This study investigates reference-dependent choice with a stochastic, state-dependent reference point. The optimal reference-dependent solution equals the optimal consumption solution (no loss aversion) if the reference point is selected fully endogenously. Given that loss aversion is...

This paper considers a model of reference-dependent utility in which the individual makes a conscious choice of her reference point for future consumption. The model incorporates the combination of loss aversion and anticipatory utility as competing forces in the determination of the optimal...

In this thesis we explore two recent topics in behavioral finance, namely portfolio optimization by non-expected utility insiders and existence of equilibria in financial markets populated by heterogeneous agents. Firstly, we review a number of theories which have been used to model behavioral...

In 1996 Alan Greenspan warned that stock prices were "unduly escalated" and reflected "irrational exuberance". In this paper we describe an economy that can support a prolonged surge of asset prices, accompanied by a sharp increase of volatility. We study an equilibrium model where some agents...

In 1996 Alan Greenspan warned that stock prices were "unduly escalated" and reflected "irrational exuberance". In this paper we describe an economy that can support a prolonged surge of asset prices, accompanied by a sharp increase of volatility. We study an equilibrium model where some agents...

In this paper, we develop a consumption-based asset pricing model motivated by prospect theory, where habit formation determines the endogenous reference point. This exploits the similarity between habit formation and prospect theory. Both emphasize that the investor does not care about the...

We develop a model that fleshes out, extends, and modifies existing models of reference dependent preferences and loss aversion while accomodating most of the evidence motivating these models. Our approach makes reference-dependent theory more broadly applicable by avoiding some of the ways that...

This study verifies whether the results of proportional capital income taxation on the risk-taking of a loss-averse investor will still hold when the return of a risky asset has a general continuous distribution. We extend the previous literature, which assumes a binomial distribution of asset...

This paper is the first to apply prospect theory to societal health-related decision making. In particular, we allow for utility curvature, equity weighting, sign-dependence, and loss aversion in choices concerning quality of life of other people. We find substantial inequity aversion, both for...

This paper proposes a new, individual measure of market risk, denoted as the individually acceptable loss (IAL). This measure can be used by portfolio managers in order to better meet the individual profiles of their non-professional clients, including phsychological traits. It can be easily...