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Article
The Non-Existence of Equilibrium in Sequential Auctions When Bids Are Revealed
Information Systems and Analytics
  • Gangshu (George) Cai, Santa Clara University
  • Peter R. Wurman
  • Xiuli Chao
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2007
Publisher
College of Business - California State University Long Beach
Abstract

Sequential auctions of homogeneous objects are common in public and private marketplaces. Weber derived equilibrium results for what is now a classic model of sequential auctions. However, Weber’s results are derived in the context of two particular price quote assumptions. In this paper, we examine a model of sequential auctions based on online auctions, in which, after each auction, all bids are revealed. We show that a pure-strategic, symmetric equilibrium does not exist, regardless of whether the auctions are first- or second-price, if all bids are revealed at the end of each auction.

Citation Information
Cai, G., Wurman, P. R., & Chao, X. (2007). The non-existence of equilibrium in sequential auctions when bids are revealed. Journal of Electronic Commerce Research, 8(2), 141–157.