The third quarter of 2025 saw continued robust activity and evolving strategies in antitrust M&A enforcement across major jurisdictions. In the United States, regulators adopted a pragmatic yet assertive approach, focusing on swift merger clearances or settlements while remaining vigilant on Hart-Scott-Rodino compliance and addressing “problematic tactics” in investigations. Meanwhile, European Union and United Kingdom merger control authorities demonstrated a dynamic shift towards greater flexibility, practical enforcement, and effective remedies, including jurisdictional referrals. Globally, scrutiny remained high across sectors like healthcare, aerospace, logistics, and digital platforms, with evolving priorities including safeguarding innovation, addressing labor-market effects, and managing competitive risks. These developments underscore a dynamic regulatory environment, influencing deal-making and industry consolidation.

In this edition of Antitrust M&A Snapshot, we provide an in-depth analysis of these trends and their potential impact on future transactions.

McDermott Will & Schulte’s global competition practice can assist clients with antitrust M&A issues in various jurisdictions around the world. Feel free to contact one or more of our partners in our various offices. The individuals below can assist or can refer you to one of our many other lawyers in our competition team who can help with a specific question.