"On January 7, 2026, real estate giants Compass and Anywhere Real Estate announced they cleared a major regulatory hurdle for their proposed $1.6 billion merger. The waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Antitrust Improvements Act expired at 11:59 p.m. on January 2, 2026, without a challenge from the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)."
"This milestone follows significant political pressure and market concerns regarding the deal: Congressional Scrutiny: Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden had urged federal regulators to investigate the deal, citing concerns that the consolidation could stifle competition and lead to higher commission fees for consumers. Market Share Concerns: Independent analyses suggested the merger could create "potentially illegal overlaps" in a dozen states, with the combined entity controlling over 30% of certain urban markets like Manhattan and Newport Beach."
"Despite the expired waiting period, the deal remains subject to other conditions: Shareholder Approval: Both firms scheduled special stockholder meetings for January 7, 2026, to vote on the merger agreement. Litigation: Anywhere is currently facing at least three lawsuits from stockholders alleging incomplete or inaccurate disclosures related to the merger. Final Closing: The companies expect the transaction to officially close in the second half of 2026."
Compass and Anywhere cleared the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period on January 2, 2026, without challenge from the DOJ or FTC. Significant political pressure and market-share concerns accompanied the deal, with Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden urging investigation and analyses warning of potential overlaps giving the combined firm over 30% share in some urban markets. The transaction would combine major brokerage brands under Compass. The deal still requires shareholder approval, faces at least three shareholder lawsuits alleging disclosure problems, and is expected to close in the second half of 2026. Shares of Anywhere and Compass jumped on the regulatory news, and Compass launched a $750 million convertible notes offering.
Read at Boston Condos For Sale Ford Realty
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