Focus Antitrust - 10 October 2018

In The News

CMA publishes research on use of pricing algorithms

The CMA has published a study into pricing algorithms and whether they could be used to support breaches of competition law. The CMA has found that, whilst there is little evidence of companies using algorithms to show personalised prices, they are sometimes used to change the order in which products are shown to shoppers. The CMA has also found that algorithms can be used to help implement illegal price fixing and, under certain circumstances, could encourage the formation of cartels. However, the risk of algorithms colluding without human involvement is currently less clear. Click here.

CMA launches market study of audit sector

The CMA has launched a market study of the audit sector to examine whether it is working well for the economy and investors. As part of its review, the CMA will investigate whether the sector is competitive and resilient enough to maintain high quality standards. Click here.

EU

Mergers

•  The European Commission has approved the proposed acquisition of Com Hem by Tele2. Both companies provide telecommunications services in Sweden. The Commission concluded that the transaction would raise no competition concerns as the companies' activities and assets are largely complementary. Click here.

UK

CMA

• The CMA has issued its final report on the SSE/Npower merger, following a phase 2 investigation.   The CMA has cleared the merger, confirming its provisional findings in the case. Click here.    

For more information please contact Paul Stone on +44 (0)20 7203 5110 or at paul.stone@crsblaw.com.