07:11 AM EST, 11/03/2025 (MT Newswires) -- The UK's Competition and Markets Authority said Monday it is concerned the proposed merger between Shutterstock ( SSTK ) and Getty Images ( GETY ) could result in higher prices, worse terms, or lower-quality editorial and stock imagery.

The British regulatory agency said during its phase 1 investigation, it heard concerns from media companies, trade associations, and creative-sector stakeholders, including the News Media Association, whose members publish around 900 media titles in the UK and rely on licensed imagery.

Getty and Shutterstock ( SSTK ) offered a complex package of remedies at a late stage in the phase 1 process, the Competition and Markets Authority said. It added that these did not fully address its concerns.

The merger is now being referred to a phase 2 inquiry, led by an independent expert panel, for deeper investigation, the regulatory agency said.

Shutterstock ( SSTK ) said it is disappointed at the decision but will continue to engage with the agency and work with Getty Images ( GETY ) to expeditiously secure the necessary clearances.