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Partner Uncertainty and the Dynamic Boundary of the Firm

Author

Listed:
  • Thomas Hellmann
  • Veikko Thiele

Abstract

We develop a new theory of the dynamic boundary of the firm where asset owners may want to change partners ex post. We identify a fundamental trade-off between (i) a "displacement externality" under non-integration, where a partner leaves a relationship even though his benefit is worth less than the loss to the displaced partner, and (ii) a "retention externality" under integration, where a partner inefficiently retains the other. With more asset specificity, displacement externalities matter more and retention externalities less, so that integration becomes more attractive. Wealth can resolve ex post inefficient partner arrangements, but may weaken ex ante incentives for specific investments.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Hellmann & Veikko Thiele, 2017. "Partner Uncertainty and the Dynamic Boundary of the Firm," American Economic Journal: Microeconomics, American Economic Association, vol. 9(4), pages 277-302, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejmic:v:9:y:2017:i:4:p:277-302
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/mic.20160016
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    Cited by:

    1. Suting Hong & Konstantinos Serfes & Veikko Thiele, 2020. "Competition in the venture capital market and the success of startup companies: Theory and evidence," Journal of Economics & Management Strategy, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 29(4), pages 741-791, October.

    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D21 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Firm Behavior: Theory
    • D23 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Organizational Behavior; Transaction Costs; Property Rights
    • D25 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Intertemporal Firm Choice: Investment, Capacity, and Financing
    • D62 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Externalities
    • D86 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Economics of Contract Law
    • G31 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Capital Budgeting; Fixed Investment and Inventory Studies

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