Scalable Bayesian Estimation in the Multinomial Probit Model

Abstract

The multinomial probit (MNP) model is a popular tool for analyzing choice behavior as it allows for correlation between choice alternatives. Because current model specifications employ a full covariance matrix of the latent utilities for the choice alternatives, they are not scalable to a large number of choice alternatives. This article proposes a factor structure on the covariance matrix, which makes the model scalable to large choice sets. The main challenge in estimating this structure is that the model parameters require identifying restrictions. We identify the parameters by a trace-restriction on the covariance matrix, which is imposed through a reparameterization of the factor structure. We specify interpretable prior distributions on the model parameters and develop an MCMC sampler for parameter estimation. The proposed approach significantly improves performance in large choice sets relative to existing MNP specifications. Applications to purchase data show the economic importance of including a large number of choice alternatives in consumer choice analysis.

Keywords:

• Factor analysis
• Multinomial probit model
• Parameter identification
• Spherical coordinates

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank an editor, an associate editor, and two anonymous referees for very constructive comments. We would like to thank Gael M. Martin, David T. Frazier, Richard Paap, and Michael S. Smith for helpful discussions.

Notes

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