Jan Eeckout: Jaume I Economics Prize – Market Concentration Impact
Jan Eeckhout’s groundbreaking work on market concentration earns him the prestigious rei Jaume I Economics Prize. This award celebrates Eeckhout’s deep analysis of how powerful business concentrations reshape the economy, impacting everything from wages to overall economic health. His research, highlighted in his book, _The Profit Paradox_, reveals the disconnect between rising corporate profits adn stagnant worker pay. The jury lauded his contributions to economic growth and his analysis of market power, among other fields. Also recognized was Damià Tormo, who received the Business Revelation award for his contributions in the pharmaceutical sector.News Directory 3 notes how the Rei Jaume I Awards continue to champion outstanding contributions. Curious about the future of economic research and the impact of these awards? Discover what’s next.
Jan Eeckhout Wins Rei Jaume I Economics Prize for Market Power Analysis
updated june 03, 2025
Jan Eeckhout, a Belgian economist and research professor at the Catalan Institution of Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA) at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) in Barcelona, has been awarded the Rei Jaume I of Economics prize. The award recognizes Eeckhout’s analysis of the effects of large business concentrations on the economy and measurement of market power.
javier Quesada, executive president of the Valencian Foundation Rei Jaume I Awards, noted that Eeckhout’s research demonstrates that increased business concentration worldwide since 1980 has had significant implications for macroeconomy and inequality.Eeckhout’s book, The Profit Paradox, examines how increased profits for large companies have not translated into higher wages for workers.
Eeckhout’s career includes positions at the University of Pennsylvania, Barcelona Graduate School of Economics, University College London, and Princeton University. His research focuses on the macroeconomic implications of market power,the labor market,and urban economics.
The jury also highlighted Eeckhout’s contributions to search theory, economic growth, game theory, and empirical industrial organization.
Business Revelation Award
Damià Tormo, a Valencian entrepreneur and biologist, received the Business revelation award for his work creating companies in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors and promoting Columbus Venture Partners, an investment vehicle for developing drugs and products to treat diseases.
The jury recognized Tormo’s ability to bridge research and society through company creation, enhancing job quality, attracting foreign investment, and positioning Spain as an international leader. His philanthropic work includes supporting treatment for children with rare diseases.
More Women Honored
Other winners of the 37th edition of the Rei Jaume I Awards include José Luis Mascareñas Cid (basic research), Nuria López Bigas (biomedical research), Silvia de San José Llongueras (clinical research and public health), Victoria Reyes garcia (environmental protection), and María Jesús Vicent Docón (new technologies).
This year,women comprised the majority of award recipients. The number of female candidates increased by 25% in 2025, representing over a third of the 226 applicants.
vicente Boluda, president of the Rei Jaume I Awards Foundation, emphasized the importance of investing in science and research and connecting them with the business world.
Carlos Mazón, president of the Generalitat Valenciana, presided over the event.
What’s next
The Rei Jaume I Awards are expected to continue recognizing outstanding contributions to science, research, and business, fostering innovation and progress in various fields.