What is a potential consequence of high barriers to entry in an industry?

High barriers to entry in an industry create an environment that makes it difficult for new companies to enter the market. These barriers can take various forms, such as significant capital requirements, stringent regulatory standards, economies of scale enjoyed by existing players, or strong brand loyalty that entrenched firms have established. When these obstacles are present, potential new entrants may find it unfeasible to invest the necessary resources or to compete effectively against established companies, leading to a lower likelihood of new firms starting in the industry. As a result, the existing companies face less threat from new competitors, ultimately influencing the overall dynamics of the market.

This environment can also affect innovation; while established companies may innovate to maintain their competitive edge, the lack of new entrants can lead to stagnation in certain cases, as innovation often thrives in competitive markets where multiple voices and ideas are vying for consumer attention. Therefore, reduced likelihood of new companies starting is a direct consequence of high barriers to entry in an industry.