Complements and substitutes in sequential auctions: the case of water auctions

A-Tier
Journal: RAND Journal of Economics
Year: 2018
Volume: 49
Issue: 1
Pages: 87-127

Authors (2)

Javier D. Donna (University of Miami) José‐Antonio Espín‐Sánchez (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

2.018 = (α=2.02 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We use data on sequential water auctions to estimate demand when units are complements or substitutes. A sequential English auction model determines the estimating structural equations. When units are complements, one bidder wins all units by paying a high price for the first unit, thus deterring others from bidding on subsequent units. When units are substitutes, different bidders win the units with positive probability, paying prices similar in magnitude. We recover individual demand consistent with this stark pattern of outcomes and confirm it is not collusive but consistent with noncooperative behavior. Demand estimates are biased if one ignores these features.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:randje:v:49:y:2018:i:1:p:87-127
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25