On Network Competition and Solow Paradox: Evidence from the U.S. Banks

Abstract

In this paper we develop a model to examine the effect of information technology (IT) in the banking industry. IT can reduce operational cost and create network externality. Empirical studies, however, have shown inconsistency, the so-called Solow paradox, which we explain by stressing the heterogeneity in banking services. In a differentiated model, we characterize the conditions to identify these two effects and explain how the two seemingly positive effects turn negative. Using a panel data set of 68 US banks over 1986–2005, our results show that the profitability effect of IT spending is negative, reflecting a negative network competition effect in the banking industry.