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EU To Scrutinize Adobe’s $20B Figma Acquisition In Comprehensive Review

Regulators intensify examination of game-changing deal, as Adobe faces global regulatory scrutiny.

The $20-billion acquisition of design startup Figma Inc. by Adobe Inc. is reportedly set to undergo a rigorous review by the European Union’s merger regulators, intensifying the global examination of a deal that Adobe’s CEO has labeled as “game-changing”.

Adobe has chosen not to suggest solutions to potential competition issues, leading to an impending comprehensive investigation by the EU’s competition division, as per sources familiar with the situation contacted by Bloomberg.

Adobe’s $20B Bet: Figma Acquisition Under EU’s Lens

The phase two investigations typically extend the review process by approximately 90 working days. While regulators often require remedies to address competition concerns, they may also grant unconditional approval if initial apprehensions prove to be baseless.

In this photo illustration, the Figma logo seen displayed on a smartphone. The $20 billion acquisition of design firm Figma Inc. by Adobe Inc. will be subject to a careful study by the European Union’s merger regulators, stepping up the scrutiny of a deal that Adobe’s CEO has dubbed “game-changing” on a global scale. RAFAEL HENRIQUE/SOPA IMAGES/LIGHT ROCKET/GETTY IMAGES

The acquisition represents a significant wager on the increasing shift of creative work to the web by small businesses and everyday users, a market that Figma has swiftly captured. Despite Adobe’s introduction of more affordable, simplified products for this demographic, the majority of its offerings remain robust programs designed for professionals.

An Adobe spokesperson stated that the company is maintaining “constructive dialogues with regulatory authorities globally.” Figma has yet to comment on the matter.

Global Regulatory Scrutiny Intensifies

Adobe, a longstanding leader in creative software, is also under the microscope in the United States, with the U.S. Justice Department reportedly preparing an antitrust lawsuit to halt the merger.

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority had previously announced a prolonged review on July 13 after Adobe failed to propose remedies for antitrust concerns. The authority is expected to release its findings by Dec. 27.

In this photo illustration, the Figma logo seen displayed on a smartphone. The $20 billion acquisition of design firm Figma Inc. by Adobe Inc. will be subject to a careful study by the European Union’s merger regulators, stepping up the scrutiny of a deal that Adobe’s CEO has dubbed “game-changing” on a global scale. RAFAEL HENRIQUE/SOPA IMAGES/LIGHT ROCKET/GETTY IMAGES

The deal coincides with Adobe’s integration of generative AI features across its product range. Last month, the company launched enterprise-level subscriptions for these new tools, which include protection against copyright claims. Adobe has also increased its revenue forecast for its Digital Media unit, which encompasses Photoshop and other creative software.

This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Zenger News editors.

Produced in association with Benzinga

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