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Is Optimal Interlocking Cross‐Ownership for the Network Industry?

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  • Domenico Buccella
  • Luciano Fanti
  • Luca Gori

Abstract

Common wisdom suggests that noncontrolling, interlocking crossholdings is always profitable in a Cournot duopoly model. Therefore, the maximal profit is obtained by a reciprocal share of ownership of about 50%, which allows for the monopoly profit. By contrast, we analyze a network industry and show that crossholdings can be unprofitable under network effects and variable degree of product compatibility between firms. In particular, an optimal percentage value of crossholdings significantly less than 50%—or even 0%—always exist. Thus, we provide a new reason for unprofitable crossholdings. This result offers a policy warning to anti‐trust agencies.

Suggested Citation

  • Domenico Buccella & Luciano Fanti & Luca Gori, 2025. "Is Optimal Interlocking Cross‐Ownership for the Network Industry?," Managerial and Decision Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 46(6), pages 3520-3526, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:mgtdec:v:46:y:2025:i:6:p:3520-3526
    DOI: 10.1002/mde.4540
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    References listed on IDEAS

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