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Asymmetric Learning and the CEO Labor Market

Author

Listed:
  • Michael Waldman

    (Cornell University)

  • Jan Zabojnik

Abstract

Many models of the CEO market build on the classic analyses of Lucas (1978) and Rosen (1982) characterized by full information, a limited role for firm-specific human capital, and efficient allocation of workers across jobs and firms. But empirical evidence is not consistent with this approach. We explore an alternative focused on asymmetry of information between an executive's prospective employer and other potential employers, and an important role for firm-specific human capital. We show that our model better captures findings in the empirical literature concerning the CEO labor market than both the full information and efficient assignment approach and alternative models based on asymmetric information and inefficiencies.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Waldman & Jan Zabojnik, 2025. "Asymmetric Learning and the CEO Labor Market," Working Paper 1539, Economics Department, Queen's University.
    • Handle: RePEc:qed:wpaper:1539
    as

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    File URL: https://www.econ.queensu.ca/sites/econ.queensu.ca/files/wpaper/qed_wp_1539.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • G34 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Mergers; Acquisitions; Restructuring; Corporate Governance
    • J62 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Job, Occupational and Intergenerational Mobility; Promotion

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