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Merger control has become a prominent topic in recent years due to significant economic uncertainty. The challenges of 2024 for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) were exacerbated by merger control and foreign investment obstacles. Factors such as geopolitical instability, a weaker M&A market, and increased risks of antitrust and foreign investment interventions all contributed to the decline in M&A activity.

Jurisdictions around the world have been reassessing and updating their merger control measures. In the UK, early 2025 saw major reforms to merger control thresholds and the introduction of a new digital regulation regime, following the implementation of key sections of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

Similarly, in the US, the Federal Trade Commission, in collaboration with the Department of Justice, finalised new rules in October 2024, initially proposed in June 2023, which will significantly alter the reporting requirements for mergers and acquisitions under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976.

Despite these challenges, there is optimism that pro-business and growth-oriented policies in key jurisdictions may foster a more favourable regulatory environment in the future.

Against this backdrop, Financier Worldwide turns to some of the leading lights in their field, who share their stories…

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