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Concerns about rising prices may raise prices

Author

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  • Huck, Steffen
  • Normann, Hans-Theo
  • Petros, Fidel

Abstract

We use a laboratory experiment to investigate whether statements from a governmental institution expressing concerns about price increases trigger such increases by facilitating tacit collusion. Such statements on market conduct are disclosed after an exogenous and unexpected upward cost shock. The two potential channels affecting tacit collusion work through (i) a reduction of strategic uncertainty and (ii) an inducement of correlated beliefs. We find that issued statements of concern become a self-fulfilling prophecy, triggering price increases, and that a reduction in strategic uncertainty drives this adverse effect. Our results suggest that institutions should refrain from publishing such statements of concern

Suggested Citation

  • Huck, Steffen & Normann, Hans-Theo & Petros, Fidel, 2024. "Concerns about rising prices may raise prices," Discussion Papers, Research Unit: Market Behavior SP II 2024-203, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:wzbmbh:301157
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Fonseca, Miguel A. & Normann, Hans-Theo, 2012. "Explicit vs. tacit collusion—The impact of communication in oligopoly experiments," European Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 56(8), pages 1759-1772.
    2. Daniel Friedman & Ryan Oprea, 2012. "A Continuous Dilemma," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 102(1), pages 337-363, February.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    beliefs; coordination device; strategic uncertainty; tacit collusion;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • L41 - Industrial Organization - - Antitrust Issues and Policies - - - Monopolization; Horizontal Anticompetitive Practices

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