The paper puts forward the hypothesis that the transitory effects of trade liberalization on wage inequality can differ from the long-run outcome. In cases where the HOS theory predicts a decline in wage inequality in the long run, a temporary rise can, nevertheless, occur due to (i) the asymmetries in the speed of contraction in the import sector and expansion in other sectors, and (ii) the capital-skill complementarity in production. The asymmetric contraction and expansion causes a transitory capital accumulation that boosts the relative and the real wage of skilled labor due to capital-skill complementarity. Although the long-run HOS fundamentals are, therefore, dominated in the short run by the transient effects arising due to capital-skill complementarity, the observed rise in wage inequality is nonetheless consistent with the HOS theory appropriately extended to a dynamic setting.

openAccessArticle: FalsePage Range: 331-331doi: 10.1016/j.jedc.2011.08.012Harvest Date: 2016-01-12 15:11:37issueName:cover date: 2012-03-01pubType

We present the blueprints for a set of innovative reverse shooting algorithms that trap the global saddle path in systems with 2-4 state variables. The solution procedure is built around a new distance mapping and refined simplex algorithms. Since the algorithms are completely reliable and always work in the same way, we have been able to develop canned programs that solve for the global nonlinear saddle path in any model with 2-4 state variables. The programs are written in the spirit of plug and play: the user types in the equations of the model and then waits for the solution.

We examine the quantitative significance of financial frictions that reduce firms' access to credit in explaining asymmetric business cycles characterized by disproportionately severe downturns. Using rate spread data to calibrate the severity of these frictions, we successfully match several key features of U.S. data. Specifically, although output and consumption are relatively symmetric (with output being slightly more asymmetric), investment and hours worked display significant asymmetry over the business cycle. We also demonstrate that our financial frictions are capable of significantly amplifying adverse shocks during severe downturns. Although the data suggest that these frictions are only active occasionally, our results indicate that they are still a significant source of macroeconomic volatility over the business cycle.

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