Bertrand versus Cournot with convex variable costs

Within a simple model of homogeneous oligopoly, we show that the traditional ranking between Bertrand and Cournot equilibria may be reversed. For price setting entails a continuum of price equilibria under convex variable costs, departure from marginal cost pricing may be observed. As a consequence, Bertrand–Nash equilibrium profits (welfare) may be higher (lower) than Cournot–Nash ones. The reversal of the standard rankings occurs when pricing strategies mimic collusive behaviour.