JD vs. Alibaba: How Retailers and Marketplace Platforms Compete and Evolve in China (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Podcast 18)

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In this class, I talk about how online retailers like JD and marketplace platforms like Alibaba compete on different dimensions.

You can listen here or at iTunes, Google Podcasts and Himalaya.

Alibaba and marketplace platforms compete on:

  • Cost and / or difficulty of entry – including the chicken-and-egg problem and the cost of the logistics network.
  • Competitive advantages – including network effects (main one) and economies of scale in logistics, marketing and IT.

Early JD and online retailers compete on:

  • Cost and / or difficulty of entry – including the cost of the logistics network.
  • Competitive advantages – including supply cost advantages and economies of scale in logistics (mostly), marketing and IT
This is part of Learning Goals: Level 2, with a focus on:
  • #5 the Basics of JD

Concepts for this class:

  • Digital-Physical Hybrids
  • Competitive Advantage: Economies of Scale
  • Competitive Advantage: Network Effects
  • Digital Platforms: Marketplaces
  • Cost and Difficulty of Entry
  • Linked Businesses

Companies for this class:

  • JD
  • Alibaba

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I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Listen to My Podcast Here

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

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