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Difference Between Monopoly and Monopolistic Competition

Commerce

Difference Between Monopoly and Monopolistic Competition

Reviewed by:

Ridhi Sikri

Difference Between Monopoly and Monopolistic Competition with Examples

Introduction

Market, by its very nature, leads to the formation of both perfect and imperfect competition within it. Imperfect competition can be further categorized into oligopoly, monopoly, and monopolistic competition.

Let's find out more about monopoly and monopolistic competition!

What is a Monopoly?

Monopoly has such a type of market structure, where there is only one firm present in it. This firm enjoys absolute power in producing and selling the product or service. Products offered in a monopoly market do not have any close substitutes.

Monopoly is most likely to be found in the public utility sector.

Also, the combined effect of various characteristics of the monopoly market ensures that the market player is a sole price setter. Buyers cannot influence prices. Price is set by the firm taking into account the demand elasticity of a product, product demand, and maximization of profit.

Example of Monopoly

An instance of monopoly competition can be found in the government sector. Government has a monopoly over infrastructure such as dams, railways etc.

These sectors count as a monopoly market with the government as the only entity because the competition is non-existent. The characteristics of the services and products in such a market are determined by the government.

What is Monopolistic Competition?

Monopolistic competition is the market setting that includes differentiated products offered by a handful of sellers present in the market. Product differentiation is undertaken through packaging, brand name, trademark etc.

Monopolistic competition is evident in the manufacturing industry.

The characteristics of monopolistic competition such as differentiated products and a handful of sellers influence the prices of products or services. Consumers in a monopolistic market buy more products when prices are comparatively lower. Firms set product prices, taking into consideration marginal cost and revenue as well as profit maximization.

Example of Monopolistic Competition

Monopolistic competition can be seen on television programmes. With the advent of globalization, consumers have greater choice in the variety of shows from which to choose. The television programmes offered across the world are also diverse. However, there are only a few companies that broadcast those shows.

Major differences between monopoly and monopolistic competition have been discussed below.

Monopoly vs Monopolistic Competition

	Parameters	Monopoly	Monopolistic Competition
1.	Concept	A monopoly market does not involve any entity apart from a single seller and consumers. The market for the particular product or service is created by the firm, in the first instance.	A particular product is offered by a handful of entities in the market. The number of market players is less, and there is competition among those entities.
2.	Player	Monopoly is a single-player market.	Monopolistic competition is found in a market of a small number of players. There will be necessarily more than one entity.
3.	Competition	The seller in a monopoly market does not experience any competition.	Few players are present in a monopolistic market. There exists minimal competition among those players in that market.
4.	Demand and Supply	In a monopoly market, demand and supply are entirely calibrated by the firm. It is all the more likely that it is skewed in favour of that seller.	The firms do not exert control over demand and supply owing to the competition between market players.
5.	Entry and Exit	Given the nature of this market, both entry and exit are difficult.	On account of competition in a monopolistic market, entry and exit are relatively easier.
6.	Product price	The existence of a sole player in a monopoly market causes buyers to retain no control over product prices. The price quoted by the seller will have to be accepted by buyers.	Due to the presence of multiple entities in the market, buyers have the option of purchasing the product or service at a competitive price. This factor is taken into consideration when firms engage in the pricing of their product or service. Hence, due to the availability of options, buyers can influence the price.
7.	Product variety	Product variants are the sole discretion of a seller. There is no external factor that would cause it to consider extending the variety of products on offer.	Demand from buyers’ end usually leads market players to launch different varieties of a product on offer. It may also amount to be a differentiating factor from its competitors.
8.	Product predictability	Product predictability is high due to the presence of only one seller in a monopoly market.	More number of players in a monopolistic market makes product predictability low.

It can be understood that, in a monopoly market, the seller has the discretion to charge different prices to different sets of customers. It is known as price discrimination. However, in monopolistic competition, there exists non-price competition. Sellers in this market cannot adopt a price discrimination policy for their customers.

If you want to know more about different topics in the senior secondary commerce curriculum, you can refer to various online articles available on Vedantu’s platform. Do not forget to install the app on your device!

FAQs on Difference Between Monopoly and Monopolistic Competition

1. What is the Meaning of Monopoly?

Monopoly includes such a market structure that is characterized by the presence of a single seller. The product or service on offer is also unique. No competition is experienced by the seller as it is a sole entity in that market without any other close substitute.

2. Define Monopolistic Competition?

When a fewer number of firms are present in an industry, it is characterized by monopolistic competition. The services and products on offer are similar; however, those are not held to be perfect substitutes. The decision of one firm has less influence on the other.

3. Mention Key Differences Between Monopoly and Monopolistic Competition.

A monopoly market structure has a single-player operating in it. There are a few players present in a monopolistic market that results in competition. A single product is offered in a monopoly with no close substitute. However, there are substitutable products in a monopolistic one.

4. How to Revise Economics Concepts?

Economics is a subject that consists of various theories related to demand and supply, consumer behavior, saving function etc which are great topics as one would need them in practical life as well. This can be done effectively if planned daily with proper notes. At Vedantu, we provide students with adequate study material and notes which makes it not only easier but also interesting to the students and helps them grasp and retain the concepts for a longer period. To find notes, visit the Vedantu app or website.

5. Which Chapter of Economics is Tough?

Economics of class 12 is basic and very simple if learnt with proper guidance and practice. Economics is not a subject that can be memorized but indeed has to be analyzed with conceptual knowledge. Students due to improper or incomplete knowledge get confused in the subject that can be avoided with a proper study plan. The comparatively tougher topics would be in macroeconomics. You need not panic as Vedantu provides entire notes with keywords for better preparation.