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The impact of regulating mobile termination rates and MNO–MVNO relationships on retail prices

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  • Cricelli, Livio
  • Grimaldi, Michele
  • Levialdi Ghiron, Nathan

Abstract

A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) provides mobile telecommunication services by eluding the constraints of the radio communication infrastructure and establishing an agreement with a hosting network operator (HNO) for the use of its spectrum. Thus, MVNOs offer a wide range of mobile services and directly compete with every mobile network operator (MNO). This paper studies the economic justifications for potential regulatory intervention that defines the level of mobile termination rates (MTRs) and negotiations and agreements among MVNOs and HNOs. The results show that symmetric MTR reduction leads to competition growth among operators, forcing every operator to reduce retail prices and, consequently, to enhancing consumer welfare. The paper also finds that a collaborative strategy adopted by an HNO and an MVNO is advantageous for both and induces a reduction in retail prices, thus weakening other MNOs.

Suggested Citation

  • Cricelli, Livio & Grimaldi, Michele & Levialdi Ghiron, Nathan, 2012. "The impact of regulating mobile termination rates and MNO–MVNO relationships on retail prices," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(1), pages 1-12.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:36:y:2012:i:1:p:1-12
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2011.11.013
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    Cited by:

    1. Erik BOHLIN & Kevin W. CAVES & Jeffrey A. EISENACH, 2014. "Mobile Wireless Performance in the EU and the US: Implications for Policy," Communications & Strategies, IDATE, Com&Strat dept., vol. 1(93), pages 35-58, 1st quart.
    2. Son, Pham Hai & Son, Le Hoang & Jha, Sudan & Kumar, Raghvendra & Chatterjee, Jyotir Moy, 2019. "Governing mobile Virtual Network Operators in developing countries," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 56(C), pages 169-180.

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