| CAPS=lack of competitition in a majority of markets The reason that cable will be able to institute caps is that the deployment of FIOS is still limited and may be for quite a while. Yes, there are plans by some providers to build it out in more markets, but until the networks are actually deployed those plans can get derailed, especially in a weakening economy. For those of you fortunate to be living in a FIOS market now, count your lucky stars. The rest of us may not see it for a long time, if ever. In most markets, the only competition that cable ISPs have is slower DSL. In some markets, they may not have any competition. The American consumer has become complacent about price increases, in part due to the fact that credit has proliferated and people find it easier to pay more than complain (to companies and politicians) and take action--like boycotting. I do think this is wrong-headed timing. They will loose some customers whose budgets are being squeezed by inflation. The old saying, "You can't squeeze blood from a turnip." is true--American consumers are getting tapped out and those selling non-essential services should heed the impact inflation is having on the average American, who most certainly isn't earing a triple-digit salary. |
