DOJ and FTC Seek Input About Serial Acquisitions

DOJ and the FTC on Thursday requested public comment on “serial acquisitions and roll-up strategies” that the agencies believe harm competition. The FTC said enforcers are seeking information in all sectors of the economy. Cybersecurity and aftermarket repair were among the agencies’ highlighted sectors. DOJ and the FTC want to ensure antitrust enforcement tools are keeping pace with the modern economy, they said. “Firms can use serial acquisitions to roll up markets, consolidate power, and undermine fair competition, all while jacking up prices and degrading quality,” FTC Chair Lina Khan said. DOJ Antitrust Division Chief Jonathan Kanter said, “Public input about where these acquisitions have occurred and how they have impacted competition will help us identify and pursue harmful conduct.” Comments are due July 22.