FTC Retains Biden-Era Merger Guidelines Under Trump Administration

Chairman Andrew Ferguson announces continuity in antitrust enforcement, emphasizing stability and resource efficiency.

The Federal Trade Commission will continue using the 2023 merger guidelines established during the Biden administration, which adopt a stricter approach to antitrust enforcement.
FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson highlighted the importance of stability and resource management in retaining the guidelines, though he acknowledged they are not without flaws.
David Shaw, an experienced antitrust lawyer, has been appointed as the FTC's principal deputy director, bringing expertise in high-stakes litigation and Big Tech investigations.
Additional senior appointments include Kelse Moen and Douglas C. Geho, who bring extensive experience in competition law and consumer protection, respectively.
The decision signals a continuation of aggressive antitrust scrutiny of corporate mergers, though the Trump administration's overall approach to regulation remains somewhat unclear.