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Competition and Efficiency in Markets with Quality Uncertainty

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  • Muthoo, Abhinay
  • Mutuswami, Suresh

Abstract

This paper addresses the following question: Does competition enhance efficiency in markets with quality uncertainty? Using the mechanism design methodology, we characterize the maximal achievable level of efficiency in such markets, and then use this characterization to analyze how maximal efficiency varies with the degree of market competition. We show that the relationship between them is in general a non-trivial function of the main market parameters. In particular we show: (i) for some set of parameter values maximal efficiency is strictly increasing in the degree of market competition (although it never attains the first-best), but only until competition is sufficiently intense; thereafter, maximal efficiency is strictly decreasing in the degree of competition; (ii) for some set of parameter values maximal efficiency is strictly decreasing in the degree of market competition, attaining the first-best when there is no competition; and (iii) for some set of parameter values maximal efficiency is strictly increasing in the degree of market competition, attains the first-best once competition is sufficiently intense, and then remains at the first-best thereafter.

Suggested Citation

  • Muthoo, Abhinay & Mutuswami, Suresh, 2005. "Competition and Efficiency in Markets with Quality Uncertainty," Economics Discussion Papers 9981, University of Essex, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:esx:essedp:9981
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    Cited by:

    1. Adriani, Fabrizio & Deidda, Luca G., 2011. "Competition and the signaling role of prices," International Journal of Industrial Organization, Elsevier, vol. 29(4), pages 412-425, July.
    2. Abhinay Muthoo & Suresh Mutuswami, 2011. "Imperfect Competition and Efficiency in Lemons Markets," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 121(552), pages 580-594, May.
    3. Giuseppe, DE FEO & Jean, HINDRIKS, 2005. "Efficiency of Competition in Insurance Markets with Adverse Selection," Discussion Papers (ECON - Département des Sciences Economiques) 2005042, Université catholique de Louvain, Département des Sciences Economiques.

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