Taiwan’s Fair Trade Commission (FTC) is reviewing competing bids by Taishin Financial Holding Co and CTBC Financial Holding Co for Shin Kong Financial Holding Co, the FTC announced yesterday. Taishin has proposed a merger, while CTBC has launched a tender offer to acquire Shin Kong. The review process, considering factors such as market concentration and potential service enhancements, could take up to 90 days. Taishin criticised CTBC’s approach as a hostile takeover, lacking board approval from Shin Kong, whereas CTBC aims to win over shareholders directly. If successful, CTBC’s acquisition would make it Taiwan’s largest financial holding firm, with assets reaching TWD13.5tr.