ALTERNATING MONOPOLY AND TACIT COLLUSION*

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Industrial Economics
Year: 2010
Volume: 58
Issue: 2
Pages: 402-423

Authors (2)

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

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

Abstract

This paper considers the use of the alternating monopoly strategy (AMS) as a (tacit) collusion device. We show that firms may choose this strategy in particular environments, when other collusive strategies are also feasible. In particular, we stress how the presence of an observable move (entry), distinct from the competitive stage (price setting), can serve as a coordination device, reducing monitoring costs in incomplete information environments. The paper thus shows that AMS may be preferable to the classic market sharing strategy (MSS) and in some cases it is the only collusive equilibrium.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:jindec:v:58:y:2010:i:2:p:402-423
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-24