The aim of this article is to contribute to literature with new findings from biogenetics that are becoming increasingly important. In particular, we will discuss the new analytic frameworks that may open as a result of the incorporation of epigenetics in evolutionary economic thinking. This new approach is illustrated by studying the evolution of big Internet industry groups such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon and Samsung. With it we shed light on the dynamics of business groups, which we approach as ‘business ecosystems’.

We introduce the concept of Epigenetic Economic Dynamics, which is defined as the study of the epigenetic dynamics generated as a result of the adaptation of organisations to major changes in their respective environments.

First of all, this concept enables us to understand how the dynamics of the business groups mentioned address changes in their environments. Secondly, it is also useful when analysing the results of these dynamics. Abnormalities, malfunctions or obstacles to innovation, and/or blockage to developing competition at certain levels (i.e. intellectual property rights, abuse of monopoly power, etc.) may arise as a result of the influence of epigenetic dynamics. Acquisition of patent portfolios and patent lawsuits for infringements and violations are quite common, for example in the field of mobile telephony, which clearly shows the fierce competition between business groups. Essential patents licensing is particularly at the core of legal disputes between the business groups.