Digest: Meta’s Antitrust Trial over Social Media Dominance Kicks Off; US Tariff Exemptions for Electronics

In today’s digest, we cover Meta’s landmark antitrust trial over its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, Trump’s new tariffs, and Havas’ strong Q1 performance.

Meta’s Antitrust Trial over Social Media Dominance Begins

Meta’s antitrust trial over its social media dominance began on Monday. The Federal Trade Commission – the US competition and consumer watchdog – alleges that it illegally maintained its dominance in social networking by acquiring Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014.

 It argues that Meta used a “buy or bury” strategy to eliminate competition, creating a monopoly in the social media space. 

The case, being heard by Judge James Boasberg of the US District Court for the District of Columbia, marks a significant moment in the evolution of antitrust law, as regulators seek to apply existing legal frameworks to the tech sector’s acquisition tactics.

Trump Exempts Key Electronics from New Tariffs

The Trump administration announced late Friday that it will exempt smartphones, computers, and other consumer electronics from a new round of tariffs. This would offer a significant relief for tech companies like Apple and Dell, potentially easing pressure on the prices of such products. According to US Customs and Border Protection, the exemptions include a wide range of electronics modems, routers, flash drives, and more that are largely manufactured outside the US, particularly in China, and would have otherwise been impacted by the escalating trade war.

Although there has been some relief from tariffs, certain duties on electronics and smartphones remain in place including a 20% tariff introduced earlier this year, linked to China’s alleged involvement in the fentanyl trade. Additionally, the administration is weighing further tariffs on semiconductors.

Havas Delivers Solid Q1 Performance

Havas has reported a strong start to 2025, achieving organic growth of 2.1% in the first quarter, in line with its full year targets. The company also reported growth of 5.2%, reflecting the positive impact of recent acquisitions and favourable currency effects.

Chairman and CEO Yannick Bolloré described the company as being in “great shape”, attributing the performance to continued business momentum particularly in North America and Latin America as well as the success of its bolt on acquisition strategy.

Bolloré added that Havas remains focused on its 2025 objectives, while closely monitoring the geopolitical and economic landscape to ensure it can respond swiftly and effectively in support of its clients and teams.