DEVELOPING: Competition watchdog launches probe into eight firms over alleged online price fixing.

Breaking News: Competition Watchdog Launches Probe into Eight Firms Over Online Price Fixing The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched investigations into eight companies over alleged online price fixing. The companies being probed are StubHub, Viagogo, AA Driving School, BSM Driving School, Gold's Gym, Wayfair, Appliances Direct, and Marks Electrical. The CMA has opened these cases under new consumer protection powers, following a major review that began in April. The review looked at over 400 businesses across the economy to assess whether rules on price transparency are being met. The CMA is also writing to 100 businesses to express concerns about their use of additional fees and sales tactics. CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell emphasized the importance of online price transparency, saying "it's crucial that people are able to shop online with confidence, knowing that the price they see is the price they'll pay, and any sales are genuine." These investigations are the first to be launched by the CMA under its new powers. The outcome of these cases will have significant implications for the online retail industry. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.