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EU Watchdogs Probe Vivendi For Gun-Jumping Lagardere Acquisition

By  |  June 15, 2023

The European Commission is investigating whether Vivendi violated antitrust laws by completing its acquisition of Lagardere without obtaining regulatory approval.

The EU antitrust watchdog has increased fines for gun jumping, with companies facing penalties of up to 10% of their group’s aggregate turnover as a deterrent.

Reuters reported that the EU executive has been informed by media reports, but has not initiated a formal investigation at this time.

Related: EU Watchdogs Approve Vivendi, Lagardere Deal

“The Commission was made aware of allegations of gun-jumping, which have been reported in the press. The Commission can confirm that it is looking into the matter,” the EU executive said in an email.

Last week, the EU competition enforcer approved the deal with certain conditions. The handling of infringement proceedings is distinct from the review process for mergers.