The Netherlands' parliament has voted to extend the powers of the Dutch Consumer and Market Authority (ACM) to scrutinise smaller mergers and acquisitions, allowing it to block deals where a combined turnover exceeds €50 million if market dominance is a concern. The move, backed by a large parliamentary majority through a bill proposed by MP Julian Bushoff, is aimed at curbing the gradual consolidation seen in sectors such as childcare, healthcare, and veterinary services, where chains of acquisitions have been linked to higher prices and poorer service. The change also targets so-called