In this paper, we examine how the introduction of network externalities impact an open and vertically integrated platform’s post-merger contractual relationship with third-party sellers distributing through its marketplace. Regardless of whether the platform uses linear contracts or two-part...

In this paper, we examine how the introduction of network externalities impact an open and vertically integrated platform’s post-merger contractual relationship with third-party sellers distributing through its marketplace. Regardless of whether the platform uses linear contracts or two-part...

Entrants often need to make considerable sunk investments whose returns are highlyuncertain. The option to exit the market if returns are low helps to reduce investment risksand can be an important impetus to investment. We examine the interaction between exitpolicy and up-front investment by...

We study the competitive effects of a vertical merger in a digital industry where an integrated incumbent (closed ecosystem) competes with an open ecosystem formed by an upstream supplier (ecosystem gatekeeper) and two downstream retailers selling differentiated products. Absent innovation, the...

This paper surveys the most recent contributions on the competitive effects of parity provisions in vertical industries. We explain that those effects depend on the scope of parity, the complexity of the vertical supply chain, the business model operated by sellers and distributors, and the...

We consider a three-level supply chain where a monopolistic seller distributes its product both directly through its own distribution channel and indirectly through platforms accessed by intermediaries competing for final consumers. In this setting, we examine the welfare effects of platform...