Getty Images to Terminate Merger Agreement with Shutterstock Due to Regulatory Hurdles

Getty Images has announced its decision to terminate its merger agreement with Shutterstock, Inc. following a review by the U.K. Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The company's Board of Directors chose not to accept the CMA's condition requiring the sale of Shutterstock's editorial business for the merger to proceed.

Key Details

• Regulatory Condition: The termination was triggered by the CMA's requirement to divest Shutterstock's editorial business, a condition Getty Images was not obligated to accept under the merger terms.
• Termination Timeline: The Board of Directors unanimously resolved on June 30, 2026, to terminate the agreement following the passage of the Second Extended End Date on July 6, 2026.
• Next Steps: Following termination, the company will redeem its 10.500% senior secured notes due 2030 and plans to hire a financial advisor to explore strategic financing alternatives.