United Kingdom: Competition and Markets Authority launched phase 1 merger inquiry into anticipated acquisition of Shutterstock by Getty Images
Description
Competition and Markets Authority launched phase 1 merger inquiry into anticipated acquisition of Shutterstock by Getty Images
On 22 August 2025, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched its phase 1 merger inquiry into the anticipated acquisition by Getty Images Holdings of Shutterstock by issuing a notice to the parties pursuant to paragraph (b) of the definition of “initial period” in Section 34ZA(3) of the Enterprise Act 2002. The CMA confirmed that it has sufficient information in relation to the merger to commence the inquiry for the purpose of determining whether to make a reference for a phase 2 investigation. Under Section 34ZA(3) of the Enterprise Act.
Original sourceScope
Policy Area
Competition
Policy Instrument
Merger control regulation
Regulated Economic Activity
platform intermediary: user-generated content
Implementation Level
national
Government Branch
executive
Government Body
competition authority
Complete timeline of this policy change
Hide details
2025-06-23
in consultation
2025-07-07
processing consultation
2025-08-22
under deliberation
2025-10-20
under investigation
2025-11-03
under investigation