Discussion paper

DP6047 Genetic Tests and Intertemporal Screening in Competitive Insurance Markets

We consider successive generations of non-altruistic individuals carrying a good or bad gene. Daughters are more likely to carry their mother's gene than the opposite one. Competitive insurers can perform a genetic test revealing an agent's gene. They may condition their quotes on the agent's or on her ancestors' genetic status. In equilibrium generation one is bribed to take the test with an unconditional quote. The insurer uses this information to profitably screen a finite number of generations of their offspring. The offspring of good gene carriers subsidize the tested generation.

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Citation

Emons, W (2007), ‘DP6047 Genetic Tests and Intertemporal Screening in Competitive Insurance Markets‘, CEPR Discussion Paper No. 6047. CEPR Press, Paris & London. https://cepr.org/publications/dp6047