Mobile Dev Memo Podcast Season 5, Episode 22: Economics and antitrust (with Brian Albrecht)
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May 27, 2025 Join Brian Albrecht, Chief Economist at the International Center for Law and Economics, as he unpacks the intriguing dynamics of antitrust law. He delves into how antitrust enforcement applies in the digital age, particularly regarding big tech and monopolistic practices. The conversation shifts to the transformative role of tariffs and their often underappreciated economic impact. Brian also explores the ongoing regulatory changes under FTC Chair Ferguson, offering insight into future antitrust strategies. Expect a thought-provoking discussion loaded with economic insights!
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Episode notes
Purpose of Antitrust Enforcement
- Antitrust laws aim to protect market competition to foster economic growth, lower prices, and benefit consumers and workers.
- The goal is not to punish bigness but to prevent monopoly abuses that harm competition and consumer welfare.
Monopolies Are Not Illegal
- Being a monopoly is not illegal; wrongdoing lies in abusing monopoly power to stifle competition.
- Winning the market on merit is legal; illegal actions include exclusive agreements that reinforce monopoly beyond merit.
Challenges of Tech Antitrust Cases
- Tech markets complicate traditional antitrust analysis because products are free and prices indirect.
- Harm is often measured by degradation of quality or competition, not explicit price increases.
