What is the difference between a monopoly and a cartel?

A monopoly and a cartel are two economic terms that are commonly used to describe different types of business arrangements. Both terms are of particular relevance to antitrust law in Washington. A monopoly is an exclusive control over a certain market by one company. The company has no competitors and can manipulate the market by setting prices and controlling the supply and demand of a good or service. With a monopoly, there is usually little or no competition and the company is able to take advantage of the consumer by charging higher prices. A cartel, on the other hand, is when two or more companies have an agreement to collude and fix prices or output in order to limit competition and create a monopoly-like situation. Cartels are illegal in the US and are considered a violation of antitrust laws. The main difference between a monopoly and a cartel is that a monopoly is a single company that has total control over the market, while a cartel is an agreement between two or more companies to fix prices and control the supply and demand of a good or service. Monopolies can be harmful to the consumer, while cartels are considered illegal and carry heavy antitrust penalties.

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