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A Spatial Model Of Cartel Stability: The Influence Of Production Cost Convexity

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  • Kai Andree
  • John S. Heywood
  • Mike Schwan
  • Zheng Wang

Abstract

We uniquely introduce convex production costs into a cartel model involving spatial price discrimination. We demonstrate that greater convexity improves cartel stability and that for sufficient convexity first best locations will be adopted. We show that allowing locations to vary over the game reduces cartel stability but that greater convexity continues to improve that stability. Moreover, when the degree of convexity does not support the first best collusive locations, other collusive locations exist that require less stability and these may either increase or decrease social welfare relative to competition. Critically, these locations that require less stability are more dispersed in sharp contrast to the known result assuming linear production costs.

Suggested Citation

  • Kai Andree & John S. Heywood & Mike Schwan & Zheng Wang, 2018. "A Spatial Model Of Cartel Stability: The Influence Of Production Cost Convexity," Bulletin of Economic Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 70(3), pages 298-311, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:buecrs:v:70:y:2018:i:3:p:298-311
    DOI: 10.1111/boer.12149
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Gabriel Courey, 2018. "Spatial price discrimination, sequential location and convex production costs," Letters in Spatial and Resource Sciences, Springer, vol. 11(2), pages 223-232, July.
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    5. John S. Heywood & Zheng Wang, 2020. "Profitable collusion on costs: a spatial model," Journal of Economics, Springer, vol. 131(3), pages 267-286, December.

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