The theoretical literature on pricing-to-market has identified two possible reasons why the elasticity of prices to exchange rate changes may be asymmetric across appreciations and depreciations. If firms are attempting to increase market shares in foreign markets subject to the possibility of trade restrictions, then more pricing-to-market may occur during appreciations of the exporter's currency. If firms face capacity constraints in their distribution networks, then pricing-to-market may be exaggerated during periods of depreciation of the exporters currency. This paper uses panel data on German and Japanese 7-digit industry exports to compare these competing explanations for asymmetries in pricing-to-market behavior. While the data seldom reject the null hypothesis of a symmetric response of prices to exchange rates, some industries, notably automobiles, provide empirical support for the market share model. Only a pooled regression with Japanese data supports the marketing bottlenecks model.

The role of information is central to the academic debate on finance. This book provides a detailed, current survey of theoretical research into the effect on stock prices of the distribution of information, comparing and contrasting major models. It examines theoretical models that explain bubbles, technical analysis, and herding behavior. It also provides rational explanations for stock market crashes. Analyzing the implications of asymmetries in information is crucial in this area. This book provides a useful survey for graduate students.

The dissertation consists of three empirical studies and takes a closer look at price fluctuations using German gasoline prices as an example for a homogenous good. It analyzes consumers’ reaction to price fluctuations and respectively the pricing behavior of firms. The first paper, which was developed with co-authorship, explores consumers’ online price search effects on the pricing behavior of firms (gasoline price level and price dispersion). As regulators have recently implemented a mechanism for reporting all price changes to a central data base, the core assumption of this price reporting scheme is that the increase in price transparency will lead to a decline in the price level and a reduction in price dispersion. The second study addresses the question whether German gas stations adjust their retail prices asymmetrically in response to crude oil price changes, i.e., whether gas stations react quicker to crude oil price increases than to crude oil price decreases. The third study aims to analyze whether consumers react more strongly to gasoline price increases or to price decreases when considering buying a new vehicle.

This collection of survey articles sheds light on crucial questions in the field of monetary, financial and macroeconomic policy. Applies rigorous economic theory and empirical analysis to important practical policy issues. Considers the role of the financial sector in economic development. Looks at why financial crises occur and how they can be avoided. Discusses the relationship between macroeconomic adjustment and poverty. Asks if low-inflation rate regimes are at risk from the ‘zero bound’ to nominal interest rates. Provides accessible overviews of recent research into these questions.