Author: 21st Century Competition

US/Ireland: Chiquita progresses with $1B Dublin purchase (Competition Policy International)

Chiquita Brands International is reportedly moving forward with its $1 billion acquisition of Ireland-based Fyffes, reports say.

The two are among the world’s top banana companies. Their merger has already received antitrust clearance from US regulators.

The deal still remains subject to shareholder approval by both companies, but reports say the firms …read more

EU: Forex probe slow but steady, says Commission (Competition Policy International)

The European Commission continues to trudge through information regarding allegations of manipulation of the foreign exchange market, the regulator said Thursday, but warned the public not to expect an outcome for another several weeks.

Reports say a senior EU official told reporters that the regulator is analyzing information regarding alleged forex-rigging …read more

Saudi Arabia: Agenda to promote IPOs finally takes off (Competition Policy International)

While Saudi Arabia has been hoping for years to open its market up to foreign investment, it has only recently seen the optimal time to do so as the Gulf region’s regulation has relaxed and nations look to diversify their economies.

According to reports, the latest sign of new competition entering …read more

US/UK: Healthcare tech conglomerate may use merger to shift overseas (Competition Policy International)

Leading healthcare technology firm Medtronic is reportedly looking to acquire UK-based Smith & Nephew, a deal reports say could shift Medtronic’s finances overseas.

The US firm, which is the largest manufacturer of heart rhythm technologies, is evaluating a possible acquisition of the London company, which currently has a market value of …read more