Which pattern is a red flag for collusion in bidding?

• A. Prices increase consistently as competition increases
• B. All bidders submit drastically different bid amounts
• C. The highest bid wins
• D. A rotational pattern to winning bidders

Answer: (D)

A rotational pattern where different bidders take turns winning signals collusion clearly. Bidders secretly agree to rotate the contract wins, presenting the appearance of competition while keeping profits stable for the group. This bid rotation undermines fair pricing and is illegal in many places because it eliminates true market competition.

Normal dynamics like more competition leading to higher prices, or bids that vary due to different cost structures, or a system where the highest bid wins, don’t by themselves indicate collusion. They reflect standard market processes or a different contract setup, not a deliberate agreement to fix outcomes.