This paper empirically investigates and theoretically reflects on the generality of the "stylized facts" discussed in business cycle analysis. Using OECD data for 1960 - 2010, the duration of business cycles as well as three models capturing core macroeconomic relations are estimated: based on...

This paper studies the business cycle in Germany using the HP-filter (Hodrick/Prescott (1997)) to isolate the cyclical component. A two-country International Business Cycle model in line with Baxter/Crucini (1995) is built to explain these facts. The combination of GHH-preferences with taste...

A recent theoretical literature highlights the role of endogenous firm entry as an internal amplification mechanism of business cycle fluctuations. The amplification mechanism works through the competition and the variety effect. This paper tests the significance of this amplification mechanism,...

Diese Dissertation beschäftigt sich mit den makroökonomischen Konsequenzen der Annahme heterogener Firmen. Die geldpolitischen Implikationen stehen dabei im Vordergrund. In den ersten beiden, theoretisch ausgerichteten Kapiteln liegt der Fokus auf der Tatsache, dass Firmen unterschiedlich...