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Calling Circles: Network Competition with Non-Uniform Calling Patterns

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Listed:
  • Inderst, Roman
  • Valletti, Tommaso
  • Hoernig, Steffen

Abstract

We introduce a flexible model of telecommunications network competition with non-uniform calling patterns, which account for the fact that customers tend to make most calls to a small subset of people. Equilibrium call prices are distorted away from marginal cost, and competitive intensity is affected by the concentration of calling patterns. Contrary to previous predictions, jointly profit-maximizing access charges are set above termination cost in order to dampen competition, and the resulting on-net prices are below off-net prices, if calling patterns are sufficiently concentrated.

Suggested Citation

  • Inderst, Roman & Valletti, Tommaso & Hoernig, Steffen, 2010. "Calling Circles: Network Competition with Non-Uniform Calling Patterns," CEPR Discussion Papers 8114, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
  • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:8114
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Network competition; Non-uniform calling patterns; Termination charges;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L13 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Oligopoly and Other Imperfect Markets
    • L51 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - Economics of Regulation

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