Research Academic Contributions
Academic research and professional practice are not separate worlds—they are complementary approaches to understanding and solving complex problems. Whether you’re an academic colleague, a policy maker, or a business leader, let’s explore how rigorous research can inform better decisions.
RESEARCH PHILOSOPHY
Bridging Theory and Practice
True expertise is not merely the application of existing knowledge—it is the continuous pursuit of deeper understanding, the questioning of established paradigms, and the development of new frameworks that advance both academic discourse and practical application.
Frank-Valère Yussa’s research agenda is driven by a fundamental belief: that the most pressing challenges in international business law and global economics cannot be solved by siloed thinking. They require interdisciplinary approaches that integrate legal analysis, economic theory, financial modeling, and geopolitical awareness.
His academic work focuses on the critical intersections where legal frameworks shape economic outcomes, where regulatory systems enable or constrain market development, and where cross-border transactions reveal the tensions and opportunities inherent in our increasingly interconnected global economy.
Economic Integration & Regional Trade BlocsEconomic Integration & Regional Trade Blocs
Corporate Governance in Emerging MarketsCorporate Governance in Emerging Markets
CURRENT DOCTORAL RESEARCH
Dual PhD Candidacy
PhD in Private International Law
Institution: Leading Russian University
Duration: 2025 – 2027
Research Focus: Cross-Border Legal Frameworks and Jurisdictional Conflicts
This doctoral research examines the evolving landscape of private international law in an era of increasing economic integration and regulatory fragmentation. The work explores how legal systems can better accommodate cross-border transactions while protecting national interests and ensuring equitable outcomes for all parties.
- How do conflicting jurisdictional claims impact the efficiency and fairness of cross-border commercial transactions?
- What legal frameworks best balance the need for regulatory sovereignty with the demands of global commerce?
- How can private international law adapt to emerging challenges such as digital commerce, cryptocurrency, and decentralized business models?
- What role should international arbitration play in resolving multi-jurisdictional commercial disputes?
- Comparative legal analysis across multiple jurisdictions
- Case study examination of complex cross-border transactions
- Empirical analysis of dispute resolution outcomes
- Stakeholder interviews with practitioners, judges, and policymakers
- Development of new frameworks for analyzing jurisdictional conflicts in cross-border transactions
- Practical recommendations for harmonizing international commercial law
- Policy proposals for modernizing private international law doctrines
- Insights for practitioners navigating multi-jurisdictional legal environments
PhD in World Economics and Finance
Institution: Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Duration: 2023 – 2026
Research Focus: Global Financial Systems and Cross-Border Capital Flows
This doctoral research investigates the dynamics of international capital flows, the evolution of global financial architecture, and the economic implications of cross-border investment patterns. The work examines how financial systems in emerging and developed markets interact, compete, and integrate in an era of rapid technological change and shifting geopolitical alignments.
- How do regulatory frameworks in different jurisdictions impact cross-border capital allocation efficiency?
- What factors drive foreign direct investment patterns between developed and emerging markets?
- How can emerging market economies optimize their financial regulatory frameworks to attract sustainable foreign investment while protecting domestic interests?
- What role do regional economic blocs play in shaping global financial flows?
- Quantitative analysis of cross-border investment data
- Econometric modeling of capital flow determinants
- Comparative analysis of regulatory frameworks across jurisdictions
- Case studies of successful and unsuccessful market integration initiatives
- New models for understanding the relationship between legal frameworks and capital flows
- Evidence-based policy recommendations for emerging market financial regulation
- Insights into the economic impacts of regional integration initiatives
- Practical frameworks for evaluating cross-border investment opportunities
RESEARCH THEMES
Cross-Border Mergers & Acquisitions
Research Focus:
Legal and economic factors influencing the success of cross-border M&A transactions, with particular emphasis on transactions involving emerging markets.
Key Questions:
- What legal structures optimize value creation in cross-border M&A?
- How do cultural and institutional differences impact post-merger integration?
- What role does regulatory uncertainty play in cross-border deal pricing?
Publications in Development:
- “Regulatory Arbitrage in Cross-Border M&A: Opportunities and Risks”
- “Valuation Challenges in Emerging Market Acquisitions”
- “Legal Due Diligence in Multi-Jurisdictional Transactions”
Private International Law & Jurisdictional Conflicts
Research Focus:
The application of private international law principles to modern commercial transactions, including choice of law, forum selection, and enforcement of foreign judgments.
Key Questions:
- How should courts determine applicable law in complex multi-jurisdictional disputes?
- What factors should influence forum selection in international commercial litigation?
- How can international arbitration be made more efficient and accessible?
Publications in Development:
- “Forum Shopping in International Commercial Litigation: Efficiency or Abuse?”
- “The Role of Party Autonomy in Private International Law”
- “Enforcing Foreign Judgments: Comparative Perspectives”
Economic Integration & Regional Trade Blocs
Research Focus:
The legal and economic implications of regional economic integration, with focus on Africa, Latin America, and Eurasia.
Key Questions:
- What legal frameworks best support regional economic integration?
