The Following Simple Two-Country Question Illustrates How Countries Are Made

question 75

Essay

The following simple two-country question illustrates how countries are made better off by trade in assets. Imagine that there are two countries, Home and Foreign, and that residents of each own only one asset, domestic land yielding an annual harvest of kiwi fruit. Assume that the yield on the land is uncertain. Half the time, Home's land yields a harvest of 100 tons of kiwi fruit at the same time as Foreign's land yields a harvest of 50 tons. The other half of the time the outcomes are reversed. The Foreign's harvest is 100 tons, but the Home harvest is only 50.
-Suppose the two countries can trade shares in the ownership of their perspective assets. Further assume that a Home owner owns a 25 percent share in Foreign land. He will receive 25 percent share in Foreign land and thus receives 25 percent of the annual Foreign kiwi fruit harvest. Further assume also that a Foreign owner of a 25 percent share in Home land is permitted. In this case, a Foreigner is entitled to 25 percent of the Home harvest. Calculate the expected value of kiwi fruit for each investor.

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Definitions:

Deadweight Loss

The loss of economic efficiency that occurs when the equilibrium for a good or service is not achieved or is not achievable.

Profit-Maximizing

A strategy or approach aimed at achieving the highest possible profit from operations, often involving minimizing costs and maximizing revenues.

Negative Externality

A negative externality exists when a product or decision results in a negative effect on a third party not directly involved in the transaction.

Positive Externality

A benefit that affects someone who did not choose to incur that benefit, often associated with public goods or services.