Swiss Probe: Travel & Casino Firms in Keyword Collusion?

Switzerland's competition commission, known as ComCo, has launched an investigation into alleged anti-competitive pacts within the travel and online casino sectors. The probe centers on suspicions that companies agreed to avoid bidding against each other for specific search engine keywords.

This practice, which involves paying search engines like Google and Bing for prominent link placement, is being scrutinized. ComCo initiated the investigation after receiving information from industry participants suggesting competitors refrained from bidding on trademarked terms.

Such conduct may constitute an unlawful restriction on competition, potentially disadvantaging consumers by hindering provider comparisons. The investigation currently targets three package holiday providers and most of Switzerland's online casinos. ComCo has indicated that search engines will be questioned, though they are not part of the investigation itself. The inquiry is anticipated to conclude within one to two years.