US judge approves HPE’s US$14bil takeover of Juniper despite concerns

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has secured approval to acquire Juniper Networks for US$14 billion, despite concerns raised by the US Department of Justice. The federal judge ruling, published on Wednesday, acknowledged potential reduced competition but stated the court lacked authority to prevent the merger. The judge also identified two violations of the Tunney Act, which requires judges to ensure settlements serve the public interest.

HPE failed to disclose lobbying efforts targeting the CIA and Pentagon, while the Trump administration withheld information about alternative remedies. Despite these violations, the judge approved the settlement as the concealed information was eventually revealed by 12 states and the Columbia district. California Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed disappointment with the decision, stating Americans deserve better.