COMPETITIVENESS AND BUSINESS EXCELLENCE OF LARGE CROATIAN COMPANIES WITH A SPECIAL FOCUS ON STOCK MARKET VALUE

Competitiveness is one of the most significant challenges faced by companies to position themselves in the market and achieve excellence, thereby differentiating themselves from the competition. The Republic of Croatia is a developing country with a majority of small companies in its company structure. In terms of profits and employee numbers, large companies dominate the industry and economy as a whole. This paper aims to provide a theoretical basis and investigate the structure of companies in the Republic of Croatia, with a special focus on large companies listed on the stock exchange. Large companies are the carriers of the economy and have a significant influence on industry and investors who invest in stocks. The paper is based on stock trading data from the Zagreb Stock Exchange, with a special review and analysis of companies listed on the leading market. The results show the price range and business scope of the observed shares. Limitations of the research include a small sample size for the leading stock market and geographical limitations due to Croatias' small market size. Future research should include an analysis of other companies listed on the stock exchange, as well as a comparison of large companies and stock market operations with countries in Eastern Europe and the European Union. Large companies have a significant impact on global economies, and this studys' findings can contribute to a better understanding and increased participation by stakeholders and potential investors in company operations available on the stock exchange.