Gamma Pi

Applied Microeconomics | Industrial Organization: Who Benefits from Surge Pricing?

Date: Mar 26, 2021 at 10:00am to 11:10am
Abstract: In the last decade, new technologies have led to a boom in real-time pricing. I analyze the most salient example, surge pricing in ride hailing. Using data from Uber, I develop an empirical model of spatial equilibrium to measure the welfare effects of surge pricing. The model is composed of demand, supply, and a matching technology. It allows for temporal and spatial heterogeneity as well as randomness in supply and demand. I find that, relative to a counterfactual with uniform pricing, surge pricing increases total welfare by 1.59% of gross revenue. Welfare effects differ substantially across sides of the market: rider surplus increases by 5.25% of gross revenue, whereas driver surplus and plat- form profits decrease by 1.81% and 1.77% of gross revenue, respectively. Riders at all income levels benefit, while disparities in driver surplus are magnified. * To join the seminar, please contact at econ.events@umich.edu Please make sure to fill out the google form after completion of the event so we can register your completion and award your point!! https://forms.gle/TDrFij7XjKQpAR866