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Teresa Ribera has completed her first year at the helm of the European Commission’s competition directorate (“DG COMP”). It was a year in which DG COMP has been busy working on possible amendments to key competition policies and guidance. But it was also a year that ended with questions unanswered regarding DG COMP’s strategic direction for the next four years.2026 could be the year in which we gain greater clarity on major policies and priorities at DG COMP, in particular in the regulation of M&A. In this article, we examine the strategic decisions that could be taken over the next 12 months, looking ahead to the draft revised merger guidelines and at the evolving relationship between DG COMP and its major international counterparts, notably in the US. We also consider key updates regarding the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation – which is attracting greater political attention after a notable case in 2025. And, as an addition to our annual look-ahead article, we cast our eye to the recently-revised merger remedies guidance in the EU’s former Member State, the UK.

Our January 2026 employment law update looks at the tribunal case of Peggie v Fife Health Board, which explores the regulation of single sex spaces in light of the judgment in For Women Scotland. We also include a news round-up including developments in implementing the Employment Rights Act 2025 and the latest on Employment Tribunals, including use of AI and listing delays.

A recent decision by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Court in  Oswin v (1) Otila (2) Ondray [2025] DIFC ARB 032 (16 September 2025) has provided welcome clarity on the supervisory jurisdiction of the DIFC Court over arbitrations seated in the DIFC.