Tax-induced multiple equilibria

Abstract

In this article, we present examples of tax-distorted general equilibrium economies in which equilibria are unique in the absence of taxes, but taxes generate multiplicity when introduced over a range of tax rates. We also provide converse examples of economies with multiple no-tax equilibria, but where taxes when introduced induce uniqueness. Both Foster and Sonnenschein (1970) and Kehoe (1985) discussed the possibility of tax-induced multiplicity. Here, we show how in 2-individual 2-good pure exchange economies with Constant Elasticity of Substitution/Linear Expenditure System (CES/LES) preferences such cases can occur. We also provide ranges of consumption tax rates over which these cases can occur for alternative parameterizations.