Our Curious Amalgam

Do AI algorithms have the ability to conspire and collude? Join us as we dive into the black box of algorithm pricing with Dr. Ai Deng, a principal in the consulting firm Charles River Associates. We will discuss the implications of AI technology on competition, two types of algorithmic collusion, and how AI approaches economic incentives. Don't miss this fascinating discussion about AI and pricing algorithms! With special guest: Dr. Ai Deng, Principal, Charles River Associates Related Links: Ai Deng, What Do We Know About Algorithmic Collusion Now? New Insights from the Latest Academic Research (2023) Ai Deng & Cristián Hernández, Algorithmic Pricing in Horizontal Merger Review: An Initial Assessment, Antitrust, Vol. 36, No. 2 (Spring 2022) Ai Deng, Algorithmic Collusion and Algorithmic Compliance: Risks and Opportunities, The Global Antitrust Institute Report on the Digital Economy 27 (2021) Las Vegas hotels accused of rental price conspiracy in class action, Reuters (Jan. 26, 2023) Algorithmic Price Fixing Leads to Antitrust Class Action Lawsuit, Natlawreview.com (Dec. 6, 2022) Hosted by: Anora Wang, Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP and Panos Dimitrellos, Secretariat Economists

The podcast explores the debate around pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their impact on drug prices. Professor Casey Mulligan discusses the unintended consequences of regulating PBMs and the importance of competition. The chapter also examines barriers to competition in the pharmaceutical industry and the role of the FDA. The hosts conclude with lighthearted conversation and a game.

Prof. Theodosia Stavroulaki joins the show to discuss the role of competition and quality in healthcare markets. They explore conflicts between competition and quality in healthcare, antitrust cases in the US healthcare industry, and the guest's personal journey to becoming a law professor.

Bruce Kilpatrick, partner at Addleshaw Goddard LLP, discusses the UK CMA's investigation into Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Topics include the original investigation, parties' appeal to the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal, CMA's review of an amended transaction, and future of behavioral remedies in the UK.

Fiona Schaeffer, a prominent antitrust lawyer, has taken on the big job of leading the ABA Antitrust Law Section in 2023-24. In this episode, co-hosts Alicia Downey and Anora Wang interview Fiona about her goals for the year and the initiatives she is leading to explore the relationship between antitrust and consumer protection law and sustainability, as well as the impact of artificial intelligence on the law and the legal profession. Listen to this episode to get to know Fiona and, as a bonus, meet Anne Catherine Faye, the first economist appointed to serve in the important role of Counsel to the Chair. With special guests: Fiona Schaeffer, Milbank LLP and Anne Catherine Faye, Analysis Group Related Links: Upcoming ABA Antitrust Law Section events Hosted by: Alicia Downey, Downey Law LLC and Anora Wang, Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP

Damian Didden, Partner at Wachtell, joins the hosts to discuss the ongoing debate about bank consolidation and the DOJ Antitrust Division's approach to bank merger review. They explore the concerns raised by critics, the collaboration between bank regulators and the DOJ, and the need for updated merger guidelines that consider technological advancements and fintech companies.

This podcast episode delves into the world of private equity and its impact on the antitrust regulatory landscape. The hosts interview a Senior Counsel at a private equity firm who provides insights on the fundamentals of private equity and investment profiles. They also discuss the dynamics between private equity firms and portfolio companies, proposed rulemaking by the FTC and antitrust division, and offer valuable advice for young lawyers. In addition, the hosts share their love for soccer and express excitement for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup.

Exploring the impact of the FTC vs. Actavis Supreme Court decision on antitrust laws and the pharmaceutical industry. Analyzing the case, discussing reverse payment settlements and the opinions of the justices. Examining the framework and challenges of reverse payment cases. Guests share interesting facts about themselves. Casual conversation and playing the curious hat game.

Employment data is a critical component of the financial ecosystem—it's required documentation if you want to rent or buy a home, purchase a car, apply for a new job, or get a loan. As digital technology is transforming the manner in which payroll information is collected and leveraged, we're faced with important questions, the answers to which will shape the framework going forward. In this episode, we speak with Nick Lawson, General Counsel at Argyle, about all things employment data, including the current framework, what's happening with the CFPB's rulemaking on personal financial data rights, and predictions for what might be ahead. With special guest: Nicholas Lawson, General Counsel, Argyle Systems Inc. Related Links: CFPB Newsroom - CFPB Kicks Off Personal Financial Data Rights Rulemaking Argyle - Let's Make Consumer Permissions Fundamental to Payroll Data Hosted by: Jana Seidl, Senior Associate, Baker Botts LLP and Elyse Dorsey, Partner, Kirkland & Ellis LLP

On July 19, 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division and the Federal Trade Commission issued the long-awaited draft Merger Guidelines. How should you approach the draft guidelines? The DOJ Antitrust Division's Deputy Assistant Attorney Generals Andy Forman and Michael Kades speak with Melissa Maxman and Anora Wang about the background, guiding principles, and some specific languages. Listen and engage in the constructive process of commenting on the guidelines. With special guests: Andrew Forman, Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division, U.S. Department of Justice and Michael Kades, Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division, U.S. Department of Justice Related Links: DOJ-FTC 2023 Draft Merger Guidelines (July 19, 2023) "Look Mickey" by Roy Lichtenstein (National Gallery of Art) Hosted by: Melissa Maxman, Cohen & Gresser LLP and Anora Wang, Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP