He decided to ask his classmate Sara about America's economic system as he was really unsure about what type of system we have. Another characteristic of a mixed economy is that there is an existence of dual system of pricing i.e. Certain industries will be in the public sector and certain … The following are the main characteristics of mixed economy: 1. Characteristics of Mixed Economy. Co-existence of the private and public sectors is the outstanding feature of mixed economy. Primary characteristics of a mixed economy tend to include traces of capitalism, which encourages businesses to create their own wealth, in addition to socialism. In mixed economy, both public sector as well as private sector industries will be functioning. Third, it is driven by the motivation of the self-interest of individuals. A mixed economy has three of the following characteristics of a market economy. Co-existence of the Private and Public Sectors. With socialism, the government has control over the amount of resources that are distributed and the manner in which those funds and efforts are directed. Second, it allows the free market and the laws of supply and demand to determine prices. In the private sector, prices of goods and services and factors of production are determined through the free play of market forces of demand and supply. First, it protects private property. Sara explained, ' prices are operated by both the price mechanism and the government directives. Yesterday in class, Sam was really struggling with his homework.