This paper tests for reference dependence, using data from Impressionist and Contemporary Art auctions. We distinguish reference dependence based on ‘rule of thumb’ learning from reference dependence based on ‘rational’ learning. Furthermore, we distinguish pure reference dependence from...

This paper presents an empirical study of paintings that have failed to meet their reserve price at auction. In the art trade it is often claimed that when an advertised item goes unsold at auction, its future value will be affected. We have constructed a new dataset specifically for the purpose...

We analyse an infinite-period model of duopolistic competition in a market with consumer switching costs, in which in every period new consumers arrive and a fraction of old consumers leaves. We show that prices (and profits) are higher than in a market without switching costs, and that this...