Elsevier, Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics, (72), p. 78-85
DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2017.12.001
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The outcome distribution of a sum of n identical monetary lotteries (Sn=L1+L2+…+Ln) is described with a Markov model. A decision maker with the alternation bias believes in more negative autocorrelation between lotteries and perceives Sn as a less risky asset (lower variance) than a rational agent does. Also the expected utility of Sn for a risk averse (risk seeking) individual is higher (lower) if she is a believer in the alternation bias. This theoretical result can be applied to the analysis of decisions on repeated investments and turns to be a plausible explanation for Samuelson's fallacy of large numbers.