infonet-economy

In this paper, we examine non-parametric restrictions on counterfactual analysis in a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model. Under the assumption of time-separable expected utility and complete markets all equilibria in this model are stationary. The Arrow-Debreu prices uniquely reveal the probabilities and discount factor. The equilibrium correspondence, defined as the map from endowments to stationary (probability-free) state prices, is identical to the equilibrium correspondence in a standard Arrow-Debreu exchange economy with additively separable utility. We examine possible restriction on this correspondence and give necessary as well as sufficient conditions on profiles of individual endowments that ensure that associated equilibrium prices cannot be arbitrary. Although restrictions on possible price changes often exist, we show that results from a representative-agent economy usually do not carry over to a setting with heterogeneous agents.

This paper develops a method to compute the equilibrium correspondence for exchange economies with semi-algebraic preferences. Given a class of semi-algebraic exchange economies parameterized by individual endowments and possibly other exogenous variables such as preference parameters or asset payoffs, there exists a semi-algebraic correspondence that maps parameters to positive numbers such that for generic parameters each competitive equilibrium can be associated with an element of the correspondence and each endogenous variable (i.e. prices and consumptions) is a rational function of that value of the correspondence and the parameters.

This correspondence can be characterized as zeros of a univariate polynomial equation that satisfy additional polynomial inequalities. This polynomial as well as the rational functions that determine equilibrium can be computed using versions of Buchberger's algorithm which is part of most computer algebra systems. The computation is exact whenever the input data (i.e. preference parameters etc.) are rational. Therefore, the result provides theoretical foundations for a systematic analysis of multiplicity in applied general equilibrium.

Purpose – In order to classify individuals based on their needs, this paper aims to consider both self-stated attitudes and behaviours in a comprehensive range of daily financial affairs. Furthermore, it aims to study the impacts of socio-demographic variables such as gender, age, and education.

Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire was answered by 1,282 respondents in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Factor analysis revealed five components. Based on these components a two-step cluster analysis (Ward and K-means analyses) identified distinct subgroups. Linear regressions were used to investigate the impacts of socio-demographic variables.

Findings – Factor analysis revealed five underlying dimensions of financial attitudes and behaviour: anxiety, interests in financial issues, decision styles, need for precautionary savings, and spending tendency. Cluster analysis segmented the respondents into five subgroups based on these dimensions with an ascending order of specific needs for financial products. Gender, age, and education were found to have significant impacts.

Research limitations/implications – Real consumption behaviour cannot be observed through the survey, which limits the external validity of the study.

Practical implications – The segmentation identifies different levels of financial competence and needs for financial products. It allows financial service providers to offer more effective advice and to meet customers on their own level to improve personal financial management.

Originality/value – Attitudes and behaviours in daily financial affairs are examined to reveal individuals' financial competence and consequential product needs. A heterogeneous sample covers a variety of demographic groups.

In this paper we present a recursive method for the computation of dynamic competitive equilibria in models with heterogeneous agents and market frictions. This method is based on a convergent operator over an expanded set of state variables. The fixed point of this operator defines the set of all Markovian equilibria. We study approximation properties of the operator as well as the convergence of the moments of simulated sample paths. We apply our numerical algorithm to two growth models, an overlapping generations economy with money, and an asset pricing model with financial frictions.