The paper shows a new non-parametric test, based on symbolic entropy, which permits detect spatial causality in cross-section data. The test is robust to the functional form of the relation and has a good behaviour in samples of medium to large size. We illustrate the use of test with the case...

We study the role of the propensity scores in estimating treatment effects for the treated with a multi-valued treatment.  Assume assignment to one of the multiple treatments is random given observed characteristics.  Valid causal comparisons for the subpopulation who has been treated a...

In this paper we propose an asymptotically equivalent single-step alternative to the two-step partially linear model estimator in Robinson (1988). The estimator not only has the potential to decrease computing time dramatically, it shows substantial finite sample gains in Monte Carlo simulations.

The paper focuses on the issue of the modifiable areal unit problem, which means a possibility of obtaining various results for spatial economic analyses depending on the assumed composition of territorial units. The major research objective of the work is to examine the scale problem that...

The paper focuses on the issue of the aggregation problem which is frequently discussed within spatial econometrics. Aggregation problem is one of two aspects of the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP). The aggregation problem is connected with the volatility of the obtained results occurred...

Performance in the manufacturing sector, in relation to productivity growth, scale efficiency and technical efficiency in India is dichotomous in nature, depending on whether the firm in question functions in the formal or informal sector. The main differences between these two sectors and the...

This paper derives some exact power properties of tests for spatial autocorrelation in the context of a linear regression model. In particular, we characterize the circumstances in which the power vanishes as the autocorrelation increases, thus extending the work of Krämer (2005, Journal of...

Estimation of average treatment effects under unconfoundedness or exogenous treatment assignment is often hampered by lack of overlap in the covariate distributions. This lack of overlap can lead to imprecise estimates and can make commonly used estimators sensitive to the choice of...

In spatial econometrics, it is customary to specify a weighting matrix, the so-called W matrix. The decision is important because the choice of W matrix determines the rest of the analysis. However, the procedure is not well defined and, usually, reflects the priors of the user. In the paper, we...

During the 90s the increase in health spending which compared to the overall growth had taken place at a rather rapid pace experienced a worldwide slow-down. In relation to overall economic growth and the expansion of other countries' health care systems, Austria's system grew below average- a...