Multinationals, transfer pricing, and tax competition: competition for capital versus competition for profits (Ref: LB25-BF-BG-unfunded)

There is growing concern among policymakers and the public that ‘aggressive tax planning’ by multinational corporations, such as international profit shifting through transfer pricing, undermines national tax bases and reduces public spending capacity. However, most economic analyses of tax competition have traditionally focused on contests for real capital, such as foreign direct investment (FDI), rather than on contests for reported profits.

This PhD project aims to address this gap by using both empirical and theoretical methods to investigate the emerging intergovernmental tax competition for reported profits and how it differs from the traditional competition for FDI. Key, policy-relevant questions to be explored include: How can ‘aggressive tax planning’ by multinationals be effectively tackled? How do the identities of a country’s international competitors shift when the focus is on reported profits rather than FDI?

The project will be supervised by a team comprising a leading researcher in tax competition, and experts in the economics of international trade and globalization. It tackles a highly topical issue in international policymaking and offers significant potential for impactful publications and the launch of a successful research career. As a PhD student within Loughborough Business School, you will join a vibrant research community and benefit from advanced training opportunities designed to support your academic and professional growth.

94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

Supervisors

• Primary supervisor: Dr Ben Ferrett
• Secondary supervisor: Dr Bo Gao

Entry requirements

At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) with a UK master’s degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Loughborough Business School requires a minimum IELTS band 7.0 or above with not less than 7.0 in each component. Further details are available on the international website.

Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry

• UK fee – To be confirmed Full-time degree per annum
• International fee – £22,360 Full-time degree per annum

How to apply

1. Put together your research proposal (between 2,500 to 3,000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal.
2. All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Business School’. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number: LB25-BF-BG-unfunded.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them take a decision on your application.

Apply now