Rules of proof,courts, and incentives

We analyze the design of legal principles and procedures for court decision making in civil litigation. The objective is the provision of incentives for potential tort‐feasors to exert care when evidence is imperfect and may be distorted by the parties. Efficiency is consistent with courts adjudicating on the basis of the preponderance of evidence standard together with common law exclusionary rules. Inefficient equilibria may nevertheless also arise under these rules. Burden of proof guidelines are then useful as a coordination device. Alternatively, guidelines are unnecessary if courts are allowed a more active or inquisitorial role in contrast to that of passive adjudicator.     

On VIX futures in the rough Bergomi model

The rough Bergomi model introduced by Bayer et al. [Quant. Finance, 2015, 1–18] has been outperforming conventional Markovian stochastic volatility models by reproducing implied volatility smiles in a very realistic manner, in particular for short maturities. We investigate here the dynamics of the VIX and the forward variance curve generated by this model, and develop efficient pricing algorithms for VIX futures and options. We further analyse the validity of the rough Bergomi model to jointly describe the VIX and the SPX, and present a joint calibration algorithm based on the hybrid scheme by Bennedsen et al. [Finance Stoch., forthcoming].     

Stochastic Orderings of Convex-Type for Discrete Bivariate Risks

New classes of order relations for discrete bivariate random vectors are introduced that essentially compare the expectations of real functions of convex-type of the random vectors. For the actuarial context, attention is focused on the so-called increasing convex orderings between discrete bivariate risks. First, various characterizations and properties of these orderings are derived. Then, they are used for comparing two similar portfolios with dependent risks and for constructing bounds on several multilife insurance premiums.     

Dividend sensitivity to economic factors,stock valuation,and long-run risk

In this paper, we develop a theoretical stock valuation model that takes into account the long-run sensitivity of dividends to various economic factors. Our valuation process integrates the multidimensionality of uncertainty, as well as the long-run concept of risk (recently proposed in the literature). More precisely, we demonstrate that a stock’s long-run dividend growth is negatively related to its current dividend–price ratio and linearly related to N sensitivity coefficients, given by the long-run sensitivity between dividends and economic factors. Then, we show that the equilibrium price of a stock is a function of its current dividend, long-run dividend growth, and N risk parameters.     

Neyman type A distribution revisited

The modality structure of the Neyman type A distribution is examined. The results obtained add to those previously stated in Barton (1957) (or in Johnson et al. (1992, p. 370) ) and in Shenton and Bowman (1967) . Strong unimodality of this distribution is also considered. Problem 328 in Statistica Neerlandica ( Theodorescu (1997) ) and its solution ( Borwein (2000) ) play an important part.     

R&D personnel and human resource management in multinational companies: between homogenization and differentiation

This paper discusses the impact of globalization processes on models of R&D personnel management in multinational companies operating in Europe. Existing literature focuses on the globalization of R&D activity, on the one hand, and on national systems of innovation, on the other. By contrast, there are few studies of the linkage between the globalization of R&D and its impact on HRM. Drawing on the practices of multinationals in four sectors (pharmaceuticals, chemicals, computer hardware and software), the paper examines whether the hold of national differences in the area of HRM has been significantly weakened in the face of new models of competitiveness and management in multinationals. It focuses on two dimensions: recruitment and mobility. The studies highlight two major trends. The ‘internationalization’ of R&D clearly has effects on HRM models but not as great as might be expected. HRM policies such as recruitment and pay systems continue to be nationally based, reflecting legal and institutional differences. At the same time, in conjunction with new forms of R&D organization such as projects, the standardization of HRM tools may be observed. But this is partial and affects only a limited number of tools, notably individual evaluation.