Margrethe Vestager has profoundly influenced competition in digital markets and shaped the development of competition policy. The incoming Competition Commissioner must build on Vestager’s legacy to strengthen both competition and European competitiveness.

The Commission should continue to accept referrals from Member States and consider revising its merger policy by introducing mandatory notification of mergers in certain sectors and an ex-post control of mergers.

The DMA has reshaped the digital landscape in Europe and beyond but has also introduced challenges. The Commission should deepen collaboration with national authorities, non-European countries, and gatekeepers to ensure a more effective framework.

The Commission employs a stick-and-carrot approach, demonstrating its commitment to enforcing regulations while engaging in dialogue. It should balance maintaining regulatory intervention's credibility while fostering constructive dialogue through an incentive framework.