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UK Launches In-Depth Probe into Vodafone-Hutchison Merger

By  |  April 4, 2024

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated a thorough investigation into the proposed merger between Vodafone’s UK branch and Hutchison’s Three UK. This move comes after the companies failed to address competition concerns raised by the regulator.

The $19 billion merger, announced last year, would reduce the number of major networks in the UK from four to three, contrary to the industry norm. The CMA had expressed worries about potential price hikes for consumers and reduced investment in telecom infrastructure.

Related: EU Approve Vodafone-CK Hutchison £19 Billion Merger in the UK

Despite calls for solutions to alleviate these concerns, Vodafone and Hutchison opted not to offer any undertakings. As a result, the CMA has escalated its scrutiny, signaling a deeper examination into the merger’s effects.

Source: Finance Yahoo