Blind Bidding

Blind bidding

Sunday, April 16, 2006

In telecommunications regulation, a way of conducting a multiple-round auction for spectrum in which participants know the bids but not the identities of other bidders. See also anonymous bidding.

The method the Federal Communications Commission will use in a June 29 auction for more than 1,100 wireless licenses that, by one estimate, could generate $15 billion for the Treasury.

According to game-theory experts consulted by the commission, a process that makes it more difficult for competitors to tacitly collude in their bidding by signaling their intentions with early-round bids.

According to most wireless companies and their industry association, an unnecessary and risky strategy that will make it harder for bidders to assess the motives and financial strength of competing bidders.

An issue on which Verizon broke ranks with others in the industry because of disenchantment with the outcome of past auctions.

The subject of a rare FCC victory for consumer groups.

-- S.P.

Copyright 2006 The Washington Post Company

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