UK's Competition and Markets Authority Initiates Investigation

The United Kingdom's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced the commencement of a merger inquiry into BlackRock Inc.'s proposed acquisition of Preqin Ltd. This development follows a preliminary review initiated earlier this month, during which the CMA invited relevant parties to provide their perspectives on the deal.

The CMA has set a deadline of February 12, 2025, for its phase 1 decision. If the watchdog determines that the merger would lead to a "substantial lessening of competition," it may progress to a more detailed phase 2 investigation. Such a move underscores the regulatory body's commitment to ensuring fair competition within the market.