The European Antitrust has opened an in-depth investigation into the proposed merger between Deutsche Boerse and the London Stock Exchange, stating that the operation risks reducing competition in some key sectors of the financial markets.
Combining the exchanges of Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy, together with several European clearing houses, the operation would create the largest European exchange operator.
"The financial markets perform an essential function for the European economy - said the European Commissioner for Competition, Margrethe Vestager - We must ensure that those who participate in share trading can always have access to competitive markets".
At the moment the Commission has until February 13 to express itself on the merger plan, but the deadline could be postponed if the parties involved agree to collaborate with some concessions.
