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A Leverage Theory of Tying in Two-Sided Markets with Nonnegative Price Constraints

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  • Jay Pil Choi
  • Doh-Shin Jeon

Abstract

Motivated by recent antitrust cases in markets with zero-pricing, we develop a leverage theory of tying in two-sided markets. In the presence of the nonnegative price constraint, the Chicago school critique of tie-ins fails to hold. In the independent products case, tying provides a mechanism to circumvent the constraint in the tied market without inviting aggressive responses by the rival firm. In the complementary products case, the "price squeeze" mechanism cannot be used to extract surplus from the more efficient rival firm without tying. We identify conditions under which tying in two-sided markets is profitable and explore its welfare implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Jay Pil Choi & Doh-Shin Jeon, 2021. "A Leverage Theory of Tying in Two-Sided Markets with Nonnegative Price Constraints," American Economic Journal: Microeconomics, American Economic Association, vol. 13(1), pages 283-337, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejmic:v:13:y:2021:i:1:p:283-337
    DOI: 10.1257/mic.20180234
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    JEL classification:

    • D42 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Monopoly
    • K21 - Law and Economics - - Regulation and Business Law - - - Antitrust Law
    • L12 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Monopoly; Monopolization Strategies
    • L41 - Industrial Organization - - Antitrust Issues and Policies - - - Monopolization; Horizontal Anticompetitive Practices

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