Did an Obscure Remark in a Recent Regulatory Publication Signal a New Interpretation of the Anti-Tying Rules?

In 2003, the Federal Reserve released its proposed interpretation of the anti-tying provisions of the Bank Holding Company Act Amendments, in which it stated that market power and anti-competitive effects were not necessary elements of an illegal tying arrangement.  Despite substantial commentary on the Federal Reserve’s proposed interpretation from financial institutions and other regulators, including the Department of Justice, the Federal Reserve has not revised its proposed interpretation of the anti-tying provisions of the BHC Act.  This alert discusses a recent regulatory publication raising the possibility that the Federal Reserve may be revisiting its earlier stance.  For more information, please click here.