France Clears Microsoft of Search Bias Allegations, Shares Rise
Microsoft's pre-market shares climbed 1.78% after French regulators dismissed antitrust claims from European search engine Qwant. The Autorité de la Concurrence found insufficient evidence to support allegations that Bing manipulated search results or ad placements to stifle competition.
Qwant, which relies on Microsoft's search infrastructure, had sought emergency measures against the tech giant. The ruling reinforces Bing's position as a key supplier of search results to alternative European engines, though Microsoft maintains dominant market share.
"This outcome preserves fair competition in Europe's search market," Microsoft stated in response to the decision. The case highlights ongoing tensions between platform operators and smaller competitors seeking to challenge tech incumbents.
