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Three Essays on the Internet Economy
Title
Three Essays on the Internet Economy
Creator
Sun, Yidan
Date
2024
Description
In an era of digital platforms, the integrity and visibility of consumer reviews, the dynamics of digital advertising markets, and the role of...
Show moreIn an era of digital platforms, the integrity and visibility of consumer reviews, the dynamics of digital advertising markets, and the role of software development kits (SDKs) emerge as pivotal elements shaping user experiences and platform economics. My research spans three distinct but interconnected domains: the impact of safety reviews on Airbnb, the effects of privacy protections on digital advertising markets, and the significance of SDK releases in the evolution of Apple's iOS app market. We find that critical reviews concerning the safety of an Airbnb listing's vicinity influence guest bookings negatively and, therefore, could boost platform revenues if such reviews were obscured, highlighting a misalignment between consumer interests and platform revenue objectives. This effect is more pronounced in low-income and minority neighborhoods, suggesting a nuanced impact on different community segments. In the digital advertising sector, we identify that data frictions disproportionately harm small publishers, especially when associated with smaller ad intermediaries, underscoring the vulnerability of niche players to market and regulatory changes. Lastly, our analysis of the iOS app market reveals the instrumental role of SDK releases in fostering the app ecosystem's growth, independent of the expanding iPhone user base. Together, these findings underscore the complex interplay between consumer feedback, technological advancements, and market dynamics in digital environments, urging a balanced approach that safeguards consumer interests while fostering innovation and equitable market practices.
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Three Essays on the Internet Economy
Title
Three Essays on the Internet Economy
Creator
Sun, Yidan
Date
2024
Description
In an era of digital platforms, the integrity and visibility of consumer reviews, the dynamics of digital advertising markets, and the role of...
Show moreIn an era of digital platforms, the integrity and visibility of consumer reviews, the dynamics of digital advertising markets, and the role of software development kits (SDKs) emerge as pivotal elements shaping user experiences and platform economics. My research spans three distinct but interconnected domains: the impact of safety reviews on Airbnb, the effects of privacy protections on digital advertising markets, and the significance of SDK releases in the evolution of Apple's iOS app market. We find that critical reviews concerning the safety of an Airbnb listing's vicinity influence guest bookings negatively and, therefore, could boost platform revenues if such reviews were obscured, highlighting a misalignment between consumer interests and platform revenue objectives. This effect is more pronounced in low-income and minority neighborhoods, suggesting a nuanced impact on different community segments. In the digital advertising sector, we identify that data frictions disproportionately harm small publishers, especially when associated with smaller ad intermediaries, underscoring the vulnerability of niche players to market and regulatory changes. Lastly, our analysis of the iOS app market reveals the instrumental role of SDK releases in fostering the app ecosystem's growth, independent of the expanding iPhone user base. Together, these findings underscore the complex interplay between consumer feedback, technological advancements, and market dynamics in digital environments, urging a balanced approach that safeguards consumer interests while fostering innovation and equitable market practices.
Show less