IMPALA's reaction to UK CMA's provisional decision on Sony/AWAL & Kobalt Neighbouring Rights deal

14 February 2022 - Press release

IMPALA's Helen Smith commented: "It’s a provisional set of findings, so we will comment in time for the CMA’s deadline of 4 March, with their final decision due later in March. We remain concerned that this acquisition will have a negative effect on competition and of course for artists, independent music companies and consumers."

"We will read the CMA’s arguments with care and will consult our members again to get their views on the specific rationale applied by the regulator, so we can provide as useful input as possible. The case also highlights the need for the independent sector to have options when it comes to accessing finance."