Between 1986 and 1998 the De Beers Company Controlled the World

question 243

Multiple Choice

Between 1986 and 1998 the De Beers company controlled the world diamond market. De Beers and its affiliated association of producers restricted diamond sales to maximize profits. De Beers and its association was "the only game in town" and had what is

• A) a cartel.
• B) a duopoly.
• C) monopolistic competitor.
• D) perfect competitor.

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Definitions:

Perfect Competition

A theoretical market structure characterized by many buyers and sellers, homogenous products, and no barriers to entry or exit, leading to optimal distribution of resources.

Lose Customers

The consequence faced by a business when it fails to meet the needs or expectations of its consumers, leading to a decrease in its customer base.

Monopolistic Competition

A market structure characterized by many sellers offering differentiated products, leading to some degree of market power.

Average Total Cost

The total cost of production (fixed and variable costs combined) divided by the number of units produced.