Chapter 15 Oligopoly

Microeconomics

12 cards   |   Total Attempts: 188
  

Cards In This Set

Front Back
Oligopolymarket structure in which:
Natural or legal barriers prevent the entry of new firmssmall number of firms competeeither natural or legal barriers to entry can create oligopoly
Why does an oligopoly have a small number of firms?
-the firms are interdependent and face a temptation to cooperate
Interdependence 
With a small number of firms, each firm's profit depends on every firm's actions
Cartel
An illegal group of firms acting together to limit output, raise price, and increase profit
Kinked Demand CurveFirms believe:
-if it raises its price, competitors will not follow-if it lowers its price all its competitors will follow-below kink demand is inelastic 
Collusive Agreement
An agreement between 2 or more producers to form a cartel to restrict output, raise the price, and increase profits
Contestable Market
A market in which firms can enter and leave so easily that firms in the market face competition from potential entrants
Limit Pricing
Sets the price at the highest level that inflicts a loss on the entrant
Anti Trust law
The law that regulates oligopolies and prevents them from becoming monopolies or behaving like monopolies
Resale price maintenance
Occurs when a manufacturer agrees with a distributor on the price at which the product will be resold
Tying Arrangement
An agreement to sell one product only if the buyer agrees to buy another different product
Predatory Pricing
Setting a low price to drive competitors out of business with the intention of setting a monopoly price when the competition has gone