Price Competition Research Articles

Evaluating the Impact of Mini-Competition on Pharmaceutical Procurement: Challenges, Risks, and Regulatory Implications in Indonesia

This study evaluates the impact of the mini-competition method in pharmaceutical procurement in Indonesia, focusing on its challenges, risks, and regulatory implications. Mini-competition, a procurement method designed to promote competitive pricing in e-purchasing, has been introduced to streamline the procurement process, especially for essential goods such as pharmaceuticals. However, this method faces legal and practical challenges, including risks of fraud, reduced competition, collusion, and issues concerning product quality and innovation. The legal framework governing mini competition, including Presidential Regulation No. 12 of 2021, is analyzed to identify potential weaknesses in ensuring transparency and accountability. The research also includes a case study of pharmaceutical product procurement, highlighting the significant price reductions resulting from mini competition but revealing adverse effects on industry sustainability. The analysis of the cost structure of pharmaceutical companies shows that continued price reductions may force companies to cease operations due to unprofitability. Drawing on international case studies, this study concludes that while mini competition can lower procurement costs, it also poses significant risks to product quality, innovation, and market competition. Traditional tender methods are proposed as a more balanced and sustainable approach for pharmaceutical procurement, emphasizing the need for transparent and comprehensive evaluation criteria.

Predicting smartphone prices using machine learning algorithms

This study investigates the prediction of smartphone prices using machine learning algorithms, motivated by the increasing demand for accurate pricing information in the highly competitive and rapidly evolving mobile phone market. With the proliferation of smartphones and the constant introduction of new models with varying specifications, it is crucial for consumers, retailers, and manufacturers to have a reliable method for estimating prices based on technical features. Accurate price prediction can assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions, retailers in setting competitive prices, and manufacturers in optimizing production costs and pricing strategies. Utilizing Decision Tree Regression, Support Vector Regression (SVR), Random Forest Regression and Convolution Neural Network (CNN), the research investigates the efficacy of these methods in estimating prices accurately. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is applied to reduce dimensionality and enhance model performance. Through rigorous experimentation and hyperparameter tuning, Random Forest Regression emerges as the most effective method, achieving the lowest Mean Squared Error (MSE) and the highest R-squared (R) score. The findings highlight the potential of ensemble learning techniques in addressing complex prediction tasks.

An integrated analysis of key financial metrics driving commercial bank performance in Cambodia

This study aims to systematically identify and analyze key financial metrics that influence the performance of commercial banks in Cambodia. Utilizing 2023 data from the National Bank of Cambodia across 59 banks, the research adopts an explanatory framework based on cross-sectional data analysis. Findings reveal a statistically significant positive correlation between Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) and Return on Assets (ROA), suggesting effective NPL risk management by Cambodian banks, contrary to traditional financial theory. Loan Growth (LG) does not significantly impact ROA, indicating that external factors like market conditions and loan quality are more critical. Furthermore, Market Share (MS) has no significant impact on ROA, suggesting that market share may not be a critical determinant of bank performance in Cambodia. A significant negative relationship is observed between the Loan to Deposit Ratio (LDR) and ROA, suggesting that higher LDRs expose banks to liquidity risks and reduced profitability. Both Loan Loss Provision (LLP) and Cost to Income Ratio (CIR) negatively affect ROA, while the Effective Tax Rate (ETR) shows a marginally positive relationship. The Net Interest Margin (NIM) significantly impacts ROA, underscoring the importance of managing interest-earning assets and liabilities. Recommendations include investing in advanced risk management frameworks, enhancing loan quality, maintaining a balanced LDR, utilizing technology for cost efficiency, focusing on effective tax planning, and optimizing NIM through competitive pricing. Future research should explore additional contextual factors that affect profitability dynamics in the Cambodian banking sector.. Keywords: Commercial Banks, Financial Metrics, Return on Assets (ROA), Non-Performing Loans (NPLs), Loan to Deposit Ratio (LDR), Cost to Income Ratio (CIR), Effective Tax Rate (ETR), Net Interest Margin (NIM), Loan Growth (LG), Market Share (MS).

