I propose a new term structure model for euro area real and nominal interest rates which explicitly incorporates a time-varying lower bound for nominal interest rates. Results suggest that the lower bound is of importance in structural analyses implying time-varying impulse responses of yield...

In this paper we propose a two-step semiparametric procedure to estimate first-price auction models. In the first-step, we estimate the bid density and distribution using local polynomial method, and recover a sample of (pseudo) private values. In the second-step, we apply the method of moments...

It is the basic proposition of this paper that the problem with marginal cost theory (Coase, 1946) cannot be adequately addressed within the framework of neo-classical economics. The innumerable products and services, which are available on the market, are not provided because the cost of...

This paper investigates the role played by the cultural norms of particularism and universalism for collusive bribery. In our theoretical framework, the act of proposing or demanding a bribe violates a commonly held social norm, thus producing a psychological cost. By lowering this psychological...

International commodity markets may be characterised by price or quantity competition and by product differentiation. As an illustration, we present a set of models of the Japanese market for imported beef. The models are evaluated using an non-nested econometric test. The one which best fits...

This paper examines, both theoretically and empirically, the effect of social networks and belonging to minority groups (or race) on the probability of winning in reality television shows. We develop a theoretical model that studies viewer behavior by presenting a framework of competition...

This paper studies the dynamics of violence in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict since the outbreak of the Second (or Al-Aqsa) Intifada in September 2000, during which more than 3,300 Palestinians and more than 1,000 Israelis have been killed. The conflict has followed an uneven pattern, with...

Previous literature has identified considerable non-pecuniary costs to macroeconomic fluctuation and uncertainty. The present paper investigates whether and to what extent labor market institutions can mitigate those costs. We study how life satisfaction of European citizens is affected by...

This paper examines, both theoretically and empirically, the effect of social networks and belonging to minority groups (or race) on the probability of winning in reality television shows. We develop a theoretical model that studies viewer behavior by presenting a framework of competition...