Summary

Platforms like Meta, Apple, Amazon, Booking, and Alphabet dominate digital markets, with the value of their products and services increasing as more users join. However, their ability to leverage vast networks raises concerns about competition and regulation. This dissertation examines the economics of digital platforms through four academic studies, focusing on market dynamics, firm behavior, and regulatory interventions.

The first part studies the strategies platforms employ to suppress competition, particularly predatory pricing and self-preferencing. The second part explores regulatory responses, assessing whether interoperability—allowing users to connect across platforms—and the breakup of dominant platforms can effectively limit their market power.