Algorithms and competition: the latest theory and evidence

Abstract

In the modern economy, algorithms influence many aspects of our lives, from how much we pay for groceries and what adverts we see, to the decisions taken by health professionals. As is true with all new technologies, algorithms bring new economic opportunities and make our lives easier, but they also bring new challenges. Indeed, many competition authorities have voiced their concerns that under certain circumstances algorithms may harm consumers, lead to exclusion of some competitors and may even enable firms (knowingly or otherwise) to avoid competitive pressure and collude. In this article, we explain how algorithms work and what potential benefits and harms they bring to competition.

The Use of Machine Learning Techniques and Distance Measures in Capturing Collusive Pricing: A Case Study for Algorithmic Pricing in E-Commerce Industry

“…Additionally, the use of algorithms in pricing decreases the search costs for consumers looking to purchase products or services (Descamps et. al.…”