nep-ict 2013-02-03 papers

on Information and Communication Technologies

Issue of 2013‒02‒03
two papers chosen by
Walter Frisch
University Vienna

Google, Facebook, Amazon, eBay: Is the internet driving competition or market monopolization? By Haucap, Justus; Heimeshoff, Ulrich
Cable Regulation in the Internet Era By Crawford, Gregory S.

Google, Facebook, Amazon, eBay: Is the internet driving competition or market monopolization?

By:	Haucap, Justus; Heimeshoff, Ulrich
Abstract:	This paper discusses the general characteristics of online markets from a competition theory perspective and the implications for competition policy. Three important Internet markets are analyzed in more detail: search engines, online auction platforms, and social networks. Given the high level of market concentration and the development of competition over time, we use our theoretical insights to examine whether leading Internet platforms have non-temporary market power. Based on this analysis we answer the question whether any specific market regulation beyond general competition law rules is warranted in these three online markets. --
Keywords:	two-sided markets,online markets,digital economy,antitrust,e-commerce
JEL:	L12 L41 L81 L82 L86
Date:	2013
URL:	http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:dicedp:83&r=ict

Cable Regulation in the Internet Era

By:	Crawford, Gregory S.
Abstract:	The market for multi-channel video programming has undergone considerable change in the last 15 years. Direct-Broadcast Satellite service, spurred by 1999 legislation that leveled the playing field with cable television systems, has grown from 3% to 33% of the U.S. MVPD (cable, satellite, and telco video) market. Telephone operators have entered in some parts of the US and online video distributors are a growing source of television viewing. This chapter considers the merits of cable television regulation in light of these developments. It surveys the dismal empirical record on the e.ects of price regulation in cable and the more encouraging but incomplete evidence on the benefits of satellite and telco competition. It concludes with a consideration of four open issues in cable markets: horizontal concentration and vertical integration in the programming market, bundling by both cable systems and programmers, online video distribution, and temporary programming blackouts from failed carriage negotiations for both broadcast and cable programming. While the distribution market is clearly now more competitive, concerns in each of these areas remain. JEL classification: L50 ; L43 ; L41 ; L42
Date:	2013
URL:	http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wrk:warwec:1004&r=ict

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