The log it model is usually derived from a discrete choice approach with stoc hastic utilities. It is shown here that the logit demand system may also be derived from the maximization of a deterministic, entropy-type utility. The latter may be interpreted as the preference function of a...

This paper considers the relative efficiency of ad valorem and unit taxes in imperfectly competitive markets. We provide a simple proof that ad valorem taxes are welfare-superior to unit taxes in the short run when production costs are identical across firms. The proof covers differentiated...

We analyze the incidence of ad valorem and unit excise taxes in an oligopolistic industry with differentiated products and price-setting (Bertrand) firms. Both taxes may be passed on to consumers by more than 100 percent, and an increase in the tax rate can increase short run firm profits (and...