Overview
- The UK Competition and Markets Authority referred the proposed merger to a Phase 2 investigation following its preliminary inquiry.
- Concerns identified include potential for higher prices, worse commercial terms, or lower-quality editorial and stock content.
- Getty and Shutterstock offered a complex remedies package, which the CMA said did not fully resolve the issues.
- Both companies said they remain committed to the deal and will continue engaging with the regulator to secure clearance.
- The CMA noted a parallel U.S. Department of Justice review and outlined options ranging from clearance to divestitures or a block.