Capital Misallocation and Innovation

Abstract

This paper provides empirical evidence suggesting that misallocation of capital distorts competition and impedes innovation and productivity. Using a sample of Spanish firms over the 2010 to 2016 period, we document that industries with more severe misallocation of capital have both lower exit rates of low-type firms and lower entry rates of young and innovative firms. In these industries output declines and concentration increases. Consistent with negative effects associated with a reduction in competition on innovation, we find that capital misallocation depresses patent applications, particularly in high-tech sectors, and industries with neck-and-neck competition.