Targeted advertising leads to higher prices and lower consumer welfare.
The article explores how targeted advertising with price discrimination affects competition in a market with two firms. When firms use targeted ads, they can reach more customers and charge different prices based on preferences. The study shows that with targeted advertising, firms may choose to advertise more in their rival's market than their own. This strategy can lead to higher prices for consumers compared to mass advertising. In some cases, price discrimination through targeted advertising can benefit companies but harm consumer welfare.