A longstanding theoretical discussion on the merits of prices vs.quantities for regulating emissions under uncertainty exists in environmentalpolicy literature. However, empirical evidence w.r.t. instrumentchoice has not been put forward so far. In particular, verylittle is known about...

Using a unique longitudinal data set on all manufacturing firms in Slovenia from 1994-2001, this study analyzes how firm efficiency changed in response to changing competitive pressures associated with the transition to market. Results show that the period was one of atypically rapid growth of...

Does competitive pressure foster innovation? In addressing this important question, priorstudies ignored a distinction between discrete innovation aiming at entirely new technologyand continuous improvement consisting of numerous incremental improvements andmodifications made upon the existing...

We examine the role of leverage in tender offers for widely held firms. Leverage allows raiders to appropriate part of the value gains arising from takeovers, hence reducing the takeover premium and mitigating the free-rider problem.(...)

Caplin & Leahy (1996) show that, when central bankers learn about theeconomy by observing its response to policy shock, cautious monetary policymay be ineffectual as private agents correctly anticipate that today's interestrate cuts are likely to be followed by future cuts. The central banker...

To shed light on the empirical relevance of the limits to arbitrage, we study hedge funds’ trading patterns in the stock market during liquidity crises. Consistent with arbitrageurs’ limited ability to provide liquidity, we find that at the time of liquidity crises hedge funds reduce their...

As a consequence of implementing revenue management systems, many service firms (e.g., airlines, hotels, carrentals) systematically overbook capacity, thus striving to maximize the revenue at one particular point in time (i.e.,one flight, one night, and one day). The academic literature has not...

In many markets firms set posted prices which are potentially negotiable. We analyze theoptimal marketing mix of pricing and bargaining when price takers buy at posted prices butbargainers attempt to negotiate discounts. The optimal bargaining strategy involves the firmsoffering bargainers...

A review of research evidence suggests that low levels of educationalattainment are crucial in generating and sustaining social exclusion. Testscores at school are the most effective predictor of many adult outcomes.School attendance and soft skills are also important. Reviewing the...