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The double marginalization problem of transfer pricing: Theory and experiment

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  • Lantz, Björn

Abstract

In this paper, we find that the idea of using optional two-part tariffs as a basis for tariff renegotiations in a bilaterally monopoly setting is a solution to the double marginalization problem that theoretically (1) creates a stable equilibrium, (2) at the overall efficient level, (3) without the presence of a central management. Through experimental testing, we find that the efficiency of this mechanism is significantly higher than the efficiency of simple direct negotiation, both under symmetrically and asymmetrically distributed information.

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  • Lantz, Björn, 2009. "The double marginalization problem of transfer pricing: Theory and experiment," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 196(2), pages 434-439, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ejores:v:196:y:2009:i:2:p:434-439
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    Cited by:

    1. Matsui, Kenji, 2011. "Intrafirm trade, arm's-length transfer pricing rule, and coordination failure," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 212(3), pages 570-582, August.
    2. Leonard F. S. Wang & Qiang Gong & Ji Sun, 2024. "Vertical cross‐ownership, double marginalization, and social welfare," Bulletin of Economic Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 76(2), pages 394-408, April.
    3. Kuang, Zhonghong & Lian, Zeng & Lien, Jaimie W. & Zheng, Jie, 2020. "Serial and parallel duopoly competition in multi-segment transportation routes," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 133(C).
    4. Mujawamariya, Gaudiose & Burger, Kees & D'Haese, Marijke F.C., 2012. "Behaviour and performance of traders in the gum arabic supply chain in Senegal: Investigating oligopsonistic myths," 2012 Conference, August 18-24, 2012, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil 126236, International Association of Agricultural Economists.
    5. Oliveira, Fernando S. & Ruiz, Carlos & Conejo, Antonio J., 2013. "Contract design and supply chain coordination in the electricity industry," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 227(3), pages 527-537.
    6. Simeng Wang & Yongsheng Cheng & Xiaoxian Zhang & Chenchen Zhu, 2020. "The Implications of Vertical Strategic Interaction on Green Technology Investment in a Supply Chain," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(18), pages 1-14, September.
    7. Changwen Li & Bin Cao & Yong-Wu Zhou & T. C. Edwin Cheng, 2023. "Pricing, coalition stability, and profit allocation in the pull assembly supply chains under competition," OR Spectrum: Quantitative Approaches in Management, Springer;Gesellschaft für Operations Research e.V., vol. 45(3), pages 977-1011, September.
    8. S. Zverovich, 2009. "The Transfer Pricing Problem with Non-Linearities," Papers 0903.3346, arXiv.org.
    9. Chen, Yuwen & Karamemis, Gulver & Zhang, Jiayuan, 2021. "A Win–Win strategy analysis for an original equipment manufacturer and a contract manufacturer in a competitive market," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 293(1), pages 177-189.
    10. Matsui, Kenji, 2014. "Gray-market trade with product information service in global supply chains," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 147(PB), pages 351-361.
    11. Adachi, Takanori & Ebina, Takeshi, 2014. "Double marginalization and cost pass-through: Weyl–Fabinger and Cowan meet Spengler and Bresnahan–Reiss," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 122(2), pages 170-175.

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    Keywords

    Pricing Transfer pricing Experiment;

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