In recent years, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ)—the two US agencies responsible for reviewing and challenging transactions that may lessen competition—have increasingly challenged non-reportable and consummated transactions. There have been several such challenges so far in 2011, and at least nine in 2010 (all but one of which resulted in a settlement).
In M&A transactions, early involvement of antitrust counsel is essential to avoid unnecessary expense, delay and antitrust risks. Failure to involve antitrust counsel early on in the process may not only jeopardize the parties’ ability to obtain antitrust clearance, but it can also give rise to potential exposure for independent antitrust violations and deal risk. This article discusses five avoidable antitrust pitfalls to keep in mind early in any transaction planning process.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced revised thresholds for the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (HSR Act) and 2011 thresholds for determining whether parties trigger the prohibition against interlocking directors under Section 8 of the Clayton Act. Increased reporting thresholds apply to pre-merger notifications filed on or after February 24, 2011.