any that only control 10%. For consumers there would be a lack of competition would leave no incentive to lower prices and for the competition they would have less access to consumers.The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (as stated on their website at www.ftc.gov) enforces a variety of federal antitrust and consumer protection laws. The Commission seeks to ensure that the nation's markets function competitively, and are vigorous, efficient, and free of undue restrictions. The Commission also works to enhance the smooth operation of the marketplace by eliminating acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive. In general, the Commission's efforts are directed toward stopping actions that threaten consumers' opportunities to exercise informed choice. Finally, the Commission undertakes economic analysis to support its law enforcement efforts and to contribute to the policy deliberations of the Congress, the Executive Branch, other independent agencies, and state and local governments when requested. This is the agency that will analyze and decide the merger of AOL and Time Warner will hurt consumers or competition. "In the broad sense, our concern was that the merger of these two powerful companies would deny to competitors access to this amazing new broadband technology," said Robert Pitofsky, Chairman of the FTC. "This order is intended to ensure that this new medium, characterized by openness, diversity and freedom, will not be closed down as a result of this merger." There are three major concerns that the FTC has with regards to the merger, Access by other broadband companies to the Time-Warner cable system, Interference of content of non-AOL/Time Warner companies on their system, and access to Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) services to the Time-Warner broadband cable market which would keep AOL interested in pursuing the development of the DSL technology.As stated in the FTC approval, the Commission's antitrust concerns would be reso...
