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Time-Consistently Undominated Policies

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  • Brendon, Charles
  • Ellison, Martin

Abstract

This paper proposes and characterises a new normative solution concept for Kydland and Prescott problems, allowing for a commitment device. A policy choice is dominated if either (a) an alternative exists that is superior to it in a time-consistent subdomain of the constraint set, or (b) an alternative exists that Pareto-dominates it over time. Policies may be time-consistently undominated where time-consistent optimality is not possible. We derive necessary and sufficient conditions for this to be true, and show that these are equivalent to a straightforward but significant change to the first-order conditions that apply under Ramsey policy. Time-consistently undominated policies are an order of magnitude simpler than Ramsey choice, whilst retaining normative appeal. This is illustrated across a range of examples.

Suggested Citation

  • Brendon, Charles & Ellison, Martin, 2018. "Time-Consistently Undominated Policies," CEPR Discussion Papers 12656, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:12656
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    2. Partha Pratim DUBE, 2020. "Least Possible Time to Reach Targeted Profit Function under Unitary Transformation," Romanian Journal of Economics, Institute of National Economy, vol. 50(1(59)), pages 05-15, June.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Time consistency; Undominated policy; Ramsey policy;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • E61 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Policy Objectives; Policy Designs and Consistency; Policy Coordination

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