In April, Google announced its plans to acquire DoubleClick for $3.1 billion. A month later, that acquisition was contested and reviewed by the FTC. At that point, Google was confident that the deal would withstand scrutiny.

Fast-forward to December, and Google speaks the truth. The Federal Trade Commission writes:

...after carefully reviewing the evidence, we have concluded that Google’s proposed acquisition of DoubleClick is unlikely to substantially lessen competition.

Some forum members are shocked. Others aren't so surprised.

It'll be approved. Heck, if Microsoft wanted to buy Christmas, that would be approved as well.

Microsoft just announced an ad deal with Viacom, so it's not like they're not looking for strategic ways to compete with Google for this deal. And I guess that's what the FTC has determined.

Forum discussion continues at WebmasterWorld, Search Engine Watch Forums, and DigitalPoint Forums.

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