How Do Ad Blocking Programs Affect Competition?

Anton Sobolev
Profile Picture of - Anton Sobolev

Anton Sobolev

Abstract information

The use of ad blocking programs to avoid online advertising has become increasingly popular over recent years. In this video, ANTON SOBOLEV considers the strategic and welfare effects of ad blocking. Employing a theoretical model that establishes a network of key players to simulate the advertising and product markets, Sobolev finds that ad blockers’ impact varies according to the competitiveness of the market. Notably, in less competitive markets, ad blockers can have the effect of softening competition. The research provides new insights into ad blockers’ anti competitive effects and future research will explore in greater detail the ways in which advertisers and publishers have responded to the emergence of these tools.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101125

Researcher

Anton Sobolev is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Economics at the University of Mannheim. Having completed his PhD at the University of Vienna in 2018, he has also been a visiting researcher at the University of Oxford. Sobolev’s research focuses on industrial organization and digital economics. In 2015, Sobolev received a Young Economist Award from the Austrian Economic Association.

Institution information

University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

The University of Mannheim is frequently cited as the “Harvard of Germany,” primarily due to its world-class reputation in business administration and economics. Centered within the magnificent Mannheim Palace, one of the largest baroque buildings in Europe, the university provides a unique architectural setting for its academic pursuits. It is highly regarded for its research-driven curriculum and strong ties to the corporate sector, consistently ranking as the top German institution for social sciences and business. With a focused profile and a highly international outlook, it remains a premier destination for future leaders in finance, politics, and academia.
University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)
Cover Photo of - University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

Original Publication

Ad Blocking, Whitelisting, and Advertiser Competition

Citation

Anton Sobolev, 

Latest Thinking, 

How Do Ad Blocking Programs Affect Competition?, 

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101125

Credits:

© Anton Sobolev 

and Latest Thinking

This work is licensed under CC-BY 4.0