EU Commission Investigates Potential Antitrust Violations in Financial Sector

The European Commission has conducted surprise inspections at financial services firms in two EU member states concerning possible breaches of antitrust regulations. The investigation focuses on suspected violations involving financial derivatives. If confirmed, formal probes and substantial fines could follow.

The European Commission has launched surprise inspections at financial services companies in two EU member states over potential antitrust violations.

In a statement, the Commission expressed concerns that these companies might have breached EU antitrust rules, which prohibit restrictive business practices. The Commission did not disclose the names of the companies, the number of firms inspected, or the member states involved. The investigation is centered around financial derivatives.

If the inspections uncover evidence of antitrust law violations, it could initiate formal investigations and lead to significant penalties for the implicated firms.

(With inputs from agencies.)