American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT), a leading provider of travel, expense management, and meetings & events solutions, has received a provisional green light from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) regarding its proposed acquisition of a global business travel and solutions provider. The CMA’s initial ruling, which found no competition concerns, paves the way for the deal to move forward. A final decision is expected by March 9, 2025.
However, the company remains locked in a legal battle with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). In January 2025, the DOJ’s Antitrust Division filed a lawsuit seeking to block the transaction, citing competition concerns. Amex GBT has challenged the lawsuit, arguing that the DOJ’s stance is based on outdated views of the market and fails to account for the growing number of competitors in the business travel industry.
The CMA’s updated provisional findings represent a significant step forward for Amex GBT. The company believes the ruling strengthens its position and underscores the deal’s potential to benefit customers, suppliers, and employees. If approved, the acquisition is expected to spur innovation and investment in the business travel sector, offering enhanced value and choice for stakeholders.
Amex GBT first announced its agreement to acquire the business travel provider on March 25, 2024. The deal remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals from relevant authorities.
The company remains optimistic about the transaction’s prospects, emphasizing its potential to reshape the business travel landscape and deliver long-term benefits to the industry.
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