WASHINGTON—Yesterday, the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) appealed the November 2025 U.S. District Court ruling that Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp in the early 2010s did not create an illegal monopoly.
A policy environment that prioritizes breaking up successful American companies without following the consumer welfare standard runs counter to President Trump’s strategy to foster a new era of American entrepreneurialism and innovation.
“The FTC’s decision to prolong this litigation against Meta creates a period of regulatory instability that may inadvertently slow the domestic investment goals central to President Trump’s economic and affordability agenda,” said Patrick Hedger, NetChoice Director of Policy.
“The appeal continues a legal challenge based on assumptions that the District Court has already found to be preposterous. The agency is committing further public resources to a case that risks creating uncertainty beyond the technology sector by challenging successful mergers and acquisitions executed over a decade ago.”
The American tech industry remains highly competitive, with companies constantly innovating to improve the tools and services they offer to the public, positioning America to win the AI race. Effective antitrust policy should prioritize consumer choice and market-driven outcomes.
Read the District Court’s November 2025 ruling here.
Please contact press@netchoice.org with inquiries.
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