This book, first published in 1928, was written at a time when the tendency in industry was towards the formation of large combines. With competition growing as markets and methods of communication grew, many manufacturers considered their only option was to unite in self-defence, setting up a movement that restrictive legislation was unable to check. This book analyses the proper relations between monopolistic combines and the State, and was the first to examine the German experience of organised monopoly, and the means used to prevent it from becoming a mere protection for inefficient producers.