Influence of the Internet on the market for information

The commercialisation of the Internet raises many interesting economic questions of whether and how the whole economy will be changed. This thesis investigates the effect of cheaper technical distribution and better access to information systems and networks on information markets. Because investments are information sensitive, the market for financial information is used as an example and illustration of a market for information. A comparative static equilibrium analysis based on the Hotelling-model is given. Different information providers offer information that can differ in price and quality. The model also accounts for externalities, which are pivotal for many different information markets. (author's abstract)