Scholarlink

<p>This study develops a non-linear model of patent depreciation that incorporates both knowledge diffusion and technological obsolescence, challenging the conventional assumption of a constant depreciation rate for intangible assets. Utilizing a comprehensive panel dataset of over 20 million patent-year observations, the analysis identifies distinct phases in the patent value lifecycle—initial appreciation driven by knowledge diffusion, followed by accelerating depreciation as patents age. The findings indicate that patent values typically peak around 6 years after issuance, with average annual depreciation rates ranging from 5 to 20%. Patent protection measures, such as granted status, are associated with a 3% reduction in depreciation, highlighting the role of legal safeguards in preserving asset value. Patents with stronger forward citation records depreciate more slowly, consistent with the idea that technologically more important inventions retain private value for longer. By allowing for heterogeneity across technology classes and explicitly modelling the non-linear depreciation path, the paper provides guidance for R&amp;D managers seeking to optimize intellectual property portfolios and offers policymakers evidence on how patent regimes shape the effective lifespan of innovative output.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Revisiting causes and rates of patent depreciation

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年1月23日

查看全文
  • Zhenyu Gong,
  • Gary H. Jefferson

摘要

This study develops a non-linear model of patent depreciation that incorporates both knowledge diffusion and technological obsolescence, challenging the conventional assumption of a constant depreciation rate for intangible assets. Utilizing a comprehensive panel dataset of over 20 million patent-year observations, the analysis identifies distinct phases in the patent value lifecycle—initial appreciation driven by knowledge diffusion, followed by accelerating depreciation as patents age. The findings indicate that patent values typically peak around 6 years after issuance, with average annual depreciation rates ranging from 5 to 20%. Patent protection measures, such as granted status, are associated with a 3% reduction in depreciation, highlighting the role of legal safeguards in preserving asset value. Patents with stronger forward citation records depreciate more slowly, consistent with the idea that technologically more important inventions retain private value for longer. By allowing for heterogeneity across technology classes and explicitly modelling the non-linear depreciation path, the paper provides guidance for R&D managers seeking to optimize intellectual property portfolios and offers policymakers evidence on how patent regimes shape the effective lifespan of innovative output.