Distinguishing Global from International

Global vs International

In everyday conversation, the words “global” and “international” are often used interchangeably, as if they mean the same thing. However, there are subtle differences between the two, particularly in the contexts of marketing, investment, and advertising. Understanding these differences allows for more accurate and effective communication.

Key Takeaways

• Global means worldwide or universal, applying to the whole world, while international applies to two or more countries.
• Global marketing and advertising involve a universal strategy, whereas international marketing and advertising refer to area-specific policies and strategies.
• Global funds consist of securities from all parts of the world, including the investor’s own country; international funds are securities from foreign countries, excluding the investor’s own, for diversification purposes.

In recent years, the word “global” has become more popular in the context of anything that applies to the entire world. Examples include global studies, global warming, global economy, and global treaties. The term “global” comes from the word “globe,” which refers to the Earth. When a successful company in a country decides to expand its business to other markets around the world, we often talk about the company’s global aspirations.

In terms of investments, there are global funds that consist of securities from all parts of the world, including the investor’s own country. This is in contrast to international funds, which are securities from foreign countries, excluding the investor’s own, to help diversify and protect against fluctuations in the domestic economy.

Similarly, multinational companies may have a global marketing or advertising strategy, as well as an international policy for marketing and advertising that depends on local markets and cultures.

The term “international” is used when referring to matters involving more than two countries, such as international treaties, international languages (e.g., English), international laws, international studies, and international sports tournaments.

In essence, “international” signifies something between two countries, like intercontinental and intercity trains. However, it has been generalized to indicate something that applies to many countries. International trade, for example, refers to trade between two or more countries. International does not mean global and remains confined to the countries involved in a specific endeavor, such as international trade.