The phrase "corners the market" refers to an individual or company gaining complete control over the supply of a particular product or commodity. The spelling of this phrase can be explained using IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription as /ˈkɔːnərz ðə ˈmɑːrkɪt/. The first sound in "corners" is a long 'o' (/ɔː/), followed by a silent 'e'. In "market", the 'ar' sound is pronounced as /ɑː/. The phrase is commonly used in business and investment contexts to describe a competitive advantage.
"Corners the market" is an idiomatic expression used in business and financial contexts to describe a situation where a certain individual or entity gains such dominant control over a particular product or commodity that they effectively become the sole provider or influencer in that market. This often results in limited competition and a significant advantage for the individual or entity holding the cornered position.
When someone "corners the market," they typically possess such a large share of the market's supply that they can dictate the pricing, availability, and distribution of the product or commodity, essentially monopolizing its availability. By controlling the market's supply, the individual or entity limits the entry of competitors and can manipulate market conditions to magnify their profits.
To achieve a cornered market, the party in control may employ various tactics including buying up the bulk of the supply, artificially inflating prices or creating shortages, or holding exclusive rights to a crucial resource. Corners in the market can happen in various industries, such as in the stock market, where a person or group acquires a significant amount of a particular stock, or in the commodities market, where someone gains dominance over a specific raw material.
However, cornering the market can be controversial and often raises concerns about fair competition and potential market manipulation. Therefore, regulatory bodies monitor such activities closely to ensure that market corners do not harm consumers or violate antitrust laws.