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The dynamics of the transfer and renewal of patents

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  • Carlos J. Serrano

Abstract

This article explores new data on the transfer and renewal of U.S. patents and interprets this new evidence using a model of patent transfers and renewal. We find that the proportion of transferred patents is large and differs across technology fields and especially type of patentees. We also find that the probability of a patent being traded depends on a number of factors—the age of the patent, the number of citations received by a given age, the patent generality, and whether the patent has been previously traded or not. These findings are consistent with the predictions of a model of patent transfers and renewals.

Suggested Citation

  • Carlos J. Serrano, 2010. "The dynamics of the transfer and renewal of patents," RAND Journal of Economics, RAND Corporation, vol. 41(4), pages 686-708, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:randje:v:41:y:2010:i:4:p:686-708
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1756-2171.2010.00117.x
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    JEL classification:

    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • L1 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance

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