We introduce a new nonparametric approach for estimating a simple varying coeffcient model with a unit root nonstationarity. Our method is based on a piecewise local least squares principle and is computationally simple to implement. We establish its asymptotic properties and evaluate its...

I develop a model of growth based on three assumptions: first, a variety of technologies characterised by different degrees of labour skill intensity, where technological change is localized; second, agents are boundedly rational, and the aggregate rule of motion of their behaviour follows a...

The last ten years have seen an upsurge in interest in the nexus of trade and environmental policies. In part this reflects the need to deal with major global pollution problems, and in part a concern that globalisation may have adverse impacts on the environment. Environmentalists worry that...

While regional disparities in the overall rate of participation in further education and training among young people are relatively small, marked differences persist in the pattern of investment across the regions. The proportion of young people continuing in full-time further education in the...

We address two concerns: trade liberalisation may lead to a race-to-the bottom in environmental standards; supra-national agencies, who might overcome this, may be captured by special interest groups. This raises two sets of choices: whether to set environmental policy at the national or...

The paper uses local linear regression to estimate the ``direct'' Average Derivative \delta = E(D[m(x)]), where m(x) is the regression function. The estimate of \delta is the weighted average of local slope estimates. We prove the asymptotic normality of the estimate under conditions which are...

When monetary policy announcements are expected to occur at scheduled dates, the event of an unscheduled announcement often "surprises" financial markets. However, if the information provider knows the future policy beforehand, he might be induced to anticipate the release of information without...

This paper constructs and estimates the demand for international tourism for the Italian Province of Sassari. The sample period under estimation is from 1972 to 1995. Three dynamic models are estimated at monthly, annual and quarterly data frequencies. Similarities and differences are explored...

Erev and Roth (1998) among others provide a comprehensive analysis of experimental evidence on learning in games, based on a stochastic model of learning that accounts for two main elements: the Law of Effect (positive reinforcement of actions that perform well) and the Power Law of Practice...