Growth, biochemical indexes, and intestinal microbiota response of red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) under different densities and feeding frequencies in the land-based aquaculture tank

Red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) has been favored by farmers in recent years because of its superior growth performance and competitive market price, but there is a lack of experimental data related to growth and health of red tilapia in land-based aquaculture tanks. In this study, red tilapia (initial weight 27.62 ± 2.43 g) was cultured with three stocking densities (30, 40, or 50 fish/m3, named 30F,40F and 50F) in the culture mode for 60 days, including two feeding frequencies (2 or 3 times/day, named 2 T and 3 T), and various growth and metabolic parameters were assessed along with the intestinal microbiome analysis. The 30 fish/m3 groups achieved the better weigh gain rate and specific growth rate (p < 0.05). The growth rate and condition factor of 40F groups were close to those of 30F groups, the yield of 40F groups were not significantly different from that of 50F groups (p > 0.05), and it had the highest survival rate (p < 0.05). The 3 T groups has a higher growth rate and yield but also has a higher rate of feed conversion (p < 0.05). The 30F groups had higher lipase levels, but a higher fat content in this group, more lipids were observed in the liver, and resulted in higher blood glucose levels (p < 0.05). The 40F groups showed healthier physiological and biochemical indicators, as its total cholesterol, lysozyme and antioxidant enzymes levels were similar to those of the 30F groups (p > 0.05), alkaline phosphatase, amylase and trypsin levels were higher than those of the other groups, and aspartate transaminase levels were the lowest (p < 0.05). The 50F groups had higher cortisol, alanine transaminase and malondialdehyde levels, lower lysozyme and digestive enzyme activities, and blood cell infiltration in the liver (p < 0.05). In terms of different feeding frequencies, the 3 T groups had higher crude protein content, catalase and total superoxide dismutase levels, wider villus width and lower blood glucose level, while the 2 T groups had higher triglyceride, total cholesterol, lysozyme, alkaline phosphatase and some digestive enzymes activities (p < 0.05). From the perspective of intestinal microbiota. The 40F groups had a better intestinal flora, and 40F-3T groups observed a better balance of flora, while 40F-2T groups had more digestion-related flora. Considering the growth rate, health status, and yield, the optimum culture condition was determined to be stocking density of 40 fish/m3, and feedings 3 times/day were recommended. The experiment provided theoretical basis and experimental data for red tilapia culture in land-based aquaculture tank mode.

THE ROLE OF MARKETING STRATEGY ON PRICING AND ITS IMPACT ON PURCHASING INTEREST

This research aims to analyze and statistically test the role of marketing strategy on pricing and its impact on purchasing interest. This research was conducted at Cafe Covare Graha PPI using a survey method and analyzed using the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling method. The total sample was 196 respondents who were chosen randomly. The analysis results show that; 1) Marketing strategy significantly influences pricing, 2) Marketing strategy does not have a significant influence on service quality, 3) Marketing strategies do not have a significant influence on consumer buying interest, 4) Pricing has a significant influence on purchase interest. Competitive prices that align with the value perceived by consumers can significantly increase purchasing interest. 5) Service quality does not have a significant influence on purchasing interest, 6) Marketing strategy has a significant effect on purchasing interest through pricing. Good pricing can bridge the influence of marketing strategy on consumer buying interest. 7) Marketing strategy does not significantly affect buying interest through service quality. This indicates that service quality is not a strong mediating factor in the relationship between marketing strategy and purchase intention.

Directions and mechanisms of development of the common agrarian market of the Union State of Belarus and Russia

The article reveals trends in the development of food markets in Belarus and Russia, and features of the agricultural strategy. Proposals are presented for the development of mechanisms for the formation of a common agricul tural market of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, including measures of state regulation in the field of forecasting supply and demand (strategic indicative planning, infrastructure development), pricing (maintaining price parity and competitiveness), subsidies (application of uniform principles and criteria for increasing efficiency and competitiveness), investment policy (stimulating scientific and industrial cooperation, technology transfer), forming the basis for the functioning of market participants on the principles of voluntariness, economic feasibility and balance of interests.

