FTC/DOJ inquiry escalates: HSR filings, new rules, state AGs, Paramount-WBD TRO, FTC AI accuracy policy, Epic probe, a16z probe, Apple-DOJ ruling, FTC deadlock
Key Questions
What is the status of the Paramount-WBD merger?
A judge granted a 14-day temporary restraining order pausing the merger, with a preliminary injunction hearing set for August 3. California AG Bonta is pushing structural remedies like separating news or streaming units.
How have HSR filings changed recently?
HSR filings surged to 235 in May 2026, with new rules adding over 60 hours per deal. The FTC issued a record $12M fine for an avoidance scheme by Edwards/Genesis.
What actions are state AGs taking on antitrust?
12 states led by California filed suit against the Paramount-WBD merger, including FCC bribery accusations. An Oxford Economics report warns of potential firm relocations from California due to state enforcement risks.
What is happening with the Fox-Roku deal?
Fox's $22B Roku acquisition faces Democratic pressure for DOJ scrutiny over political interference concerns. Lawmakers cite risks from DOJ's anti-trial stance.
What AI-related policies is the FTC advancing?
The FTC seeks comments on its AI Section 5 policy and a proposed AI accuracy statement. It also issued its FY2026-2030 strategic plan emphasizing merger enforcement.
What is the DOJ's new whistleblower program?
The DOJ launched a Criminal Antitrust Whistleblower Reward Program to boost cartel detection. It signals a shift toward behavioral remedies in settlements like Deere and Live Nation.
How is Meta's antitrust case progressing?
Meta's appeal has support from 29 states backing the FTC, while Texas sued over WhatsApp encryption. The FTC also filed an amicus brief on monopolization intent.
What merger review changes did the DOJ announce?
The DOJ introduced a faster merger review process with targeted requests. It also issued new Antitrust Collaboration Guidelines amid stable HSR filings but rising billion-dollar deals.
HSR filings surged to 235 in May 2026. New HSR rules add 60+ hrs/deal. 12-state AG lawsuit against Paramount-WBD merger with TRO granted; Paramount demands $1.9B bond from states; California AG Bonta rejects bond, trial set for March 2, 2027; settlement talks underway with Bonta demanding robust structural remedies and $650M quarterly ticking fees. FTC seeks comment on AI accuracy policy. Record $12M HSR fine for Edwards/Genesis. DOJ whistleblower program. State AGs filling enforcement gap. FTC probes Epic Systems (dominant EHR vendor). DOJ probes Andreessen Horowitz over interlocking directorates (Section 8 Clayton Act) – year-long investigation, blurred AI market boundaries, de minimis exemptions losing force. FTC wins injunction in M&A case (Liquid Nails/Loctile). FTC deadlock on IonQ-SkyWater opens window for close-call deals. EU/UK clear Paramount-WBD with conditions. Google-Mechanize hybrid deal. DOJ resumes targeted HSR reviews.