The goals are to establish the facts of increasing firm differences in the US while providing some context through a summary of international comparative evidence; to understand the causes of these changes; to explore the macro-economic implications of the trends; and to provide a foundation for public policy discussions.

The project will focus primarily on empirical work. The research carried out in connection with this project will inform a range of key policy questions, including whether firm differences have contributed to increased market power and also rising income inequality, and whether there are policy levers -- anti-trust, other regulatory initiatives, trade policies, or others – that could affect these developments.

For more information, visit nber.org.