Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "profitless prosperity" and the implications of extreme price competition in various industries, highlighting the negative impact on profit margins and the overall economy [1][21][62]. Group 1: Price Competition and Its Effects - The article illustrates the extreme price competition in e-commerce, exemplified by products like T-shirts and umbrellas being sold at very low prices, raising questions about the profitability of such sales [4][5][20]. - It emphasizes that low profit margins lead to a situation where all participants in the supply chain are squeezed, resulting in a "supply chain squeeze" [9][10]. - The article argues that while consumers may benefit from low prices in the short term, the long-term consequences include reduced wages and potential business failures across the industry [22][25][62]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competition - The article contrasts the current competitive landscape with historical examples, noting that unlike the past, today's numerous competitors in industries like umbrella manufacturing cannot easily coordinate to stabilize prices [13][15]. - It discusses the concept of "Nash equilibrium" in pricing, where prices stabilize at a level that neither attracts new competitors nor drives existing businesses out of the market [31][32]. - The article points out that price wars can sometimes be strategic moves by larger companies to establish market dominance, but if they do not lead to monopolistic structures, they can harm the entire industry [33][38]. Group 3: Historical Context and Lessons - The article references the historical case of Texas Instruments and its pricing strategy, which initially led to market dominance but ultimately resulted in a price war that harmed the company and the industry [50][57]. - It highlights the importance of understanding competitor pricing and market dynamics, suggesting that companies should not solely focus on market share at the expense of profitability [59][60]. - The article concludes that a healthy industry should maintain reasonable profit margins while competing on other factors like product features and service quality [61][63].