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The use of spectrum auctions to attain multiple objectives: Policy implications

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  • Cave, Martin
  • Nicholls, Rob

Abstract

The first spectrum auctions generally assigned the chosen number of licences of predetermined size to the highest bidders, but auctions now allow a greater choice of outcomes, with bidders with existing spectrum portfolios competing, with others, for multiple lots, often in different bands. Modern auctions also contain design features expressly directed at efficiency and equity objectives. In relation to efficiency, spectrum caps or set asides for new entrants can be incorporated to combat the exercise of market power downstream. In relation to equity objectives, licence conditions may specify obligations to provide coverage in non-commercial areas, or promises of the attainment of social objectives can be given a weighting, with revenue, in the determination of winning bids. The paper provides and overview of the wide use of such tools and the consequences for the operation of the auction process. Some lessons are drawn for future spectrum auctions.

Suggested Citation

  • Cave, Martin & Nicholls, Rob, 2017. "The use of spectrum auctions to attain multiple objectives: Policy implications," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 41(5), pages 367-378.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:41:y:2017:i:5:p:367-378
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2016.12.010
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Goetzendorff, Andor & Bichler, Martin & Goeree, Jacob K., 2018. "Synergistic valuations and efficiency in spectrum auctions," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 42(1), pages 91-105.
    2. Sridhar, V. & Prasad, Rohit, 2021. "Analysis of spectrum pricing for commercial mobile services: A cross country study," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 45(9).
    3. Massaro, Maria & Beltrán, Fernando, 2020. "Will 5G lead to more spectrum sharing? Discussing recent developments of the LSA and the CBRS spectrum sharing frameworks," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 44(7).
    4. Kuś, Agnieszka & Massaro, Maria, 2022. "Analysing the C-Band spectrum auctions for 5G in Europe: Achieving efficiency and fair decisions in radio spectrum management," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 46(4).
    5. Oughton, Edward J. & Comini, Niccolò & Foster, Vivien & Hall, Jim W., 2022. "Policy choices can help keep 4G and 5G universal broadband affordable," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 176(C).
    6. Bauer, Johannes M. & Bohlin, Erik, 2022. "Regulation and innovation in 5G markets," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 46(4).
    7. Prado, Tiago S. & Bauer, Johannes M., 2021. "Improving broadband policy design using market data: A general framework and an application to Brazil," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 45(4).
    8. Escobar, Juan & Epstein, Rafael & Correa, Jose & Gidi, Pamela & Markovits, Jozsef & Epstein, Natalie & Montenegro, Yerko & Turkieltaub, Abner, 2023. "The 5G spectrum auction in Chile," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(7).

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