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Innovative Activity and Sunk Cost

Author

Listed:
  • Kaplan, T.R.
  • Luski, I.
  • Wettstein, D.

Abstract

We introduce time-dependent rewards into a general framework for analyzing innovative activity among firms with sunk costs of R&D. When firms are identical, innovation is delayed by an increase in the number of firms or a decrease in the size of the reward. When one firm has higher profit potential, it is more likely to innovate first. Our framework generalizes an all-pay auction; however, we show that under conditions there is qualitatively different equilibrium behavior.

Suggested Citation

  • Kaplan, T.R. & Luski, I. & Wettstein, D., 2000. "Innovative Activity and Sunk Cost," Discussion Papers 0006, University of Exeter, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:exe:wpaper:0006
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    COSTS ; RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ; AUCTIONS;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D44 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Auctions
    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D

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