Deregulation

Deregulation is an act by which the government regulation of a particular industry is reduced or eliminated in order to create and foster a more efficient marketplace. Deregulation is usually enacted to weaken government influence and forge greater competition. By this token, deregulation also creates an economic environment favorable to upstart companies that were unable to enter the industry prior to the passing of deregulation. It is also widely held that deregulation often serves as a catalyst for increased innovation and mergers among weaker competitors. Deregulation is often driven by lobbyists and lobbying groups that represent various industries and business interests. Industries that have undergone deregulation include communications, banking, securities, transportation, as well as power and utility. Although deregulation might purge government influence all together, some government oversight usually remains.