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Technological Synergies, Heterogeneous Firms, and Idiosyncratic Volatility

Author

Listed:
  • Jesús Fernández-Villaverde
  • Yang Yu
  • Francesco Zanetti

Abstract

This paper shows the importance of technological synergies among heterogeneous firms for aggregate fluctuations. First, we document six novel empirical facts using microdata that suggest the existence of important technological synergies between trading firms, the presence of positive assortative matching among firms, and their evolution during the business cycle. Next, we embed technological synergies in a general equilibrium model calibrated on firm-level data. We show that frictions in forming trading relationships and separation costs explain imperfect sorting between firms in equilibrium. In particular, an increase in the volatility of idiosyncratic productivity shocks significantly decreases aggregate output without resorting to non-convex adjustment costs.

Suggested Citation

  • Jesús Fernández-Villaverde & Yang Yu & Francesco Zanetti, 2024. "Technological Synergies, Heterogeneous Firms, and Idiosyncratic Volatility," NBER Working Papers 32247, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32247
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C63 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Computational Techniques
    • C78 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Bargaining Theory; Matching Theory
    • E3 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles

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