Exclusive-SAP offers concessions in bid to address EU antitrust concerns, sources say

Core Viewpoint - SAP, Europe's largest software maker, is making concessions to address EU antitrust concerns regarding its business practices to avoid an investigation and potential fines [1][4]. Group 1: Antitrust Concerns - SAP has been under scrutiny from the European Commission for several years due to complaints from companies about complex terms, licensing conditions, and bundling of applications that increase costs and complicate switching to competitors [2][5]. - The European Commission is investigating whether it is easy for companies to switch from SAP and Oracle's ERP software to rival vendors, focusing on aftermarket support services and potential barriers to switching [6]. Group 2: Proposed Remedies - SAP has proposed remedies to resolve regulatory concerns related to its ERP software, although specific details of the proposal have not been disclosed [3]. - Typical remedies may include allowing more flexibility for companies in service contracts and facilitating easier transitions to rival vendors [7]. Group 3: Potential Consequences - If SAP can satisfy the European Commission, it may avoid an investigation and a fine that could reach up to 10% of its annual global sales [4].