Technology Competition and Antitrust

The U.S. government uses antitrust laws to prevent dominant technology companies from blocking competition and harming consumers. As tech firms grow larger—controlling search, social media, and cloud infrastructure—regulators scrutinize practices that stifle innovation, raise prices, or limit choice.

How Regulators Review Tech Deals

Federal agencies like the FTC and DOJ examine whether mergers and partnerships concentrate too much market power. They review large strategic investments in AI, analyze partnerships between major tech firms, and investigate what triggers scrutiny in AI acquisitions. CFIUS also assesses dual-use technology mergers for national security. Even deals like Netflix acquiring Warner Bros. face obstacles.

Regulating Individual Platforms

Platforms raise unique issues. Debates cover Google’s search and ad dominance, Amazon’s practices, and Microsoft’s cloud strategies. Social media faces Meta’s legal challenges, while TikTok, Uber, and Airbnb spark regulatory debates.

Enforcement and Recent Developments

Aggressive actions target anticompetitive practices, including Big Tech partnerships and settlements like DOJ with RealPage. Questions persist on FTC merger authority.