CMA launches formal investigation into Vodafone / Three merger

Summary:

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has started a Phase 1 investigation into Vodafone UK's joint venture agreement with Three UK. The deal would combine the companies' telecommunications operations under one single network provider. The CMA will assess the potential impact of the merger on competition, using the next 40 working days to complete the investigation. The outcome will determine whether the deal leads to a "substantial lessening of competition"" and whether a more in-depth Phase 2 investigation is required.