This dissertation explores issues related to efficiency, how efficiently markets transmit information, of non-genetically modified (GM) soybean and conventional soybean futures markets at the Tokyo Grain Exchange (TGE). The first manuscript examines how efficiently non-GM and conventional...

The purpose of the present study was to determine willingness to pay for improved water quality and sanitation in four rural communities of El Salvador using the Contingent Valuation Method. The research was conducted between November 1998 and January 1999. Different regression estimates reveal...

The purpose of this study is to determine the likely impact of market interest rates on the choice of farm mortgages for the borrower. The study focuses on choice of mortgages with different rate repricing periods. The stochastic process of market interest rate movement is first estimated using...

Unilateral trade reforms and establishment of Mercosur led to increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) into Argentina. These inflows financed acquisition of new capital and/or renovation of existing plants, resulting in significant expansion in Argentina's capital stock and more rapid economic...

This dissertation examines the behavior of banks participating in the Farm Service Agency guaranteed loan program between the fiscal years of 1995 and 2003. Guaranteed loans are originated by banks but backed by the federal government. Borrowers must be creditworthy but unable to receive credit...

An extension of the real option valuation model to the case of co-integrated random variables was developed, using an error correction representation of randomness in output prices and input costs. Real option theory indicates that timing and risk considerations can generate value to an option...