Managerial opportunism, us conveyancing and blockchain

Résumé

This thesis is structured in three chapters. In chapter 1, I address managerial opportunism towards workers. I present a theoretical model and test it. Results suggest that outside opportunities are key to hinder or stimulate managerial opportunism towards the workforce. In chapter 2, I study price-setting practices in the US title insurance industry. I test both the presence of a bilateral monopoly, insurers and lawyers, and the increase in the title insurers’ market concentration levels. Results suggest that the increased concentration led to an increase in prices. In chapter 3, I explore the application of blockchain technology to land property institutions. I develop an analytical framework acknowledging the customizable nature of blockchain and discuss diverse initiatives currently being developed in several countries. I conclude blockchain is bringing some changes but it has not been disruptive to existing systems.