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Contests with sequential entry and incomplete information

Author

Listed:
  • Deng, Shanglyu

    (Department of Economics, University of Macau)

  • Fu, Qiang

    (Department of Strategy and Policy, National University of Singapore)

  • Wu, Zenan

    (School of Economics, Peking University)

  • Zhu, Yuxuan

    (School of Economics, Peking University)

Abstract

This paper provides a general study of a contest modeled as a multi-player incomplete-information all-pay auction with sequential entry. The contest consists of multiple periods. Players arrive and exert efforts sequentially to compete for a prize. They observe the efforts made by their earlier opponents, but not those of their contemporaneous or future rivals. We establish the existence and uniqueness of a symmetric perfect Bayesian equilibrium (PBE) and fully characterize the equilibrium. Based on the equilibrium result, we show that a later mover always secures a larger ex ante expected payoff. Further, we endogenize the timing of moves and show that all players choose to move in the last period in the unique equilibrium that survives iterated elimination of strictly dominated strategies (IESDS).

Suggested Citation

  • Deng, Shanglyu & Fu, Qiang & Wu, Zenan & Zhu, Yuxuan, 2024. "Contests with sequential entry and incomplete information," Theoretical Economics, Econometric Society, vol. 19(2), May.
    • Handle: RePEc:the:publsh:5367
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Contest with sequential entry; all-pay auction; later-mover advantage; endogenous timing;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • D43 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Oligopoly and Other Forms of Market Imperfection
    • D44 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Auctions
    • D82 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Asymmetric and Private Information; Mechanism Design
    • L13 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Oligopoly and Other Imperfect Markets

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