantly fluctuating due to economic, political, and market forces. Volatility in exchange rates affects global trade, procurement costs, and business profitability. Companies engaged in international supply chains or global expansion must understand the factors that drive currency fluctuations to manage risks effectively.
This answer explores five key reasons why exchange rates experience volatility.
1. Interest Rate Differentials (Monetary Policy Impact)
Explanation:
Central banks set interest rates to control inflation and economic growth. Countries with higher interest rates attract foreign investment, increasing demand for their currency.
✅ How It Causes Volatility?
Rising interest rates → Attracts foreign investors → Currency appreciates Falling interest rates → Reduces investment appeal → Currency depreciates Example: When the US Federal Reserve raises interest rates, the US dollar strengthens as investors move capital to USD-based assets.
Key Takeaway: Exchange rates fluctuate as investors adjust capital flows based on interest rate expectations.
2. Inflation Rates (Purchasing Power Impact)
Explanation:
Inflation reduces the value of money, leading to lower purchasing power. Countries with high inflation tend to see their currency weaken, while those with low inflation maintain a stronger currency.
✅ How It Causes Volatility?
High inflation → Reduces confidence in currency → Depreciation
Low inflation → Increases currency stability → Appreciation
Example: The Turkish Lira has depreciated significantly due to high inflation rates, making imports expensive.
Key Takeaway: Inflation affects the real value of money, influencing exchange rate stability.
3. Speculation and Market Sentiment (Investor Behavior Impact)
Explanation:
Foreign exchange markets (Forex) are driven by investor speculation. Traders buy and sell currencies based on market trends, geopolitical risks, and economic forecasts.
✅ How It Causes Volatility?
If investors expect a currency to strengthen, they buy more → Increases demand and value If investors lose confidence, they sell off holdings → Causes depreciation Example: In 2016, after the Brexit referendum, speculation about the UK economy caused the British pound (GBP) to drop sharply.
Key Takeaway: Investor behavior and speculation create short-term exchange rate volatility.
4. Political Instability & Economic Uncertainty (Government Policies & Geopolitics) Explanation:
Political uncertainty and economic instability weaken investor confidence, leading to capital flight from riskier currencies. Countries with stable governments and strong economies maintain more stable exchange rates.
✅ How It Causes Volatility?
Political crises, elections, or policy changes → Uncertainty → Currency depreciation Stable governance and economic reforms → Confidence → Currency appreciation Example:
Argentina's peso lost value due to economic instability and high debt.
Switzerland's Swiss Franc (CHF) remains strong due to political stability and its reputation as a "safe-haven" currency.
Key Takeaway: Political and economic uncertainty increase exchange rate volatility by influencing investor confidence.
5. Trade Balances & Current Account Deficits 🌎 (Export-Import Impact)
Explanation:
The balance of trade (exports vs. imports) impacts currency demand. Countries that export more than they import experience higher demand for their currency, leading to appreciation. Conversely, nations with large trade deficits see their currencies depreciate.
✅ How It Causes Volatility
Trade surplus (more exports) → Demand for local currency rises → Appreciation Trade deficit (more imports) → Increased need for foreign currency → Depreciation Example:
China's trade surplus strengthens the Chinese Yuan (CNY).
The US dollar fluctuates based on its import-export trade balance.
Key Takeaway: Exchange rates shift as global trade patterns change, affecting currency demand.
Conclusion
Exchange rate volatility is driven by economic, financial, and political factors:
1️⃣ Interest Rates - Higher rates attract investment, strengthening currency.
2️⃣ Inflation Rates - High inflation erodes value, weakening currency.
3️⃣ Speculation & Market Sentiment - Investor behavior influences short-term fluctuations.
4️⃣ Political & Economic Uncertainty - Instability causes capital flight and depreciation.
5️⃣ Trade Balances & Deficits - Export-driven economies see appreciation, while import-heavy nations experience depreciation.
Understanding these drivers helps businesses manage currency risks when engaging in global procurement, contracts, and financial planning.
正解：
Use of Forward and Futures Contracts in the Commodities Market
Introduction
The commodities market involves the trading of physical goods such as oil, gold, agricultural products, and metals. Due to price volatility, businesses and investors use derivative contracts like forward and futures contracts to manage price risk and ensure stability in supply chains.
Both contracts allow buyers and sellers to agree on a fixed price for a future date, but they differ in terms of standardization, trading methods, and risk exposure.
1. Forward Contracts (Private, Custom Agreements)
Definition
A forward contract is a customized agreement between two parties to buy or sell a commodity at a specified price on a future date. It is a private, over-the-counter (OTC) contract, meaning it is not traded on an exchange.
✅ Key Characteristics:
Customizable terms (quantity, delivery date, price).
Direct agreement between buyer and seller.
Used for hedging against price fluctuations.
Example: A coffee producer agrees to sell 10,000kg of coffee to a distributor in 6 months at a fixed price of $5 per kg, protecting both parties from price swings.
Advantages of Forward Contracts
✔ Tailored to buyer/seller needs - Customizable quantity, quality, and delivery terms.