Cation/Anion Doping Strategy for Na4MnV(PO4)3 with High Energy Density and Long Cycling Life through Construction by Aspergillus niger.

Na4MnV(PO4)3 (NMVP) has gained attention for its high redox potential, good cycling stability, and competitive price but suffers from poor intrinsic electronic conductivity and Jahn-Teller effect from Mn3+. In this work, cation/anion doping strategy was used for Aspergillus niger-bioderived carbon-coated NMVP (NMVP/AN) to improve the structural stability and electrochemical performance, where Al3+ doping inhibited the dissolution of Mn and enhanced the Mn3+/Mn2+ redox pair activity; besides, F- doping not only weakens the Na2-O bond but also endows the hierarchical and porous structure of NMVP/AN, which led to a more rapid and fluid transfer of Na+. The elaborately designed Na3.9Mn0.9Al0.1V(PO4)3/AN (NMAVP/AN) exhibits 105.9 mA h g-1 at 0.5 C, and the as-prepared Na3.1MnV(PO3.7F0.3)3/AN (NMVPF/AN) delivers 104.1 mA h g-1 at 5 C. Further demonstration of the hard carbon//NMAVP/AN full cell manifests the good potential of Al3+-doped NMVP/AN for practical applications (100.6 mA h g-1 at 1 C). These findings open up the possibility of unlocking the high-performance Na superionic conductor (NASICON).

Price, Marketing Communications and E-commerce Services on Consumer Purchase Intention in Online Shopping

General Background: The rise of technology and internet use has significantly influenced shopping behaviors in Indonesia, particularly with the growth of online shopping. Specific Background: Factors such as price, marketing communication, and e-commerce services are essential in shaping consumer purchasing decisions in this digital space. Knowledge Gap: Limited research has examined the combined impact of these variables on online purchase intentions. Aims: This study investigates the effects of price, marketing communication, and e-commerce services on consumer purchasing intentions. Results: Using a quantitative approach with 96 respondents, the analysis reveals that all independent variables significantly influence consumer purchase intentions in online shopping. Novelty: This research integrates multiple influencing factors into a single study, emphasizing their collective impact. Implications: Findings indicate that e-commerce platforms should focus on competitive pricing, effective marketing strategies, and quality services to enhance consumer purchase intentions, contributing to a thriving online retail environment. Highlights: Significant Influence: Price, marketing communication, and e-commerce services collectively impact consumer purchasing decisions in online shopping. Research Gap: This study fills the void by examining the combined effects of multiple factors on purchase intentions. Strategic Implications: E-commerce platforms should prioritize competitive pricing and effective marketing strategies to boost consumer engagement and sales. Keywords: Price, Marketing Communication, E-Commerce Services, Consumer Purchase Intention, Online Shopping

Unionised dockworkers and port ownership structure in an international oligopoly

In an international duopoly with two markets and two ports, this paper investigates the role of dockworkers unionisation in determining the endogenous choice by governments of port ownership structure. While private ports maximise profits, public ports maximise domestic welfare and face a budget constraint, which is binding when unions are sufficiently wage-oriented and shipping costs are not too high. State-owned ports appear as the most likely equilibrium result although all possible configurations may arise in equilibrium, including an asymmetric structure with a state-owned port and a private port. Country size asymmetry, product differentiation and price competition in product markets favour the rise of a joint public ownership structure of ports. This structure also maximises domestic welfare when unions are wage-oriented.

PERSEPSI PELAKU UMKM INDUSTRI FURNITURE DALAM MENINGKATKAN DAYA SAING USAHA DI ERA DIGITAL (Studi Kasus Pada Pelaku UMKM di Kota Tangerang Selatan)

This study aims to explore the perceptions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the furniture industry regarding enhancing business competitiveness in the digital era (a case study of SMEs in South Tangerang City). This research employs a qualitative method to gain in-depth understanding through data collection techniques including observation, documentation, and interviews, using a semi-structured interview format based on a predetermined interview guide with several informants from the furniture industry SMEs in South Tangerang City. The analysis of the interviews revealed that the strategies employed to improve competitiveness in the digital era focus on maintaining product quality, utilizing social media and e-commerce, and building good relationships with customers. Although some business actors have started using digital platforms, many still rely on traditional methods. Challenges such as price competition and the impact of political situations are also faced, but these are addressed through innovation, product differentiation, and strategic adaptation. While there have been efforts to leverage digital opportunities, there remains room for further development in the use of technology and more effective online marketing strategies.

