We test a q investment model for Belgium using a multivariate cointegration approach. The introduction of the degree of capacity utilization duc, in addition to investment and average q, is necessary to determine the cointegration space. This supports the idea that marginal q differs from...

We consider an overlapping generations model with uncertain lifetime and endogenous growth. Individuals have to choose the length of time devoted to schooling before starting to work. We show that it depends positively on life expectancy but that the positive effect of a longer life on growth...

We address the issue of altruism when standard-of-living aspirations are transmitted from one generation to the other. In that case, the influence of altruistic parents is not limited to the bequest they could leave; indeed, they direct the evolution of children's aspirations toward raising their...

To what extent can the persistence of very high unemployment rates in most of the European countries be attributed to the presence of high real interest rates ? This question, essentially addressed by the ‘customer market’ price)setting school, was very much debated in Europe these last...

This paper presents an intertemporal model in which the agents may face different quantity constraints resulting from technological rigidities, microeconomic uncertainty and market segmentation. Its main purpose is to derive the path of the unemployment rate, the rate of capacity utilisation and...

An exchange rate devaluation oriented to correct internal and external imbalances is considered in a tradeable/non-tradeable model where the domestic prices are rigid downwards and wages are set by unions. First, the policy is ineffective as long as there is an efficiency disjunction, i.e., the...

We extent Ramsey’s model to be in accordance with the facts that self-reported satisfaction levels are almost unrelated to economic prosperity, both across countries and across time. We assume that things are judged by the extent to which they depart from collective norms. Norms are based on...

We build a computable general equilibrium model with overlapping generations of agents and an endogenous growth specification à la Lucas. Two main issues are addressed: (i) to what extent does endogenous growth play a significant role in the face of policy reform and (ii) are the simulation...

We build a multi-sector model with wage bargaining and imperfect competition to analyse the links between wage interdependence and competitiveness. Quantity constraints together with union power, firm market power and wage externalities play a significant role in the determination of...

The standard efficient contract involving a monopolistic firm and a union has always been derived under the assumption that the firm operates efficiently, i.e. it uses fully its labor force. However, nothing constrains the firm to do so and production with under-utilization of labor may actually...