In response to the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) recent announcement regarding the finalized rule on filing requirements under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act, ACT | The App Association has expressed approval. Morgan Reed, President of ACT | The App Association, commented on the FTC's decision.

"Today, we are encouraged by the FTC’s decision to listen to the significant concerns voiced by small businesses, making meaningful changes to its original proposal," said Reed. He noted that after meeting with over 50 members of the App Association in May, many of their concerns were reflected in the finalized rule. Reed emphasized their commitment to working with the FTC to ensure small business interests remain a priority in future rulemaking.

The new rule includes reinstating early termination letters, which restores certainty around mergers and acquisitions—a concern that was raised about potential disruptions from the original proposal.

The initial updates proposed by the FTC in September 2023 prompted a letter from the App Association highlighting how these changes did not adequately consider small business needs. Following advocacy efforts and meetings with 50 association members in May 2024, adjustments were made to address these issues. The App Association plans to continue collaborating with its members and partners to advocate for merger and acquisition rules that align with current economic conditions and represent small companies' voices in FTC decisions.

ACT | The App Association represents small and medium-sized technology companies globally. Its members include entrepreneurs, innovators, and independent developers who engage across various industries within the app ecosystem. The association works towards fostering a policy environment conducive to innovation while providing resources for capital raising, job creation, and technological advancement.