Cross-border competition in the gasoline retail market: Impact of proximity at the German-Polish border

In this article, I analyze how persistently lower gasoline prices in Poland affect the prices set in the German border region. Based on a complete dataset of German gasoline prices and an assessment of driving distances between gasoline stations, I estimate the impact of one additional kilometer of distance to the nearest Polish competitor on the price charged by German gasoline stations. Following the fixed effects filtered estimator approach proposed by Pesaran and Zhou (2018) and controlling for various station characteristics, I find no evidence that German gasoline stations enter price competition with their Polish counterparts. My descriptive analysis of gasoline station infrastructure in the German border region reveals increasingly sparse gasoline station density when approaching the Polish border, along with an increasing share of premium brands. These results may reflect the effect of substantially lower taxes in Poland, discouraging German gasoline stations from locating near the border and effectively ruling out cross-border price competition. Although indirect, my findings suggest the presence of fuel tourism.

Algorithmic pricing: Effects on consumer trust and price search

With the widespread use of pricing algorithms in online markets, prices are increasingly fluctuating, contradicting consumers’ desire for price stability. This research examines the central form of algorithmic pricing in online markets—namely, algorithmic dynamic pricing (ADP). In five studies, including one real-world ADP encounter and four incentive-based experimental studies (in addition to two Web Appendix studies), we use price fairness and range–frequency theory to examine how ADP affects consumers’ trust in ADP retailers and the extent of their price search. The findings reveal that ADP reduces trust in the ADP retailer, though this effect diminishes after consumers become accustomed to ADP. Furthermore, ADP prolongs price search duration, which lengthens with consumer ADP experience and shortens as ADP becomes the market norm. These findings suggest that retailers can implement ADP, as consumer backlash can be short-term. ADP retailers can also actively build consumers’ trust and affect their search for prices through price-matching strategies. In particular, retailers can communicate their use of reactive ADP (i.e., ADP aligned with competitive prices) and offer price-matching guarantees

A methodology for preliminary benefit evaluation of Distributed Generation to drive private investments

Private investments in distributed generation (DG) are typically driven by the interests of private investor, often overlooking possible benefits for the distribution operator. This work presents a methodology that enables power distribution utilities to assess the potential for attracting investments in their networks, considering a regulatory framework where utilities could actively encourage private DG investors. The methodology involves calculating and integrating the benefits associated with investment deferral, losses reduction and reliability improvement into the energy price negotiated between the utility and the DG owner. The proposed approach was applied to an adapted test grid, considering real regulatory aspects related to technical losses and reliability. The results provide support for utilities to perform preliminary financial analyses to determine the appropriate incentives for private DG investors, identifying cases with competitive energy prices for generators. Key contributions of this methodology include a clear and reasonable metric for quantifying the capacity to attract investments based on standard utility data and the importance of incorporating regulatory aspects related to technical losses and reliability, that are often neglected in similar studies. Furthermore, the methodology not only promotes new opportunities for DG investors but also addresses challenges associated with network congestion.

