3 6 Ke·2026-01-15 03:39Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving perception of internet platforms, particularly in relation to their pricing strategies and market dominance, highlighting a shift in regulatory focus from consumer harm to supplier exploitation [1][2]. Industry Analysis - The hotel sector's RevPAR is under pressure, while the airline sector has recently emerged from four years of cumulative losses; in contrast, leading OTAs have seen their net profit margins exceed 30% [2]. - The significant disparity in profit distribution along the industry chain suggests a recalibration of the delicate balance described in the "two-sided market" theory [2]. Theoretical Framework - The concept of "natural monopoly" is introduced, emphasizing that internet industries exhibit characteristics of natural monopolies due to their subadditivity, where fixed costs are high but marginal costs are low [3]. - The article references Peter Thiel's assertion that the goal of companies is to achieve monopoly status, which is essential for recovering initial investments through pricing power [3]. Pricing Strategies - Internet platforms utilize a pricing strategy that differs from traditional markets, often charging sellers above marginal costs while providing subsidies to buyers, exemplified by credit card companies like Visa [5][6]. - The pricing model in two-sided markets is influenced by the externalities generated by users on both sides, leading to asymmetric pricing strategies [5][6]. Market Dynamics - The initial phase of internet platforms (0-1 stage) involves attracting users through free services, necessitating significant upfront investment often supported by venture capital [7]. - As platforms mature (1-N stage), they leverage their market position to implement pricing strategies that exceed marginal costs, thereby internalizing market resources and reducing information usage costs [7]. Regulatory Considerations - The article suggests that the natural monopoly characteristics of internet platforms necessitate regulatory frameworks that differ from traditional approaches, advocating for public ownership or regulatory oversight in managing these monopolies [9].