The chopstick auction: A study of the exposure problem in multi-unit auctions

B-Tier
Journal: International Journal of Industrial Organization
Year: 2009
Volume: 27
Issue: 2
Pages: 286-291

Score contribution per author:

0.402 = (α=2.01 / 5 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

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

Abstract

Multi-unit auctions are sometimes plagued by the so-called exposure problem. In this paper, we analyze a simple game called the "chopstick auction" in which bidders are confronted with the exposure problem. We do so both in theory and in a laboratory experiment. In theory, the chopstick auction has an efficient equilibrium and is revenue equivalent with the second-price sealed-bid auction in which the exposure problem is not present. In the experiment, however, we find that the chopstick auction is less efficient than the second-price sealed-bid auction and that it yields more [the same] revenue if bidders are inexperienced [experienced].

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:indorg:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:286-291
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
5
Added to Database
2026-01-25