Skip to content

We're more familiar with what economists call an English…

“We're more familiar with what economists call an English auction - prices start low and rise as people bid. However, there is also the Dutch auction, where prices start high and go lower until somebody bites. Movies are sold to the audience via a very slow Dutch auction, where each phase between…” quote by Nathan Myhrvold
Download Open image
“We're more familiar with what economists call an English auction - prices start low and rise as people bid. However, there is also the Dutch auction, where prices start high and go lower until somebody bites. Movies are sold to the audience via a very slow Dutch auction, where each phase between price drops can last weeks or months.”

Nathan Myhrvold

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

An English auction rises from low to high bids, while a Dutch auction starts high and drops until a buyer accepts; films use a prolonged Dutch format with long price‑reduction phases.

In simple terms: English rises up, Dutch falls down; movies use slow price drops.

Key Takeaway

Consider how pricing strategy affects buyer behavior.

Themes

economics pricing market dynamics film distribution

Mood

analytical strategic

Type

informative educational

When to use this quote

  • film release planning
  • ticket pricing
  • online sales
  • live events

Key Concepts

auction theory price elasticity consumer psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does a slow price drop influence audience urgency?
  • What are the risks of pricing too high initially?
A Different Perspective

Long Dutch auctions may delay revenue and deter early buyers.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Nathan Myhrvold

Explore all 134 Nathan Myhrvold quotes

More Auctions quotes

Browse all 84 Auctions quotes