Overview
- Britain’s Competition and Markets Authority escalated the proposed $3.7 billion acquisition to a Phase 2 investigation after finding the companies’ remedy package did not fully address competition concerns.
- The watchdog warned the deal could lead to higher prices, worse commercial terms, or lower quality for UK buyers of editorial and stock visual content.
- Getty Images and Shutterstock said they were disappointed by the referral but stated they remain committed to the transaction and will continue to engage with the CMA.
- The CMA’s final decision is due by April 16, 2026, and the U.S. Department of Justice is also reviewing the merger.
- Both firms license photos, illustrations, video and music to UK media, advertisers, publishers, designers and smaller creative businesses, while Getty’s shares rose about 1.3% to $1.90 Monday before trading lower in Tuesday premarket.