LFU:online

Students will be introduced to basic concepts of network economics and algorithmic market design and learn to assess the economic consequences of landmark business models for digital markets. Emphasis will be given to the design of search engines and exchange platforms, and the relationship between design, market power, efficiency, and justice in the digital economy.

The course provides an introduction to the economics of landmark business models in digital markets. A discussion of basic concepts of network economics and algorithmic market design will allow for a critical assessment of search engines and platforms for the exchange of commodities and (social) media content. A specific emphasis will be given to past, present, and potentially future policy responses to market power, innovativeness, and justice in digital markets.

The course will consist of lectures provided as podcasts and assignments with feedback during online-discussions (chats and live-sessions).

Regular take-home assignments.

Easley, D. and J. Kleinberg, Networks, Crowds, and Markets, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge 2010.

Belleflamme, P. and M. Peitz, The Economics of Platforms, Cambridge University Press,
forthcoming.

Both sources and further readings will be provided on OLaT.

The course is offered online and alternatively with a mix of online content and on-campus meetings. The format can be chosen by the students. Lectures will be provided as a podcast accompanied by a virtual OLaT chat. Assignments can be completed in small groups. Part of he assignments will be discussed with the tutor small groups (up to 3 students) in online or alternatively on-campus meetings while the other part of the assignment and the content of the lectures will be subject to on-campus and alternatively online meeting with the VO lecturer. The course is blocked in January and the timetable will be pusblished at the beginning of the term.

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Click here to see the course schedule: 432.065

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This course is provided within 432.065 VU Digital Markets (which also includes the course schedule).

The acceptance is based on prioritised randomisation. Active students of Complementary Subject Area Digital Science get precedence. 

Interested students of the complementary subject area Digital Science can also attend the SE Digital Markets (432.066). Note that the seminar content is not relevant for the VU Digital Markets exam.