Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
We analyze the effect of firm heterogeneity on regional business cycle differentials. Using monthly firm-level data for Italy and estimating discrete-response models, we document sizeable and countercyclical differences in amplitude between the Northern and the Southern business cycles. We explore the role of sectoral mix and several firm-specific factors in explaining regional business cycle gaps. Results suggest that regional differences in sectoral composition are not responsible for these discrepancies, whereas firm-level heterogeneity explains 50% of the North–South gap. These results are robust to controlling for (i) firm fixed effects, (ii) spatial fixed effects and (iii) simultaneity bias.