antitrust law
Antitrust law refers to a set of regulations designed to promote fair competition and prevent monopolies in the marketplace. These laws aim to protect consumers by ensuring that no single company can dominate a market, which could lead to higher prices and reduced choices. Key legislation in the United States includes the Sherman Act and the Clayton Act.
Enforcement of antitrust laws is typically carried out by government agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). These agencies investigate and challenge business practices that may harm competition, such as price-fixing, market allocation, and mergers that could create monopolistic power.