This paper examines the relationship between input sector liberalization and product quality innovation and export orientation by a LDC firm given the complementarity between high input quality and high product quality. We show that input sector liberalization per se may not induce quality...

Within the independent private-values paradigm, we derive the data-generating process of the winning bid for the last unit sold at multi-unit, sequential, oral, ascending-price auctions when bidder valuations are draws from different distributions; i.e., in the presence of asymmetries. When the...

We provide a framework for inference in discrete games that involve multiple decision makers and use it to study airline market structure in the US. We make inferences on a "class of models" rather that looking for point identifying assumptions that pin down a unique model. Making inferences in...

In this paper we explore the implications of the possibility of “trade in trash†on optimal environmental policy and on the ramifications of a stronger or weaker environmental lobby across regions or nations. We have constructed a multiple stage game composed of a market stage and a...

In 1997, the FDA relaxed regulations on direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising for pharmaceutical products. This has led to a substantial increase in such expenditures which in turn raises some important public policy questions. For example, has this increase in DTC advertising affected the...

We employ a simple two-period model to show that the use of confidential settlement as a strategy for a firm facing tort litigation leads to lower average product safety than that which would be produced if a firm were committed to openness. Moreover, confidentiality can even lead to declining...

We provide an alternative theoretical explanation for a number of empirical regularities relating to the dynamics of industry structrure (product life cycle) and changes in size and age distribution of firms over time. We explain why entry may continue over a considerable period of time, why...

We propose a new location model where consumers are allowed to make multiple purchases (i.e., one unit from each firm). This model fits many markets (e.g. newspapers, credit cards, scholarly journals, subscriptions to TV channels, etc.) better than existing models. A common feature of these...

Trade and growth theories predict a mutual causation of innovation and exports. We test empirically whether innovation causes exports using a uniquely rich German micro dataset. To overcome the potential endogeneity, we need to identify variations in innovations that are exogenous to export...

We present two information-based rationales for why sellers of returnable goods tend to offer refunds in excess of the salvage value of the good. Both explanations require at least the potential presence of consumers who can choose to learn their values for the good prior to purchasing.