✔ Reduces price uncertainty - Locks in a price, protecting against market fluctuations.
✔ No upfront cost - No initial margin or collateral required.
Disadvantages of Forward Contracts
❌ High counterparty risk - If one party defaults, the other may face financial losses.
❌ Not regulated or publicly traded - Higher risk of contract disputes.
❌ Limited liquidity - Harder to transfer or sell compared to futures contracts.
Best for: Companies looking for customized price protection in procurement or sales (e.g., food manufacturers, oil refineries).
2. Futures Contracts (Standardized, Exchange-Traded Agreements)
Definition
A futures contract is a standardized agreement to buy or sell a commodity at a predetermined price on a future date. These contracts are traded on organized exchanges (e.g., Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), London Metal Exchange (LME)).
✅ Key Characteristics:
Highly regulated and standardized (fixed contract sizes and terms).
Exchange-traded → Increased liquidity and price transparency.
Requires initial margin and daily settlements (mark-to-market system).
Example: A wheat farmer uses futures contracts on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) to lock in wheat prices before harvest, avoiding potential price drops.
Advantages of Futures Contracts
✔ Lower counterparty risk - Exchanges guarantee contract settlement.
✔ High liquidity - Easily bought or sold on futures markets.
✔ Price transparency - Publicly available pricing and standardized contracts.
Disadvantages of Futures Contracts
❌ Less flexibility - Fixed contract sizes and expiration dates.
❌ Margin requirements - Traders must maintain a margin account, requiring cash reserves.
❌ Potential for speculative losses - Prices fluctuate daily, leading to possible margin calls.
Best for: Large-scale buyers/sellers, investors, and companies needing risk management in commodity markets.
3. Key Differences Between Forward and Futures Contracts

Key Takeaway: Forwards offer flexibility but higher risk, while futures provide standardization and liquidity.
4. Application of Forward and Futures Contracts in the Commodities Market Forwards Used By:
✅ Food manufacturers - Locking in wheat, sugar, or coffee prices for future production.
✅ Oil refineries - Securing crude oil prices to manage fuel costs.
✅ Mining companies - Pre-agreeing on metal prices to secure revenue streams.
Futures Used By:
✅ Airlines - Hedging against fluctuating fuel prices.
✅ Investors - Speculating on gold, oil, or agricultural prices for profit.
✅ Governments - Stabilizing national food or energy reserves.
5. Conclusion
Both forward and futures contracts are essential tools in the commodities market for price risk management.
✅ Forward contracts are customizable but riskier, making them suitable for businesses with specific procurement needs.
✅ Futures contracts offer liquidity and reduced counterparty risk, making them ideal for investors and large corporations managing price volatility.
Organizations must choose the right contract based on their risk tolerance, market exposure, and financial objectives.

質問 3：
SIMULATION
XYZ is a toilet paper manufacturer based in the UK. It has 2 large factories employing over 500 staff and a complex supply chain sourcing paper from different forests around the world. XYZ is making some strategic changes to the way it operates including changes to staffing structure and introducing more automation. Discuss 4 causes of resistance to change that staff at XYZ may experience and examine how the CEO of XYZ can successfully manage this resistance to change
正解：
Causes of Resistance to Change & Strategies to Manage It - XYZ Case Study When XYZ, a UK-based toilet paper manufacturer, implements strategic changes such as staff restructuring and automation, employees may resist change due to uncertainty, fear, and disruption to their work environment. Below are four key causes of resistance and how the CEO can manage them effectively.
Causes of Resistance to Change
1. Fear of Job Loss
Cause: Employees may fear that automation will replace their jobs, leading to layoffs. Factory workers and administrative staff may feel particularly vulnerable.
Example: If machines take over manual processes like paper cutting and packaging, employees may see this as a direct threat to their roles.
2. Lack of Communication and Transparency
Cause: When management fails to communicate the reasons for change, employees may speculate and assume the worst. Unclear messages lead to distrust.
Example: If XYZ's CEO announces restructuring without explaining why and how jobs will be affected, employees may feel insecure and disengaged.
3. Loss of Skills and Status
Cause: Some employees, especially long-serving workers, may feel their skills are becoming obsolete due to automation. Managers may resist change if they fear losing power in a new structure.
Example: A production line supervisor may oppose automation because it reduces the need for human oversight, making their role seem redundant.
4. Organizational Culture and Habit
Cause: Employees are accustomed to specific ways of working, and sudden changes disrupt routine. Resistance occurs when changes challenge existing work culture.
Example: XYZ's employees may have always used manual processes, and shifting to AI-driven production feels unfamiliar and uncomfortable.
How the CEO Can Manage Resistance to Change
1. Effective Communication Strategy
✅ What to do?
Clearly explain why the changes are necessary (e.g., cost efficiency, competitiveness).
Use town hall meetings, emails, and team discussions to provide updates.
Address employee concerns directly to reduce uncertainty.
Example: The CEO can send monthly updates on automation, ensuring transparency and reducing fear.
2. Employee Involvement and Engagement
✅ What to do?
