The Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a (the “HSR Act”), requires parties that are contemplating a merger or the acquisition of assets, voting securities and other non-corporate interests above certain dollar thresholds to notify the Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”) and the Department of Justice Antitrust Division of the proposed transaction, and obtain regulatory approval, prior to closing the transaction.

These thresholds are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the U.S. gross national product. Earlier this month, the FTC announced new thresholds for 2014. These new thresholds will become effective on February 24, and will apply to all transactions closed after that date...