A major U.S. regulatory push is targeting how leading airlines, ride-share services, and retailers set prices for the same products, with the Federal Trade Commission ordering nine major companies to disclose how algorithms and loyalty programs influence pricing. The inquiry follows allegations that consumers face varying costs based on their purchasing behavior while drivers receive differing pay rates tied to personal data. Critics argue these practices may violate fair competition rules, prompting scrutiny of whether pricing transparency is being undermined by automated systems. The move signals growing concern over whether digital pricing strategies are creating unequal treatment for customers and workers.
Regulator demands companies explain how and why they charge different prices for the same product or service The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is demanding some of the US’s biggest airlines, ride-share companies and retailers divulge how they are using algorithms and loyalty programs to target customers and drivers with different prices and wages.Nine companies – Delta, United, JetBlue, Lyft, Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, Target and Walmart – were named in the inquiry, which comes after investigations and lawsuits alleging consumers are charged different prices based on their buying histories and drivers paid different fares based on their personal histories. Continue reading...
