Alternatives Quote by Peter Gallagher
“A competitive threat is not the same thing as an antitrust violation… It is difficult to make out FairSearch’s precise antitrust arguments. There are alternatives to ITA’s software: both the GDSs but also upstarts such as the U.K.’s Everbread Ltd., which has relationships with 60 low-cost carriers, and Vayant Travel Technologies LLC of New York. It isn’t clear, therefore, that competition would be reduced even if Googled didn’t honor ITA’s contracts with other travel companies.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional Hearing on Antitrust Issues, 2023
A competitive threat differs from a legal antitrust violation; competition may persist despite contractual disputes.
In simple terms: Threats aren't always illegal violations.
Distinguish market competition from legal breaches.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- contract negotiations
- industry competition
- policy making
- legal strategy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we differentiate legitimate competition from antitrust violations?
- What evidence proves a threat is illegal?
Legal standards are higher than market concerns; not all competition is unlawful.