Unique global solution of an integral-differential equation of Footloose Entrepreneur model in new economic geography

Abstract

This paper studies the Footloose Entrepreneur model in new economic geography in continuous space. In an appropriate function space, the model is formulated as an initial value problem for an infinite-dimensional ordinary differential equation. A unique global solution is constructed based on the Banach fixed point theorem. The stability of a homogeneous stationary solution is then investigated and numerical simulations of the asymptotic behavior of the solution are performed. Numerical solutions starting near the unstable homogeneous stationary solution converge to spike-shaped stationary solutions, and the number of spikes decreases with decreasing transport costs and strengthening preference for variety.