Effect of Power Supply on the Socio-Economic Development of South East, Nigeria

The study examined the effect of power supply on the socio-economic development of South East, Nigeria. The research design utilized was descriptive research approach. The population of the study was 10,950,771. Data collected for the study were presented usingdescriptive statistics, The study revealed that Power supply does have a significant negative effect on cost of production in South East, Nigeria, (this is where the t-value is -796.442, and P-value is 0.00), that Power supply had a significant negative effect on job creation in South East, Nigeria (this is where t-value is -128.604, and P-value is 0.00) and that Power supply has a significant negative effect on job creation in South East, Nigeria (based on the t-value of -295.988, and P-value of 0.00). Major findings revealed that power supply significantly influences the economic development of South East Nigeria, several key implications arise. Reliable electricity is foundational for industrial productivity, influencing cost efficiencies and competitive market pricing. Conversely, frequent outages and reliance on costly alternatives like generators inflate operational expenses, hampering business growth and investment attractivenes. It is recommended among others to mitigate the impact of power supply on production costs in South East Nigeria, policymakers should prioritize infrastructure development. This includes enhancing grid reliability, promoting renewable energy sources, and subsidizing energy-efficient technologies.

Retailer-manufacturer partnerships in E-commerce: Dual product strategy and market share dynamics

A new practice among online retail platforms, e.g., Amazon and Wayfair, is to offer their own private label product and a substitutable exclusive manufacturer product. We employ a game theoretic approach to examine conditions under which a retailer and a manufacturer find it optimal to enter into such a partnership. Our analysis reveals that a retailer finds it profitable to partner with a manufacturer with one of two profiles. The first is a manufacturer with low unit production and holding costs and large capacity, and the retailer gives the manufacturer most of the market share. In this case, the retailer uses a low private product price and marketing effort to pressure the manufacturer to set a low exclusive product price, which increases the manufacturer's revenue and the retailer's fees. The second is a manufacturer with a large consumer base, high unit production and holding costs, and small capacity. For this profile, the retailer takes most of the market share by offering a low private product price, and the manufacturer is unable to counteract the retailer's low private product price and marketing effort. The partnership results in a lower price when the marketing effort is costly and the retailer relies on private product price, intensifying price competition. Under some conditions, the retailer's profit may decrease in his share of the manufacturer's revenue. Also, the retailer may increase the marketing effort and decrease the private product price, not to take market share, but to pressure the manufacturer to decrease price.

Analyzing the Impact of Service Delivery, Pricing, and Facilities on Customer Satisfaction at Big Mart: A Descriptive and Causal-Comparative Study

This study investigates customer satisfaction at Big Mart, focusing on service delivery, pricing, and facilities. Utilizing a descriptive and causal-comparative research design, data was collected from 125 customers in the Baluwatar area, employing a questionnaire and convenient sampling technique. The research explores the relationship between service delivery, pricing, facilities, and customer satisfaction. Descriptive statistics reveal average satisfaction with service delivery and pricing, but notable dissatisfaction with facilities. Correlation analysis indicates significant positive correlations between service delivery and pricing, while other facilities negatively affect satisfaction. Regression analysis shows that 28.6 percent of the variance in customer satisfaction is explained by the model, with price positively impacting satisfaction and other facilities having a significant negative effect. The findings suggest that enhancing facility quality and maintaining competitive pricing are crucial for improving overall customer satisfaction at Big Mart.

Market Penetration Strategy by Increasing Firm Competitiveness

To achieve successful market penetration, businesses must navigate complexities related to culture, legal frameworks, economic conditions, and competition. Businesses must decide whether to standardize their marketing strategies across different markets or adapt them to suit unique market characteristics. Competition is the ability to perform better, and faster. In facing competition, companies need to determine the right strategy, because in general companies are trying to survive, grow and develop. The purpose of the Market Penetration Strategy research by Increasing Company Competitiveness can include several aspects, namely, Assessing the company's strengths and weaknesses. Conducting market analysis to understand existing opportunities and challenges, including consumer preferences and behavior, and market trends and Developping an effective Market Penetration Strategy to increase market penetration, such as products, improving customer service, or competitive pricing strategies. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method to find out how PT. AJS Bumiputera markets its products, using market penetration to increase competitiveness, or to find out what the biggest challenges are in its market penetration strategy. This study uses a qualitative method as one of the methodologies in research that does not yet have a standard definition and is generally agreed upon for use. From the results of the study it is known that PT. Bumiputera Sharia Life Insurance, using market penetration through digital platforms such as social media, company websites, and online advertising campaigns to reach a wider audience. Organizing events, seminars, or workshops, related to finance or health. Providing education about the benefits of insurance products to the public, conducting direct promotions through telemarketing, or face-to-face marketing to introduce products directly.

