American states have a long history of antitrust enforcement. But consolidation across industries and the growth of anti-monopolist politics among leftists and MAGA economic populists have put the issue centre-stage https://t.co/4EeRoxTwjG ...

States are beefing up their antitrust enforcement https://t.co/0HqeGNLdBx ...

Core Viewpoint - The Justice Department has settled its case against RealPage, addressing allegations of algorithmic collusion among landlords to inflate rents, which is expected to restore competition in rental markets for millions of American renters [1][2][4]. Summary by Sections Settlement Details - The settlement requires RealPage to cease using "nonpublic, competitively sensitive information" from landlords for rent pricing and to only use data that is at least 12 months old [2][6]. - RealPage must stop soliciting sensitive rental market information through surveys and discussing nonpublic market trends in meetings [8]. - The agreement mandates court approval before implementation [3]. Impact on the Rental Market - The DOJ stated that the settlement would help restore free market competition in rental markets, emphasizing the need for independent pricing decisions among competing companies [2]. - The lawsuit alleged that RealPage's software enabled landlords to prioritize profits over occupancy, exacerbating housing supply issues and increasing costs for renters [4][5]. Legal Context - The lawsuit was initially filed by the DOJ alongside eight states, accusing RealPage of operating an illegal monopoly in property management software for multi-family housing [9]. - The case marked a significant move by the DOJ against algorithmic collusion, highlighting concerns as industries increasingly rely on software [12]. Cooperation and Future Actions - As part of the settlement, RealPage agreed to cooperate with the DOJ in ongoing lawsuits against other landlord defendants [11][12]. - The DOJ previously reached settlements with some of the co-defendants, while proceedings against others are still pending [11].

Group 1: Investment Opportunities in Packaged Goods - Investment in packaged goods stocks, such as Procter & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark, is suggested as they are seen as undervalued winners in the sector [1][2] - The packaged goods sector has faced challenges due to high inflation and low growth, but inflation may be nearing its peak, potentially reducing costs for consumer giants [2] - Kimberly-Clark's acquisition of Kenvue is noted, along with praise for its brands, while Procter & Gamble is recognized for its innovation and scale to lower product costs [3] Group 2: Broader Market Insights - Clorox is highlighted as a poor performer in the S&P 500, but its products, including Burt's Bees and Hidden Valley, are still favored [3] - General Mills is mentioned as a risky investment, particularly if there is speculation about a takeover, due to the impact of weight loss drugs on food stocks [3] - Beyond traditional packaged goods, opportunities in pharmaceuticals are emphasized, with Johnson & Johnson and Amgen identified as solid picks amid expected industry mergers [4]

Antitrust Enforcement Concerns - 指控司法部高级官员与受青睐的游说者达成协议 [1] - 质疑司法部反垄断执法的独立性 [1] Personnel Changes - 一名反垄断律师上个月被司法部解雇 [1]