Asymmetric Networks and Access Charges

In order to suggest an appropriate regulatory regime in the context of firm asymmetry, this study has developed a mathematical model that allows to elucidate comparisons of three different regulatory scenarios. In the unregulated market, the low-cost firm is more likely to become dominant in the market. Symmetric regulation has an immediate effect on off-net prices, which fall to the level of its marginal costs. Finally, asymmetric regulation is a highly effective way of promoting market entry. Asymmetric regulation can generate higher social welfare.

Sequential Divestiture and Firm Asymmetry

Simple Cournot models of divestiture tend to generate incentives to divest which are too strong, predicting that firms will break up into an infinite number of divisions resulting in perfect competition. This paper shows that if the order of divestitures is endogenized, firms will always choose sequential, and hence very limited, divestitures. Divestitures favor the larger firm and the follower in a sequential game. Divestitures in which the larger firm is the follower generate greater industry profit and social welfare, but a smaller consumer surplus.