Pushkara ME ALA4 - 20241027 - 115336 - 0000

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FACULTY OF MANAGEMENT

SUBJECT: MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS


BBA SEM-1 ALA 4 PROS AND CONS

TOPIC : PROS AND CONS OF


OLIGOPOLY
Complied by : Pushkara Ahuja

Enrollment No : 240508030001

Submitted to : Prof. Riya Shahi


An oligopoly is an industry which is dominated by a
few firms. In this market, there are a few firms which
sell homogeneous or differentiated products. Also,
as there are few sellers in the market, every seller
influences the behaviour of the other firms and
other firms influence it.

Examples
Some examples of oligopolistic markets in India include
automobiles, cement, steel, and aluminum. In the global
market, a few companies dominate mass media and
entertainment, including The Walt Disney Company,
ViacomCBS, and Comcast.

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1. Economies of Scale: Large firms can benefit from economies of scale, leading to
lower production costs. These savings can potentially be passed on to consumers in
the form of lower prices.

2. Innovation and Research & Development: Oligopolistic firms often have the
resources to invest in research and development. This can lead to product
improvements, technological advancements, and innovation within the industry.

3. Stable Prices: Since firms in an oligopoly tend to avoid price wars, the market often
experiences price stability. This can be beneficial for consumers who prefer
predictability in pricing.

4. Non-Price Competition: Oligopolistic firms may focus on factors like product quality,
branding, and customer service rather than competing solely on price. This can result
in a better overall consumer experience.

5. High Profits for Investment: The higher profit margins typically found in oligopolies
enable firms to reinvest in their operations, expand infrastructure, or explore new
markets, potentially fostering economic growth.

6. Barriers to Entry Protect Quality and Standards: High barriers to entry ensure that
only firms with substantial resources and capabilities can enter the market, potentially
maintaining high standards in terms of product quality and service.

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1. Higher Prices: With limited competition, firms in an oligopoly may have the power
to set higher prices compared to more competitive markets. This can result in higher
costs for consumers.

2. Reduced Consumer Choice: Since only a few firms dominate the market, the range
of products or services available may be limited. This lack of variety can restrict
consumer choice.

3. Barriers to Entry: Oligopolies often have significant barriers to entry, such as high
start-up costs or control over key resources, making it difficult for new firms to enter
the market and challenge existing companies.

4. . Inefficiency: Without the pressure of competition, firms in an oligopoly may not


be as motivated to operate efficiently, leading to higher production costs and lower
innovation.

5. Influence on Political and Economic Power: Large firms in oligopolistic markets can
have significant influence on regulatory policies and political decisions, potentially
leading to regulations that favor the firms rather than consumers or the public
interest.

6. Price Rigidity: Prices in oligopolistic markets tend to be more stable because firms
are hesitant to change prices out of fear of sparking a price war. This rigidity can
prevent prices from adjusting to reflect changes in supply and demand.

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