Given the European Union’s recent blocking of the merger proposal between Siemens and Alstom, we’re exploring how the German and French companies' deal would have challenged European Union competition laws.
Joining me for this conversation is Robert Klotz. Robert is a partner in the Antitrust & Competition Practice Group in Sheppard Mullin’s Brussels office. He concentrates on all aspects of EU and German competition and regulatory law and represents clients before the European Commission and national authorities, with a particular focus on network industries, such as energy, telecommunications, post and transport.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
Are competition laws most effective when applied within the boundaries of a country? How did the European Union’s blocking of the Siemens and Alstom proposed merger affect various businesses in the EU? What was the strongest argument in favor of the merger? What is the substance of the reform proposals brought about by France and Germany? Is it important to explore the intent behind a country’s competition laws? Does an argument for a global market undermine an individual country’s competition laws? Should there be an automatic acknowledgment of global markets in every competition law assessment? What were some of the Commission’s conclusions while reviewing the merger proposal? What can other nations learn from one specific public interest provision in Germany’s competition laws? Will China’s refusal to allow outside companies to compete within its borders put pressure on other countries like those in Europe and the US?Resources Mentioned:
Robert’s article, "No time for losers, 'cause we are the Champions!"
Contact Information:
Robert's Sheppard Mullin attorney profile
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