Which companies are often considered legal monopolies?

Utilities companies, such as water and power providers, are often considered legal monopolies because they typically operate in regulated markets where competition is limited or deemed impractical. This is due to the high infrastructure costs associated with providing essential services like electricity, water, and gas. Establishing multiple providers in the same area can lead to inefficiencies, safety concerns, and the unnecessary duplication of resources. As a result, governments grant these utilities exclusive rights to operate within specific regions, allowing them to maintain a monopoly while being regulated by government agencies to ensure fair pricing and service quality for consumers. This regulatory framework helps balance the need for reliable services with consumer protection, making these utility companies unique in their monopoly status.