University of Twente Student Theses
The future of platform dominancy : Research on the effects and handling of platform power
Winters, L. (2025) The future of platform dominancy : Research on the effects and handling of platform power.
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| Abstract: | The increased dominance of digital platforms has created multiple concerns among policymakers and experts. These concerns regard the increasing power of digital platforms, the dangers of these platforms for user privacy, and the regulations not always being sufficient enough to contain this power. While prior research has already explored competition and power dynamics in the platform economy, little is known about the examination of power abuse and regulation that go with it. This study investigated the mechanisms through which platforms are able to establish and maintain market dominance, potential consequences of excessive platform power, and the effectiveness of current and possible future regulations to counter these platforms, through case study research on existing cases of platform power abuse, as well as expert interviews on the topic. The findings of the study show that platforms use network effects, monopolize on data, and pricing strategies to maintain a dominant position in the market, often at the cost of competition and consumer choice. Even though existing regulations, like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU try and counter this excessive platform power, there remain challenges in regulating the platforms properly. This study contributes to existing literature by identifying different patterns of power abuse and proposing new and different policies to ensure a fair competition in the digital market. The study provides valuable information for regulators, businesses, and consumers in the quickly evolving digital market. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/106021 |
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