A STUDY ON CONSUMER SATISFACTION TOWARDS ONLINE SHOPPING WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KALYANA KARNATAKA

This study examines consumer satisfaction in the context of online shopping, with a focus on Flipkart, one of India's leading e-commerce platforms. The research explores various factors that influence consumer satisfaction, including time-saving features, product variety, discounts, pricing, delivery speed, and the impact of social media on purchasing decisions. A sample of 150 respondents was surveyed using a structured questionnaire, with data analysed through statistical tools such as pie charts and tables. The results indicate that younger consumers, particularly those under 30, and female shoppers constitute the majority of online shoppers. Social media was identified as the most significant medium influencing purchasing behaviour, surpassing traditional channels such as television and newspapers. Key findings highlight the importance of fast delivery, competitive pricing, and a wide variety of product options in driving consumer satisfaction. The study also reveals that concerns about online payment security and return policies remain barriers to achieving full customer satisfaction. Based on the findings, the study suggests that e-commerce platforms can improve customer trust and loyalty by enhancing payment security, streamlining return policies, and leveraging social media for personalized marketing. The study concludes by emphasizing the role of consumer satisfaction in maintaining a competitive advantage in the growing online retail sector. KEYWORDS: Consumer satisfaction, online shopping, e-commerce, Flipkart, purchasing behaviour, product variety, discounts, social media influence, delivery speed, payment security, return policies, customer loyalty, demographic trends.

Evaluation of Lithium-ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles

Growing awareness of climate change concerns and the environmental impacts of fossil fuel vehicles has heightened interest in electric vehicles (EVs). Therefore, EVs represent a significant component of sustainable transportation solutions. Additionally, with advancements in battery technology, EVs now have longer ranges and are offered at more competitive prices. With their notable features such as high energy density, lightness, low maintenance requirement, and long life, lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) appear to be the most suitable battery option for EVs. Nevertheless, current LiB technology faces battery costs, energy storage capacity, charging times, and safety issues. In this context, it is clear that future research and development will focus on improving the efficiency of LiB technology and making these batteries more sustainable, reliable, and economical. This study aims to provide an evaluation of the LiBs used in the automotive sector by examining the historical development, basics of operational principles, various geometric types, cost evaluation, and their advantages and disadvantages. By covering these aspects, the study seeks to offer a comprehensive assessment of the LiBs employed in the automotive industry, spanning from their historical evolution to their presentday utilization. The study also intends to serve as a reference source for researchers planning to conduct studies on LiBs in EVs by providing fundamental concepts and evaluations related to these batteries.

Pengelolaan Cold Storage 1.000 Ton Di Muara Baru Jakarta: Perspektif Ekonomi Kelembagaan Baru

Fish cold storage was built by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in various regions as one of the implementations of the National Fish Logistics System policy, which aims to maintain the availability of fish for industrial raw materials and domestic consumption. The cold storage of 1,000 tons was established to become a role model for the government's buffer stock facility in the Jakarta area. However, its implementation is still experiencing obstacles because its use is not optimal and has not attracted the interest of fisheries players in the broader scope. The research objective is to examine the institutional system implemented in managing cold storage of 1,000 tons from a business perspective. The research uses a case study method in government cold storages located in Muara Baru, North Jakarta. The institutional analysis of cold storage management was analyzed descriptively and qualitatively using the New Institutional Economic Theory approach. The research results show that the institution of cold storage of 1,000 tons still needs to improve its management. The aspects that contribute most to the lack of business performance in cold storage are property rights and, flexibility and adaptability. The implications that can be given are institutional improvements through 1) developing business models that are more tailored to user needs, 2) establishing bodies or institutions that are more authoritative in public services, 3) aligning incentives and building cooperation with a wider range of users, 4) implementation of standard procedures balanced with commitment to compliance from stakeholders and strong controls, 5) increased speed and flexibility of services and 6) competitive pricing.