The European Commission has approved the acquisition of Ansys by Synopsys under the EU Merger Regulation, subject to compliance with commitments. The Commission examined potential impacts in global software markets, particularly in optics, photonics, and electronic design automation (EDA) tools. It identified overlapping activities could reduce competition, leading to high market concentration and prices.
To alleviate concerns, Synopsys and Ansys committed to divest certain overlapping software tools to preserve market competition. The authority will oversee purchaser approval of these businesses. After positive feedback, the Commission sees no further competition issues.
Synopsys, based in the US, specializes in EDA software for designing chips. Ansys offers simulation tools, also useful in chip design.
The merger notification occurred on 11 November 2024, under rigorous review to prevent competition impediments in the European Economic Area.