Authorizations to invest : an indicator of the activity of french firms abroad - French investments abroad are subject to the prior authorization of « la direction générale du Trésor » (Treasury Department) after evaluation by the Ministry of Industry and Research. The study of these files makes it possible to isolate the tendencies of industrial investment abroad, or at least the investment intentions. Considered together, the years 1973-1974 showed a decrease in the growth of the operations observed in preceeding years; however, though 1975 emerged as a bleak year, the first three quarters of 1976 were marked by a beginning of recovery. The division of investments into sectors shows the important role assumed by the oil sector, while indu...