China's antitrust regulator is reportedly preparing to launch a Phase 2 investigation into Texas Instruments' planned $7.5 billion acquisition of Silicon Labs. This development signals deeper scrutiny from Chinese authorities and introduces significant uncertainty into the timeline for the deal, which was anticipated to close in the first half of 2027.
A Phase 2 review is a more detailed and lengthy process than a preliminary assessment and can lead to regulators demanding concessions or, in rare cases, blocking a deal. News of the potential extended review has put pressure on Silicon Labs' stock. The acquisition, announced in early February 2026, aims to combine TI's manufacturing scale with Silicon Labs' extensive wireless connectivity portfolio.