Complex spatial organization in a simple model of resource allocation

A dynamical model for the distribution of resources among competing; agents : is: studied. The model is exactly solvable in tile case of global competi tion, which leads to the accumulation of all the resources by the agent wit h the highest performance. On the other hand, local competition allows for a wider resource distribution, with a much weaker correlation with individu al performances. Multiplicative processes give rise to almost-ordered spati al structures, through the enhancement of random fluctuations.