This paper suggests a new approach to analyze the causes of franchise extension. Based on a new dataset, it provides a detailed econometric study of the Great Reform Act of 1832 in the United Kingdom. The econometric analysis yields four main results. First, modernization theory only receives...

According to standard theory, the set of implementable outcome functions is reduced if the mechanism or contract can be renegotiated ex post. In some cases contracts can achieve nothing and so, for example, the holdup problem may be severe. This paper shows that if the mechanism is designed in...

Recognizing the problems of estimation error in computing risk premia via arbitrage pricing, this paper provides a Bayesian methodology for estimating factor risk premia and hence equity risk premia for both traded and non-traded factors. Some illustrative calculations based on UK equity are...

The copula function is considered within the context of financial multivariate data sets that are not normally distributed. The Bernstein polynomial approximation to copulae is given and motivated by its desirable properties. The multivariate convergence properties are analysed. The concept of...

Electricity generators can raise the price of power by withholding their plant from the market. We discuss two ways in which this could have affected prices in the England and Wales Pool. Withholding low-cost capacity that should be generating will raise energy prices but make the pattern of...

This paper considers the solution of nonlinear rational expectations models resulting from the optimality conditions of a finite-horizon intertemporal optimisation problem satisfying Bellman's principle of optimality (and possibly involving inequality constraints). A backward recursive procedure...

In a New Keynesian macroeconomic model under credible commitment, price level targeting dominates inflation targeting. But with sufficient inflation aversion the inflation targeting central bank can produce quantitatively similar results to one targeting the price level. The current degree of...

The so-called “electricity wholesale market” is, in fact, a sequence of several markets. The chain is closed with a provision for “balancing,” in which energy from all wholesale markets is balanced under the authority of the Transmission Grid Manager (TSO in Europe, ISO in the United...

Quality of service has emerged as an important issue in post-reform regulation of electricity distribution networks. Regulators have employed partial incentive schemes to promote cost saving, investment efficiency, and service quality. This paper presents a quality-incorporated benchmarking...