Meta's Antitrust Trial Over Instagram and WhatsApp Acquisitions Begins
The FTC has launched an antitrust trial against Meta over its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, alleging the deals were intended to curb competition. With CEO Mark Zuckerberg set to testify, the trial could reshape future Big Tech merger and acquisition policies.
Published on April 15, 2025
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated a major antitrust trial against Meta, focusing on its 2012 acquisition of Instagram and 2014 acquisition of WhatsApp. The agency alleges these acquisitions were aimed at neutralizing competition, potentially forcing Meta to divest the platforms in order to restore market balance.
Presided over by Judge James Boasberg, the trial—which began on April 14, 2025—features key testimony from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. As the proceedings unfold, industry watchers note that the outcome could influence the trajectory of Big Tech merger and acquisition strategies, with arguments centering on whether the deals ultimately benefited consumers or suppressed rising competitive threats.