The FTC’s competition mission is to enforce the rules of the competitive marketplace — the antitrust laws. These laws promote vigorous competition and protect consumers from anticompetitive mergers and business practices.

What government agency enforces antitrust laws?

The Federal Government. Both the FTC and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division enforce the federal antitrust laws. In some respects their authorities overlap, but in practice the two agencies complement each other.

What is the FTC responsible for regulating?

The FTC enforces federal consumer protection laws that prevent fraud, deception and unfair business practices. The Commission also enforces federal antitrust laws that prohibit anticompetitive mergers and other business practices that could lead to higher prices, fewer choices, or less innovation.

Does the FTC prevent monopolies?

The antitrust laws prohibit conduct by a single firm that unreasonably restrains competition by creating or maintaining monopoly power. This requires in-depth study of the products sold by the leading firm, and any alternative products consumers may turn to if the firm attempted to raise prices. …

What’s a rule of reason antitrust violation?

The “Rule of Reason” approach A contract, combination or conspiracy that unreasonably restrains trade and does not fit into the per se category is usually analyzed under the so-called rule of reason test. This test focuses on the state of competition within a well-defined relevant agreement.

What constitutes an antitrust violation?

Violations of laws designed to protect trade and commerce from abusive practices such as price-fixing, restraints, price discrimination, and monopolization.

Does the FTC regulate banks?

The FTC’s authority covers for-profit entities such as mortgage companies, mortgage brokers, creditors, and debt collectors – but not banks, savings and loan institutions, and federal credit unions.

Why does the Federal Trade Commission enforce antitrust laws?

Guide to Antitrust Laws. Aggressive competition among sellers in an open marketplace gives consumers — both individuals and businesses — the benefits of lower prices, higher quality products and services, more choices, and greater innovation. The FTC’s competition mission is to enforce the rules of the competitive marketplace — the antitrust laws.

How to report an antitrust violation to the FTC?

Within each topic you will find links to more detailed guidance materials developed by the FTC and the U.S. Department of Justice. For additional information about the work of the Bureau, or to report a suspected antitrust violation, contact us.

How does the Federal Trade Commission enforce the Clayton Act?

The Commission enforces various antitrust laws under Section 5 (a) of the FTC Act as well as the Clayton Act. The FTC monitors all its orders to ensure compliance.

What is the mission of the Federal Trade Commission?

The FTC’s competition mission is to enforce the rules of the competitive marketplace — the antitrust laws. These laws promote vigorous competition and protect consumers from anticompetitive mergers and business practices. The FTC’s Bureau of Competition, working in tandem with the Bureau of Economics,…