Handboksinformation

Kursbeskrivning

This course presents a modern approach to the economic analysis
of competition policy with a particular European perspective. The
participants are expected to have some knowledge of elementary models
associated with the economics of strategy (game theory and oligopoly
models). The course will focus on the following issues:
- the definition of a relevant market,
-horizontal agreements, collusion and the enforcement of cartel laws,
-vertical agreements,
-concerted practices with a particular focus on the exchange of
information between competitors,
-evaluations of mergers,
-market dominance and business practices for the abuse of dominance,
-strategic creation of switching costs and loyalty-enhancing pricing
strategies
-price discrimination with a particular focus on history-based
pricing
-the relationship between competition policy and sector-specific
regulation.

The course will be closely linked to the contemporary legal framework
in Europe. The course will extensively present important European
competition cases and present an overview of the main methods used to
evaluate competition cases. The cases covered will include both
mergers and anti-competitive practices.

Lärandemål

After the course the students are able to conduct market analysis in recognition of the central constraints imposed by competition law. Students are very familiar with the central features of European competition law and its implementation from a theoretical as well as an empirical perspective.

Undervisningsspråk

English

Förkunskaper

Microeconomics an intermediate level, bachelor's thesis (or proseminar).

Undervisningstimmar

Lectures 30 h, Exercises, Cases 10h

Undervisningsformer

Lectures

Litteratur

Motta,M. (2004): Competition Policy: Theory and Practice. Cambridge University Press.

Bedömning och examination

Exam

Examinator

Stenbacka, Rune