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Search costs in concentrated markets: An experimental analysis

Author

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  • Möllers, Claudia
  • Stühmeier, Torben
  • Wenzel, Tobias

Abstract

This paper experimentally studies the role of search cost in duopoly markets where sellers may be able to coordinate pricing decisions. We vary the level of search cost and whether sellers can communicate. While we find that consumers are more likely to invest in search when cost is reduced, we find that a reduction of search cost does not influence prices. This effect is not influenced by the availability of seller communication. Our results suggest that policy interventions that aim to increase the competitiveness of markets via reducing search cost may not be effective in concentrated markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Möllers, Claudia & Stühmeier, Torben & Wenzel, Tobias, 2016. "Search costs in concentrated markets: An experimental analysis," DICE Discussion Papers 233, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf Institute for Competition Economics (DICE).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:dicedp:233
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Irene Maria Buso & John Hey, 2021. "Why do consumers not switch? An experimental investigation of a search and switch model," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 91(4), pages 445-476, November.
    2. Céline Bonnet & Jan Philip Schain, 2020. "An Empirical Analysis Of Mergers: Efficiency Gains And Impact On Consumer Prices," Journal of Competition Law and Economics, Oxford University Press, vol. 16(1), pages 1-35.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Search; Collusion; Regulation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • K23 - Law and Economics - - Regulation and Business Law - - - Regulated Industries and Administrative Law
    • L13 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Oligopoly and Other Imperfect Markets
    • L51 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - Economics of Regulation

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