Benchmarked Estimators for a Small Area Mean Under a Onefold Nested Regression Model

In this paper, we modify small area estimators, based on the unit‐level model, so that they add up to reliable higher‐level estimates of population totals. These modifications result in benchmarked small area estimators. We consider two benchmarking procedures. One is based on augmenting the unit‐level model with a suitable variable. The other one uses the calibrated weights of the direct estimators that are reliable at the higher levels. These weights are used in estimators that are based on the aggregation of the unit‐level model for each small area. The mean squared error estimators of the proposed benchmarked estimators are obtained by suitably modifying those associated with the corresponding non benchmarked estimators. The properties of the estimators are evaluated via simulation.     

The Value‐relevance of Equity Accounted Carrying Amounts and Disclosed Fair Values of Listed Associates

Equity accounting is a controversial accounting treatment. Although fair value measurement represents a potential alternative measurement base, information content may be lost under a pure fair value measurement approach. This study investigates the value‐relevance of equity accounted carrying amounts and disclosed fair values of listed associates, using a sample of the largest firms listed in South Africa, Australia and the UK. The main finding is that the alternative measurement bases are incrementally value‐relevant during the sample period of 31 December 2005 to 31 December 2011, implying that equity investors do not blindly accept either measurement base. Rather, investors include their own assessment of the intrinsic value of an entity's listed associates in their valuations.     

The Clean Development Mechanism in a world carbon market

This paper discusses the role of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) in the market for carbon quotas and countries' commitments to reduce their carbon emission levels. We show that the CDM contributes to an efficient funding of clean technology investments in least developed countries. However, the CDM is not neutral on the global level of carbon emissions as it entices countries to raise their emission caps. The CDM may also make inappropriate the inclusion of any country that takes no emission abatement commitment. It can even make inefficient a country's decision to commit to an emission target. The implications of the presence of non‐additional projects are also analyzed.