Li Xian Liu

Dr. Li Xian Liu transitioned to an academic career after earning a PhD in Finance and Economics from RMIT University in December 2011, supported by an Australian Postgraduate Award scholarship. Before joining James Cook University (JCU), Dr. Liu taught and coordinated both undergraduate and postgraduate finance courses, including MBA programs, at several Australian universities, such as Australian National University, University of Canberra, University of South Australia, and Curtin University.

Dr. Liu’s research focuses on the theoretical, practical, and cross-disciplinary aspects of finance and business. Her areas of expertise include investment, corporate finance, financial institutions (particularly in the banking and funds management sectors), foreign direct investment, knowledge transfer in multinational enterprises (MNEs), and sustainability. She has published a scholarly book, and her research papers have appeared in various international peer-reviewed journals.

My passion for research is driven by the quest to answer meaningful questions and explore their implications for the real world. I believe that critical thinking enables us to generate new ideas, theories, and projects that advance our field and expand our understanding, ultimately contributing to new knowledge.

In addition to critical thinking, I value maintaining an open mind, which has led me to engage in cross-disciplinary studies. I believe that interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary collaboration is a powerful way to broaden our understanding of specific research questions and to develop innovative ideas and perspectives.

Research Interested Areas:

• Foreign Portfolio Investment
• Foreigh Direct Investment
• Financial Services (such as banks, funds, ESG on banking etc.)
• Corporate Finance including cross-listing, and international corporate governance 
• Sustainability
• Knowledge Transfer in MNEs

I consider life to be a lifelong learning process. Teaching allows me to fulfill this belief by treating all my students equally, regardless of ethnicity, age, or gender. I believe that greater diversity brings fresh ideas into our studies. Teaching is also a way to pass on knowledge and discover new unknowns. Therefore, I encourage students to appreciate the power of knowledge and to think critically.

My ultimate goal in teaching and learning is to help all students achieve their greatest potential and succeed without lowering standards. In addition to teaching the principles of finance, I have several objectives for my students:

1. Actively engage in the learning process.
2. Develop self-study skills.
3. Recognize that finance is interconnected with business, economics, and culture, and should be understood in context. Students should see the relevance of finance to their lives.

To achieve these objectives, I implement various teaching and learning methods. I believe students can learn more and reach their full potential in a friendly learning environment. Overall, finance is an interesting subject in our learning journey. Understanding finance helps us understand how our world works. Enjoy!