What term describes obstacles that prevent new firms from entering a market dominated by a monopolist?

The term that describes obstacles that prevent new firms from entering a market dominated by a monopolist is "Barriers to Entry." This concept refers to various factors that hinder or discourage potential competitors from entering a market.

Barriers to entry can take many forms, including high startup costs, regulatory requirements, access to distribution channels, customer loyalty to existing brands, and economies of scale enjoyed by established firms. In a monopolistic market, these barriers serve to protect the monopolist’s market position and profits by making it difficult or impossible for new entrants to compete effectively.

Understanding barriers to entry is crucial in microeconomics as it helps explain why monopolies can exist and maintain their market power over time. Without these barriers, markets typically encourage competition, which benefits consumers through lower prices and increased choices.