EU Antitrust Rules May Change for Startups Not Involving Big Tech

The European Union is proposing a revamp of merger rules that may allow startups to secure expedited antitrust approval if they can demonstrate innovation benefits, provided that Big Tech is not involved. This revision, the first in over 20 years, aims to help telecoms better compete against U.S. and Chinese companies. A draft indicates the introduction of an 'innovation shield' that protects deals involving startups or R&D projects. However, this shield excludes acquisitions by market leaders or those designated as gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act, which targets Big Tech companies.