Stochastic demands, fixed costs and time-varying Solow residual

In a general equilibrium model that contains the standard RBC model as a special case we provide a novel and yet very intuitive interpretation of the Solow residual. We argue in a simple framework with a micro-level uncertainty and fixed costs that movements in the measured value of the Solow residual can reflect endogenous evolution in the stock of knowledge on the status of individual market demands. We establish that transitory shocks can have persistent effects as they exacerbate informational imperfections. In addition, the Solow residual is shown to fluctuate even though the technological frontier is time invariant and factors are fully employed. Finally, we argue that movements in the measured value of the TFP can be caused by monetary disturbances.