- How do regional trade agreements impact foreign direct investment patterns?
- What lessons can emerging market integration initiatives learn from the EU experience?
Publications in Development:
- “Legal Frameworks for African Economic Integration”
- “LATAM Trade Agreements: Economic Impact and Legal Challenges”
- “Eurasian Economic Union: Opportunities and Obstacles”
Corporate Governance in Emerging Markets
Research Focus:
The relationship between corporate governance structures, legal frameworks, and economic performance in emerging market contexts.
Key Questions:
- How do governance structures impact firm performance in emerging markets?
- What legal reforms best support improved corporate governance?
- How can minority shareholder rights be protected in concentrated ownership structures?
Publications in Development:
- “Corporate Governance Reform in Emerging Markets: A Legal and Economic Analysis”
- “Protecting Minority Shareholders: Comparative Legal Approaches”
- “The Role of Independent Directors in Emerging Market Corporations”
ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS
Completed Graduate Degrees
Master of Laws (LLM) – Corporate Law, Banking & Finance
Institution: Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Graduation: 2023-2025
Distinction: Graduated with Honours
Thesis Focus:
Advanced legal frameworks for cross-border banking transactions and corporate finance structures in multi-jurisdictional environments.
Key Coursework:
- Advanced Corporate Law
- International Banking Regulation
- Mergers & Acquisitions Law
- Securities Regulation
- Corporate Finance Law
- Comparative Commercial Law
- International Arbitration
- Financial Derivatives and Structured Products
Academic Achievement:
Recognized for exceptional academic performance and original research contributions to the field of corporate and banking law.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – International Finance & Banking
Institution: Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Graduation: September 2021 – July 2023
Distinction: Best Graduate, RUDN Business School | Top-Tier Student Overall
Thesis Focus:
Strategic financial management and investment banking practices in cross-border contexts, with emphasis on emerging market opportunities.
Key Coursework:
- Corporate Finance
- Investment Banking
- International Financial Management
- Financial Modeling and Valuation
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Private Equity and Venture Capital
- Risk Management
- Strategic Management
- International Business
Academic Achievement:
Awarded Best Graduate of the Peoples’ Friendship University Business School, recognized as top-tier student across all programs.
TEACHING & ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS
Teaching Experience
Teaching Assistant – Institutional Economy and Finance
Institution: Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Period: March 2022 – June 2023
Courses Taught:
Institutional Economy and Finance (BBA Students)
- Theoretical foundations of institutional economics
- Financial system architecture and regulation
- The role of institutions in economic development
- Comparative analysis of financial systems
- Case studies in institutional reform
General Economics – Pharmaceutical Industry Focus (Medical Students)
- Economic principles applied to healthcare markets
- Pharmaceutical industry economics and regulation
- Healthcare financing and insurance systems
- Drug pricing and market access
- Economic evaluation of medical interventions
Teaching Philosophy:
Bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice by incorporating case studies, current events, and practical examples from professional experience. Emphasizing critical thinking, analytical rigor, and the application of economic principles to complex business challenges.
Student Impact:
- Trained hundreds of future business leaders and healthcare professionals
- Developed innovative teaching materials integrating law, economics, and finance
- Received positive student evaluations for practical, engaging instruction
- Mentored students on career development and professional skills
PUBLICATIONS & PRESENTATIONS
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Academic Networks
RESEARCH COLLABORATIONS
Institutional Affiliations:
- Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
- Leading Russian University (PhD Program)
- International research networks in law and economics
Collaborative Research:
- Working with faculty across multiple disciplines
- Participating in international research projects
- Contributing to multi-author studies and edited volumes
Advanced Topics in Private International Law
Professional Networks:
FUTURE RESEARCH AGENDA
Emerging Technologies and Law:
- Legal and economic implications of blockchain and cryptocurrency
- Regulation of artificial intelligence in financial services
- Digital platforms and cross-border commerce
Geopolitical Shifts and Economic Law:
- Impact of changing geopolitical alignments on international business law
- Legal frameworks for South-South economic cooperation
- The future of multilateral economic institutions
Sustainable Development and Corporate Law:
- Legal frameworks for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance
- Corporate law and climate change
- Sustainable finance regulation
Advanced Topics in Private International Law:
- Jurisdiction in the digital age
- Cross-border insolvency in complex corporate structures
- International arbitration reform
RESEARCH RESOURCES
For Academics & Researchers
Collaboration Opportunities:
Interested in collaborative research on law, economics, and international business? Contact Frank-Valère to discuss potential projects.
Speaking Engagements:
Available for academic conferences, workshops, and seminars on topics related to international business law, corporate finance, and cross-border transactions.
Research Consultation:
Providing expert consultation for academic research projects requiring expertise in private international law, corporate finance, or emerging market economics.
Research-Informed Practice:
Frank-Valère’s legal practice is informed by rigorous academic research, ensuring clients benefit from evidence-based strategies and cutting-edge insights.
Custom Research:
Available to conduct targeted research on specific legal or economic questions relevant to client matters.
Thought Leadership:
Regular insights and analysis on developments in international business law and global economics.
