FTC To Examine Small Acquisitions Made By Big Tech Companies

The FTC has issued special orders to five major tech companies—Google, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Microsoft—requiring them to provide information on small acquisitions made over the past decade. These acquisitions were too minor to be reported under federal law but may have been attempts to stifle competition. The FTC, along with other authorities, is examining these transactions to identify any problematic mergers. While Google, Amazon, Apple, and Facebook have not yet commented, Microsoft has expressed willingness to cooperate.

What is the purpose of the wide-ranging studies conducted by the FTC?

How did the tech companies respond to the FTC's orders as of early Wednesday?