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Markups in a Dual Labor Market: The Case of the Netherlands

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  • Gerrit Hugo van Heuvelen
  • Leon Bettendorf
  • Gerdien Meijerink

Abstract

We follow the production function approach to assess markups, which requires the estimation of the output elasticity of a free input. In the basic setup we estimate a structural value added production function, using temporary contract hours as free input. We find rather stable markups in the Netherlands in the period 2006-2016. We show that extending the free variable incorrectly with fixed contract hours results in an increasing markup. Findings are robust to an alternative setup, in which a gross output function is specified and materials are used as free input. Implications for applied work and policy are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Gerrit Hugo van Heuvelen & Leon Bettendorf & Gerdien Meijerink, 2020. "Markups in a Dual Labor Market: The Case of the Netherlands," EconPol Working Paper 44, ifo Institute - Leibniz Institute for Economic Research at the University of Munich.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:econwp:_44
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    Cited by:

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    2. Daan Freeman & Leon Bettendorf & Gerrit Hugo van Heuvelen & Gerdien Meijerink, 2024. "Business Dynamics and Productivity Growth in the Netherlands," CESifo Working Paper Series 11071, CESifo.
    3. Diane Coyle & John McHale & Ioannis Bournakis & Jen-Chung Mei, 2024. "Converging to Mediocrity: Trends in Firm-Level Markups in the United Kingdom 2008-2019," Working Papers 047, The Productivity Institute.
    4. Eric Bartelsman & Sabien Dobbelaere & Alessandro Zona Mattioli, 2024. "Non-Compete Agreements, Tacit Knowledge and Market Imperfections," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 24-055/V, Tinbergen Institute.
    5. Dolores Añón Higón & Ioannis Bournakis, 2024. "Participation in global value chains (GVCs) and markups: firm evidence from six European countries," International Economics and Economic Policy, Springer, vol. 21(2), pages 515-539, May.
    6. Mydland, Ørjan & Størdal, Ståle & Kumbhakar, Subal C. & Lien, Gudbrand, 2022. "Modeling markups and its determinants: The case of Norwegian industries and regions," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 76(C), pages 252-262.
    7. Casacuberta, Carlos & Gandelman, Néstor, 2023. "Wage councils, product markups and wage markdowns: Evidence from Uruguay," International Journal of Industrial Organization, Elsevier, vol. 87(C).
    8. Bartelsman, Eric & Dobbelaere, Sabien & Mattioli, Alessandro Zona, 2024. "Non-compete Agreements, Tacit Knowledge and Market Imperfections," IZA Discussion Papers 17260, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    9. Dolores Añon Higón & Ionnanis Bournakis, 2024. "Global Value Chains (GVCs) participation and Markups," Working Papers 2403, Department of Applied Economics II, Universidad de Valencia.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J30 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - General
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J41 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Particular Labor Markets - - - Labor Contracts
    • J62 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Job, Occupational and Intergenerational Mobility; Promotion

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