FCC Industry Analysis

Third-Party Arbitration Funding: Turmoil and Growth in 2025

A March 2026 article discusses the turbulent year for third-party arbitration funding in 2025, noting industry consolidation and a significant fraud suit. Despite challenges, the sector saw continued international arbitration claims, with 7% of new ICSID cases in 2025 involving funders.

Global Antitrust Enforcement Report Analysis

A&O Shearman has published a global antitrust enforcement report analyzing trends across over 30 jurisdictions. The report highlights a significant increase in cartel fines, reaching USD3.3 billion in 2025, and increased scrutiny of digital markets and investigative powers.

Regulatory Scrutiny of Procedural Compliance and Penalties in 2025

In 2025, regulators in the EU, China, and the US increased enforcement of procedural non-compliance. The European Commission fined Eurofield approximately USD194,000 for incomplete information, and the Italian AGCM fined Ryanair USD1.47 million for similar issues. These actions highlight a growing trend of penalties for procedural missteps.

Podcast: UK vs. U.S. Investment Screening Regimes

Wiley Rein LLP published a podcast discussing the differences between the UK's investment screening regime under the National Security and Investment Act and the U.S. CFIUS program. The podcast features insights on evolving national security concerns and practical advice for businesses involved in cross-border investments.

FAR Council Proposes Rule Restricting Covered Semiconductor Products

The FAR Council has proposed a rule to implement Section 5949 of the FY 2023 NDAA, restricting federal agencies from procuring products or services containing certain covered semiconductor products from designated entities. The proposal includes requirements for contractor inquiry, certification, and potential reporting.

Supreme Court Ruling on IEEPA Tariffs Impacts Duty Refund Process

The Supreme Court has ruled against the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for enacting tariffs. While the ruling entitles importers to refunds, a specific process is still being developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Court of International Trade (CIT). CBP is working on an ACE functionality to streamline refunds, with a target deployment in 45 days.

EC Seeks Technical Advice on Taxonomy Regulation Disclosures

The European Commission has requested technical advice from the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) on key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Disclosures Delegated Act under the Taxonomy Regulation. The EC aims to review and simplify taxonomy reporting, with advice due by October and potential amendments targeted for Q1 2027.

Proposed Rule on Section 5949 NDAA Chip Supply Chain Ban

The FAR Council has issued a proposed rule to implement Section 5949 of the NDAA, clarifying prohibitions on certain Chinese semiconductor products and services in federal procurements. The rule aims to enhance supply chain security for government contractors and applies broadly to all federal acquisitions.

Global Antitrust Fines Reached $7.7 Billion in 2025

A&O Shearman's March 2026 report indicates global antitrust fines rose to $7.7 billion in 2025, the highest since 2021. While the total number of infringement decisions decreased, the report highlights a strategic shift by regulators towards more efficient enforcement, focusing on key sectors and utilizing "soft" tools alongside targeted "hard" fines for deterrence and precedent-setting.

Antitrust Enforcement Fines Regional Snapshots 2025

This document provides a visual breakdown of antitrust enforcement fines across Europe, APAC, and the Americas for 2025. It highlights regional differences in enforcement priorities and the types of conduct most commonly penalized by competition authorities, noting significant financial figures for Europe.