The Impact of the Potential Entry of Copycats: Entry Conditions, Consumer Welfare, and Social Welfare

The Impact of the Potential Entry of Copycats: Entry Conditions, Consumer Welfare, and Social Welfare

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Article ID: iaor20173705
Volume: 48
Issue: 4
Start Page Number: 594
End Page Number: 624
Publication Date: Aug 2017
Journal: Decision Sciences
Authors: , ,
Keywords: management, investment, decision, simulation, game theory
Abstract:

This article examines the implications of the potential entry of a copycat who produces and sells a copycat (i.e., imitation) product that competes with the incumbent product. By analyzing a two‐period dynamic noncooperative game between these two firms, we identify conditions under which the copycat can gain successful market entry. More importantly, we find that the potential entry of a copycat creates (implicit) pressure for the incumbent to lower its selling price; hence, it improves consumer welfare. Finally, we identify conditions under which the potential entry of a copycat can increase social welfare (i.e., consumer welfare and the profit of both firms).

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