Germany

BaFin Consultation on General Administrative Act for Futures

The German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has opened a consultation on a planned General Administrative Act concerning futures with additional payment obligations. This act aims to address investor protection concerns, particularly the risk of unlimited losses.

BaFin Orders Capital Buffer for Systemic Risks

The German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has ordered a two percent capital buffer for systemic risks related to residential real estate financing. This measure aims to strengthen the stability of the financial system and applies to various financial institutions.

Strabag acquisition of Stumpp group cleared with condition

The German Bundeskartellamt has cleared Strabag's acquisition of the Stumpp group, a road construction company. The clearance is conditional on Stumpp selling its asphalt mixing plant in Zimmern to a third party before the merger is implemented to prevent market dominance.

Bundeskartellamt Market Power Report: Electricity Producers

The Bundeskartellamt's Market Power Report 2024/25 indicates a significant increase in market power for major German electricity producers like RWE and LEAG following the decommissioning of dispatchable power plants. The report highlights concerns about competition and suggests measures to reduce market concentration in upcoming tenders for new power plants.

Bundeskartellamt: Check24 commits to abandoning price parity clauses

The German Bundeskartellamt has accepted commitments from Check24 GmbH to abandon price parity clauses in its contracts with energy suppliers. This decision concludes investigations initiated in July 2025 and aims to foster competition among comparison websites and sales channels.

23rd International Conference on Competition 2026

The German Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt) will host its 23rd International Conference on Competition (IKK) in Berlin from March 11-13, 2026. The event brings together global experts to discuss current challenges in competition law and policy, including geopolitical impacts, AI, and merger control.