Google has applied for European Commission merger control clearance of its proposed takeover of handset manufacturer Motorola Mobility, according to the EC website.
The Brussels based regulator now has 25 working days until 10 January to clear the…
Google has applied for European Commission merger control clearance of its proposed takeover of handset manufacturer Motorola Mobility, according to the EC website.
The Brussels based regulator now has 25 working days until 10 January to clear the transaction. This so-called phase I investigation can be extended by 10 working days if Google offers remedies to address antitrust concerns in due course of the process.
If the EC’s initial investigation finds that the transaction raises serious antitrust doubts it can open a 90 working day phase II investigation.
The proposed merger has already received a second request form US regulators, which is the equivalent to the EC phase II investigation.
TelecomFinance reported earlier that the merging parties take the view that remedies are not required.
The companies had said previously that they expect completion of the deal by the end of 2011 or in early 2012. But, given the schedule of regulatory filings, the companies said in mid November that they expect the deal to close in early 2012, towards the end of its initial forecast.
