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On the dynamic optimality of yardstick regulation

Author

Listed:
  • Michele Bisceglia

    (Toulouse School of Economics
    University of Bergamo)

  • Roberto Cellini

    (University of Catania)

  • Luca Grilli

    (University of Foggia)

Abstract

This paper proposes a generalization of Shleifer’s (RAND J Econ 16:319–327, 1985) model of yardstick competition to a dynamic framework. In a differential game setting, we show that the yardstick mechanism effectively replicates the first-best solution if players adopt open-loop behaviour rules and are symmetric at the initial time; in the absence of initial symmetry, the social efficiency is reached only in the asymptotic steady state. On the contrary, if players adopt Markovian behaviour rules, then the yardstick pricing rule cannot achieve the first-best solution along the equilibrium path of any Markov Perfect Nash Equilibrium.

Suggested Citation

  • Michele Bisceglia & Roberto Cellini & Luca Grilli, 2022. "On the dynamic optimality of yardstick regulation," Annals of Operations Research, Springer, vol. 315(1), pages 73-92, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:annopr:v:315:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1007_s10479-022-04671-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10479-022-04671-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bisceglia, Michele & Cellini, Roberto & Siciliani, Luigi & Straume, Odd Rune, 2020. "Optimal dynamic volume-based price regulation," International Journal of Industrial Organization, Elsevier, vol. 73(C).
    2. Potters, Jan & Rockenbach, Bettina & Sadrieh, Abdolkarim & van Damme, Eric, 2004. "Collusion under yardstick competition: an experimental study," International Journal of Industrial Organization, Elsevier, vol. 22(7), pages 1017-1038, September.
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    1. Albert Argilaga & Jijian Fan, 2022. "Optimal Policymaking under Yardstick Vote: An Experimental Study," Games, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-24, May.

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