We formulate a model with a continuum of individuals to be assigned to a continuum of different positions which is an extension of the finite housing market version due to Shapley and Shubik. We show that optimal solutions to such a model exist and have properties similar to those established...

The distinction between nonatomicity and thick markets as the source of perfect competition is examined. The authors construct a model of an imperfectly competitive economy with a nonatomic continuum of traders and a continuum of differentiated commodities for which Walrasian equilibria exist....

The first theorem of welfare economics rests on the assumption that individuals have neither price-making nor market-making capacities. The authors offer a revision in which individuals have such capacities. The revision emphasizes two keys for market efficiency: the need to align private...

Walrasian general competitive equilibrium is considered in a simple example of an exchange economy with commodity-pairwise trading posts and transaction costs. Budget balance is enforced at each trading post separately. Commodity-denominated bid and ask prices at each post allow the post to...

General equilibrium is investigated with N commodities traded at N(N − 1)/2 commodity-pairwise trading posts. Bid and ask prices are quoted as commodity rates of exchange. Trade is a resource-using activity undertaken by firms recovering transaction costs through the spread between bid...