The Federal Trade Commission has issued a complaint charging Broadcom with illegally monopolizing markets for semiconductor components used to deliver television and broadband internet services through exclusive dealing and related conduct. The Commission has also issued a proposed consent order that would settle the Commission's charges. Under the consent order, Broadcom must stop requiring its customers to source components from Broadcom on an exclusive or near exclusive basis.
"Today's complaint reflects the Commission's commitment to enforcing the antitrust laws against monopolists, including in high-technology industries," said FTC Bureau of Competition Acting Director Holly Vedova. "America has a monopoly problem. Today's action is a step toward addressing that problem by pushing back against strong-arm tactics by a monopolist in important markets for key broadband components. There is much more work to be done and we need the tools and resources to do it. But I have full confidence in FTC staff's commitment to this effort."