Vertical mergers with input substitution: Double marginalization, foreclosure and welfare

C-Tier
Journal: Economics Letters
Year: 2021
Volume: 202
Issue: C

Authors (2)

Moresi, Serge (not in RePEc) Schwartz, Marius (Georgetown University)

Score contribution per author:

0.503 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 0.5x C-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We consider differentiated duopolists that face symmetric linear demands and produce using Cobb–Douglas technologies with a monopolized input and a competitively supplied input. A merger between the input monopolist and either firm eliminates double marginalization but – unlike​ with fixed-proportions technologies – can lead to foreclosure and reduce welfare. The same can occur under a CES technology with greater input substitutability than Cobb–Douglas. With identical Cobb–Douglas technologies, the merged firm raises the rival’s cost by more, and the welfare effects are worse, when the input it controls constitutes a low rather than high share of input costs. With different technologies, the welfare effects can be non-monotonic in that input’s share of costs.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:ecolet:v:202:y:2021:i:c:s0165176521000951
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29