Monopooli

Monopooli is a term used in economics and policy discourse to describe a market condition in which a single firm or a small group of firms exercises substantial market power across a given industry or related markets. In common usage the concept is closely related to a monopoly, but monopooli is often employed to emphasize multi-market influence, strategic dominance, and the persistence of barriers to entry rather than the presence of a single entity alone.

Key features of monopooli include high barriers to entry, substantial control over prices, and the ability to influence product standards or access to essential inputs. Barriers may arise from economies of scale, control of key infrastructure, exclusive access to crucial technology, regulatory protections, or strong brand and network effects that deter new competitors. In some discussions, monopooli also encompasses platform-based power where a dominant platform connects buyers and sellers or users and content in a way that reinforces its central position across multiple markets.

Economic effects of monopooli are debated. Critics argue that sustained market power reduces consumer surplus, suppresses innovation, and leads to inefficiencies. Proponents may claim that large-scale operations can improve efficiency and spur innovations through investment in R&D. Policy responses typically involve competition or antitrust enforcement, merger control, price regulation in essential services, and measures to promote entry and contestability, such as unbundling, access-forcing rules, or fostering alternative platforms.

Examples cited in policy discussions include historical cases of integrated monopolies in natural resources, and contemporary concerns about platform dominance in digital services. Monopooli remains a focal point in debates over market regulation, competition policy, and the balance between scale advantages and competitive risks.