This has just as much explanatory power: They're able to charge higher prices because individuals are saving less than ever, believe that rising costs are due t

This has just as much explanatory power: They're able to charge higher prices because individuals are saving less than ever, believe that rising costs are due to inflation and not corporate greed, and don't perceive it as price gouging but rather as a consequence of the current situation in 2023, including the global pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Additionally, we're witnessing an unparalleled level of consolidation across various industries, significantly reducing competition compared to previous years.