Keresztfinanszírozás

Keresztfinanszírozás, also known as cross-financing or cross-subsidization, is an economic strategy where profits generated from one product or service are used to subsidize or lower the price of another. This practice is common in various industries, allowing companies to maintain competitiveness in some markets while potentially recouping investments or offsetting losses in others.

In essence, a successful and profitable venture can absorb the costs or lower the price of a less profitable or new venture. This can be particularly useful for introducing new products or services to the market, as the existing profitable lines can cushion the initial financial strain. It can also be used to maintain market share in industries with tight margins or intense competition.

Examples of keresztfinanszírozás can be seen in telecommunications, where revenue from high-speed internet might subsidize basic phone services. In the software industry, hardware sales might subsidize the development and sale of accompanying software. Media companies might use advertising revenue from popular programs to fund less popular or niche content.

However, this strategy can also present challenges. If the profitable ventures falter, the ability to subsidize others diminishes, potentially leading to a domino effect. It requires careful financial planning and monitoring to ensure that the cross-subsidized products or services eventually become self-sustaining or continue to be supported without harming the core business. Regulators may also scrutinize keresztfinanszírozás to prevent anti-competitive practices.