Increased globalisation has led to more firms becoming multinational companies - OCR - GCSE Business - Question 16 - 2021 - Paper 1

One possible advantage of operating as a multinational is the ability to access larger markets. This allows the business to increase its customer base and potentially raise more revenue by spreading its operations in multiple countries.

In 2020, 75% of 24 million customers used online banking.

Calculation:

Number of customers using online banking = 0.75 * 24,000,000 = 18,000,000.

1. E-commerce can expand a company's market reach by allowing sales to customers beyond local boundaries.
2. It may lead to increased competition, as businesses can easily enter the online market.

One way Barclays plc could treat its customers ethically is by ensuring transparency in banking fees. By clearly communicating any fees associated with accounts or transactions, the bank fosters trust and maintains positive customer relationships.

1. The cost of the technology, including any ongoing maintenance costs.
2. The expected return on investment (ROI) from the new technology.

Investing in computer technology to enhance online banking services can lead to better customer satisfaction due to improved service speeds and security. However, it also entails significant upfront costs and the risk of technological failures, which can negatively impact the bank's reputation. Ultimately, while the investment can potentially lead to increased customer retention and attraction, it must be assessed against the risks and financial outlay involved.