The loss-averse newsvendor problem with quantity-oriented reference point under CVaR criterion

Abstract

<p style='text-indent:20px;'>This paper studies a single-period inventory problem with quantity-oriented reference point, where the newsvendor has loss-averse preferences and conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) measure is introduced to hedge against his risk. It is shown there exists a unique optimal order quantity maximizing the CVaR of utility. Moreover, it is decreasing in loss aversion level, confidence level and target unit profit, respectively. Then we establish the sufficient conditions under which the newsvendor's optimal order quantity may be larger than, equal to or less than the classical newsvendor solution. In particular, when the target unit profit is a convex combination of the maximum and minimum, the optimal order quantity is independent of price and cost parameters. Numerical experiments are conducted to illustrate our results and present some managerial insights.</p>