Merger Reviews in Digital Economies- Concerns and Way Forward

Abstract

In the era of digital economies where E-commerce is becoming the most important method of commercial activity, challenges for competition authorities are increasing. Many online markets are coming into existence which are multi-sided amplifying the buying and selling of goods or services online. Understanding dynamics of such platforms is must for applying competition tools to know whether there is a fair competition and whether proper tools are developed or used by authorities for competitive assessment of such platforms. The present research, firstly, aims to explore how merger reviews should be conducted and new factors, if any, should be considered in such reviews. Secondly, it discusses the issue of Big Data that eventually become a necessary strategic and economic asset. Thirdly, the concern about increased use of artificial intelligence and increase in takeovers of artificial intelligence start ups leading to prospective consolidation in the market is covered by the research.