← ireadpaper · 顶刊中的公共政策研究

算法定价

Pricing with Algorithms
AER: Insights · 2026 · Rohit Lamba、Sergey Zhuk

中文摘要

本文研究卖方选择算法的重复双寡头模型中的马尔可夫完美均衡。算法是从竞争对手的价格到自身价格的映射。一旦设定,算法便会迅速响应。顾客随机到达,卖方可以定期调整其算法。主要结果是:(i)对于具有标准利润函数的简单两价格模型,垄断定价是唯一的均衡结果;(ii)对于一般的有限价格网格,所有均衡结果都呈现超竞争定价。由于这种合谋不涉及任何直接沟通,其维系似乎不在现行反垄断法的规制范围之内。

Abstract

This paper studies Markov perfect equilibria in a repeated duopoly model where sellers choose algorithms. An algorithm is a mapping from the competitor's price to own price. Once set, the algorithms respond quickly. Customers arrive randomly and sellers can periodically revise their algorithms. The main results are that (i) for the simple two-price model with standard profit functions, monopoly pricing is the unique equilibrium outcome, and (ii) for general finite price grids, all equilibrium outcomes feature supra-competitive pricing. Sustenance of such collusion seems outside the scope of current antitrust laws for it does not involve any direct communication.
在 ireadpaper 查看全部 →