Intel and Competition

[Commentary] As American regulators slept through the past eight years, several authorities overseas decided that the Intel Corporation has been abusing its near monopoly position in the microchip market to squeeze out its smaller rival Advanced Micro Devices, constraining consumers' choice. It is now the United States' turn. The Federal Trade Commission, which opened a formal investigation into Intel's business a year ago, should decide without delay whether to pursue the company in court. The issue is not just whether Intel's tactics against A.M.D. amount to illicit behavior. The larger question is whether Washington is willing to pursue monopolies vigorously for predatory practices and foster an environment where competition and innovation can thrive.