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Nielsen-Arbitron Deal Hits Potential Roadblock

FTC asks both companies for more information, according to published accounts

Nielsen previously withdrew its application to buy Arbitron to give the Federal Trade Commission more time to review the proposed $1.26 billion deal, we’ve reported.

Now, the FTC has formally asked Nielsen and Arbitron for more information, which, at the least, could delay when the agreement closes.

Apparently there’s some concern over whether the combined companies would constitute a monopoly in the emerging cross-platform measurement market, AdAge first reported.

After the companies comply with the so-called “second request,” the FTC would have 30 days to make a decision; however it’s unclear how long actually complying with the request would take, according to the account.

Should the transaction not receive regulatory approval, Nielsen would pay Arbitron a $131 million break-up fee, we’ve reported.

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