Maurice E. Stucke Books

Ariel Ezrachi and Maurice Stucke critically examine the implications of app-assisted digital shopping. While online purchasing offers convenience, the algorithms and data analytics that facilitate this ease are reshaping market competition, often detrimentally. One concern is the potential for computers to collude; although traditional laws prohibit price-fixing, algorithms can swiftly monitor and adjust prices based on competitors, leading to increased price transparency that may ultimately harm consumers. Another issue is behavioral discrimination, where companies profile consumers to charge them the highest prices they are willing to pay. Additionally, the dominance of superplatforms creates a 'frenemy' dynamic with independent app developers, as these data-driven monopolies control essential platforms and dictate the flow of personal data, influencing who can access potential buyers. The authors pose critical questions about the relevance of the 'invisible hand' in markets manipulated by algorithms and bots. They explore whether competitive pricing is merely an illusion and if current laws can adequately protect consumers. The evolving market landscape is shifting power toward a select few, raising significant risks to competition, democratic ideals, and overall economic well-being.

Focusing on the impact of data-opolies, this book delves into their market dominance and the inadequacies of current solutions. It offers innovative strategies to enhance privacy while addressing the harmful competition stemming from behavioral advertising. The author emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to safeguard privacy and encourage healthy competition, especially when these aspects are at odds.

The first text to provide understanding of the important new issue of Big Data and how it relates to competition laws and policy, both in the EU and US.