The CMA accepted Spreadex's proposed sale of Sporting Index to address competition concerns in the licensed online sports spread betting market. Both companies provide sports fixed odds betting and sports spread betting services in the UK.

Sports spread betting allows customers to bet on various outcomes of sporting events, potentially resulting in higher wins or losses compared to fixed-odds betting. The CMA found that the acquisition of Sporting Index by Spreadex created a monopoly, leading to reduced competition, potentially impacting user experience, product range, and prices for consumers.

The CMA's independent panel concluded that the sale remedy proposed by Spreadex, with modifications and enhancements, is sufficient to restore competition in the market. Spreadex now has 12 weeks to sell Sporting Index to a CMA-approved buyer.

Richard Feasey, chair of the independent panel, emphasized the importance of competition in sports spread betting to drive customer experience, choice, and competitive pricing. The decision aims to offer consumers the option to choose between two firms for a better user experience and pricing.