The Competition and Markets Authority has launched its phase 1 merger inquiry into the anticipated acquisition by FirstCash Holdings Inc. of Ramsdens Holdings PLC, notifying the parties on October 26, 2026. The statutory deadline for the phase 1 decision is December 22, 2026, subject to extension in limited circumstances.
The launch follows an invitation to comment that ran from August 20 to September 4, 2026, the first part of the regulator’s information gathering. The CMA said it has received the information it needs from the parties to complete pre-notification and begin the formal inquiry.
FirstCash is a US based operator of pawn stores and buy now pay later services, and Ramsdens is a UK listed pawnbroking, jewellery retail, foreign currency and precious metals business. The CMA case page states no price or other terms for the anticipated acquisition. The phase 1 decision will determine whether the deal is cleared or referred for an in-depth phase 2 investigation.