Involve staff in decision-making to give them a sense of control.
Create cross-functional teams to gather employee input.
Provide opportunities for feedback and discussion.
Example: XYZ can form a worker's advisory panel to gather employee concerns and address them proactively.
3. Training and Upskilling Programs
✅ What to do?
Offer training programs to help employees adapt to new technologies.
Provide reskilling opportunities for employees whose jobs are affected.
Reassure staff that automation will create new roles, not just eliminate jobs.
Example: XYZ can introduce digital skills training for workers transitioning from manual processes to automated systems.
4. Change Champions & Support Systems
✅ What to do?
Appoint change champions (influential employees) to advocate for change.
Offer emotional and psychological support (e.g., HR consultations, career guidance).
Recognize and reward employees who embrace change.
Example: XYZ can offer bonuses or promotions to employees who successfully transition into new roles.
Conclusion
Resistance to change is natural, but the CEO of XYZ can minimize resistance through clear communication, employee involvement, training, and structured support. By managing resistance effectively, XYZ can ensure a smooth transition while maintaining employee morale and operational efficiency.

質問 4：
SIMULATION
XYZ is a successful cake manufacturer and wishes to expand the business to create additional confectionary items. The expansion will require the purchase of a further manufacturing facility, investment in machinery and the hiring of more staff. The CEO and CFO are confident that the diversification will be a success and are discussing ways to raise funding for the expansion and are debating between dept funding and funding. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each approach?
正解：
Evaluation of Debt Funding vs. Equity Funding for XYZ's Expansion
Introduction
As XYZ, a successful cake manufacturer, plans to expand into additional confectionery items, it requires significant investment in a new manufacturing facility, machinery, and staff. To finance this expansion, the company must choose between:
Debt Funding - Borrowing from banks or financial institutions.
Equity Funding - Raising capital by selling shares to investors.
Each funding option has advantages and disadvantages that impact financial stability, ownership control, and long-term business strategy.
1. Debt Funding(Loans, Bonds, or Credit Facilities)
Definition
Debt funding involves borrowing money from banks, lenders, or issuing corporate bonds, which must be repaid with interest.
✅ Key Characteristics:
The company retains full ownership and decision-making control.
Loan repayments are fixed and predictable.
Interest payments are tax-deductible.
Example: XYZ takes a bank loan of £2 million to purchase new machinery and repay it over five years with interest.
Advantages of Debt Funding
✔ Ownership Retention - XYZ keeps full control over business decisions.
✔ Predictable Repayment Plan - Fixed monthly payments make financial planning easier.
✔ Tax Benefits - Interest payments reduce taxable income.
✔ Shorter-Term Obligation - Once the loan is repaid, there are no further obligations.
Disadvantages of Debt Funding
❌ Repayment Pressure - Regular repayments increase financial risk during slow sales periods.
❌ Interest Costs - High-interest rates can reduce profitability.
❌ Collateral Requirement - Lenders may require company assets as security.
❌ Credit Risk - If XYZ fails to repay, it risks losing assets or damaging credit ratings.
Best for: Companies that want to maintain ownership and have stable revenue streams to cover repayments.
2. Equity Funding(Selling Shares to Investors or Venture Capitalists)
Definition
Equity funding involves raising capital by selling shares in the company to investors, such as private investors, venture capitalists, or the stock market.
✅ Key Characteristics:
No repayment obligations, but shareholders expect a return on investment (ROI).
Investors gain partial ownership and may influence business decisions.
Funding amount depends on the company's valuation and investor interest.
Example: XYZ sells 20% of its shares to a private investor for £3 million, which funds new production lines.
Advantages of Equity Funding
✔ No Repayment Obligation - Reduces financial burden on cash flow.
✔ Access to Large Capital - Easier to raise significant funds for expansion.
✔ Attracts Strategic Investors - Investors may provide expertise and industry connections.
✔ Spreads Business Risk - Losses are shared with investors, reducing pressure on XYZ.
Disadvantages of Equity Funding
❌ Loss of Ownership & Control - Investors gain a say in company decisions.
❌ Profit Sharing - Dividends or profit-sharing reduce earnings for existing owners.
❌ Longer Decision-Making Process - Raising equity capital takes time due to negotiations and regulatory compliance.
❌ Dilution of Shares - Selling shares reduces the founder's ownership percentage.
Best for: Companies needing large funding amounts with less repayment pressure, but willing to share ownership and decision-making.
3. Comparison: Debt vs. Equity Funding

Key Takeaway: The choice between debt and equity funding depends on XYZ's risk tolerance, cash flow stability, and long-term growth strategy.
4. Conclusion & Recommendation
Both debt funding and equity funding offer advantages and risks for XYZ's expansion.
✅ Debt funding is ideal if XYZ wants to retain ownership and has stable revenue to cover loan repayments.
✅ Equity funding is better if XYZ seeks larger investments, strategic expertise, and reduced financial risk.
Recommended Approach: A hybrid strategy, combining debt for short-term capital needs and equity for long-term growth, can provide financial flexibility while minimizing risks.