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Aggregate Consequences of Limited Contract Enforceability

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  • Cooley, Thomas
  • Marimon, Ramon
  • Quadrini, Vincenzo

Abstract

We study a general equilibrium model in which entrepreneurs finance investment with optimal financial contracts. Because of enforceability problems, contracts are constrained efficient. We show that limited enforceability amplifies the impact of technological innovations on aggregate output. More generally, we show that lower enforceability of contracts will be associated with greater aggregate volatility. A key assumption for this result is that defaulting entrepreneurs are not excluded from the market.

Suggested Citation

  • Cooley, Thomas & Marimon, Ramon & Quadrini, Vincenzo, 2004. "Aggregate Consequences of Limited Contract Enforceability," CEPR Discussion Papers 4173, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:4173
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    G00; Contract enforceability; Aggregate volatility; Amplification;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E30 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)

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