Dynamics of Large Multinationals

Elhanan Helpman and Benjamin Niswonger

No 16579, CEPR Discussion Papers from C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers

Abstract: We develop a model of large multinational enterprises, each one producing a continuum of products. These outsized firms compete as oligopolists in a domestic and foreign market, facing competitive pressure from single-product firms that engage in monopolistic competition. The multinational enterprises invest in R&D in order to expand the span of their products and in foreign direct investment (FDI) in order to expand the range of products manufactured by their foreign affiliates. We study the dynamic evolution of these markets and characterize transition dynamics and steady states. In addition to the evolution of product spans, we characterize the evolution of prices, markups, market shares, and exports relative to subsidiary sales. Furthermore, we study comparative dynamics that result from changes in trade costs, R&D costs, the cost of FDI and productivity changes of the multinational firms.

Keywords: Multinational enterprise; Foreign affiliate; Foreign direct investment; Innovation; Firm dynamics; Product span (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D43 F12 F23 L11 L13 L25 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021-09
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Working Paper: Dynamics of Large Multinationals (2021)
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