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Incomplete Contracts, Property Rights and Endogenous Outside Options

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  • Antonio Nicita
  • Massimiliamo Vatiro

Abstract

This paper extends the framework provided by the so-called GHM approach to a context of endogenous outside options, showing how the optimality of property rights assignment might be reversed. In some cases, non-owners could over-invest in specific assets while having mere access to property rights might not prevent hold-up. Our conclusions suggest that in order to reach the desired optimality features, the design of ownership structure should take into account the dynamics of outside options.

Suggested Citation

  • Antonio Nicita & Massimiliamo Vatiro, 2008. "Incomplete Contracts, Property Rights and Endogenous Outside Options," Department of Economics University of Siena 545, Department of Economics, University of Siena.
    • Handle: RePEc:usi:wpaper:545
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    File URL: http://repec.deps.unisi.it/quaderni/545.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Antonio Nicita & Massimiliano Vatiero, 2009. "Incomplete Contracts, Irreversible Investments and Entry Deterrence," Department of Economics University of Siena 566, Department of Economics, University of Siena.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    outside options; property rights allocation; hold-up problem;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L12 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Monopoly; Monopolization Strategies
    • L22 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Firm Organization and Market Structure
    • L42 - Industrial Organization - - Antitrust Issues and Policies - - - Vertical Restraints; Resale Price Maintenance; Quantity Discounts

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