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A note on the equilibrium of a monopoly providing a pure network good and the stand-alone effect: A reconsideration of the coordination problem

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  • Tsuyoshi Toshimitsu

    (School of Economics, Kwansei Gakuin University)

Abstract

In this note, we reconsider the coordination problem in the case of a monopoly providing a pure network good, such as telecommunications: a problem previously examined by Rohlfs (1974). As in Lambertini and Orsini (2004), we find that the coordination problem relating to critical mass is not associated with the presence of network effects but is more the property of consumer expectations. Assuming a pure network good and passive expectations, we demonstrate this from the perspective of Rohlfs (1974; 2001), i.e., the coordination problem is associated with critical mass and the role of a stand-alone effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Tsuyoshi Toshimitsu, 2022. "A note on the equilibrium of a monopoly providing a pure network good and the stand-alone effect: A reconsideration of the coordination problem," Discussion Paper Series 236, School of Economics, Kwansei Gakuin University.
    • Handle: RePEc:kgu:wpaper:236
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Caillaud, Bernard & Jullien, Bruno, 2003. "Chicken & Egg: Competition among Intermediation Service Providers," RAND Journal of Economics, The RAND Corporation, vol. 34(2), pages 309-328, Summer.
    2. Sjaak Hurkens & Ángel L. López, 2014. "Mobile Termination, Network Externalities and Consumer Expectations," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 124(579), pages 1005-1039, September.
    3. Amir, Rabah & Lazzati, Natalia, 2011. "Network effects, market structure and industry performance," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 146(6), pages 2389-2419.
    4. Jeffrey Rohlfs, 1974. "A Theory of Interdependent Demand for a Communications Service," Bell Journal of Economics, The RAND Corporation, vol. 5(1), pages 16-37, Spring.
    5. Katz, Michael L & Shapiro, Carl, 1985. "Network Externalities, Competition, and Compatibility," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 75(3), pages 424-440, June.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    pure network good; network effect; stand-alone value; critical mass; coordination problem; start-up problem; passive expectations; monopoly.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D42 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Monopoly
    • D62 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Externalities
    • L12 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Monopoly; Monopolization Strategies

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