Pre-Merger Integration Planning - Antitrust Law in the Context of Strategic Transactions with Competitors

Abstract

Thorough planning is key to a successful merger. When competitors want to merge, they often have to go through lengthy merger review proceedings, during which antitrust rules restrict their ability to engage in efficient joint planning. New guidelines by competition authorities recognize the need for early integration planning and explain how companies can launch joint planning prior to regulatory approval. With the right safeguards in place, companies can develop a ready-to-execute implementation plan while they try to convince the regulators to approve the deal.

Keywords: merger, integration planning, strategic transactions, clean team, merger review, competition law, antitrust, M&A, HSR, Altice, CADE, DOJ, European Commission

JEL Classification: K21, K33, K22, G34