KKR charged with misleading EU regulators over Telecom Italia network deal

The European Commission issued KKR a formal statement of objections over information it says the firm supplied during review of its €22 billion acquisition of Telecom Italia’s fixed-line network. The dispute concerns assurances about long-term wholesale access agreements for competing telecom operators.

KKR disputes the Commission’s preliminary view and will have an opportunity to respond; the original approval remains in place while the process continues. The Commission’s objection, the earlier merger review, KKR’s response and competitors’ complaints provide a record of how control of essential network infrastructure can affect downstream access and prices.