Instructor(s): Michal S. Gal

Note: The add/drop date for this course is Monday, January 5 at 10:00 PM.

Course Location: Please see the "Intensive Course Schedule" under Schedules and Timetables (http://www.law.utoronto.ca/academic-programs/schedules).

Note: Attendance at intensive courses is mandatory for the duration of the course.  

Digital markets are affecting many aspects of our lives, transforming products, services, terms of trade, and even employment markets. The rising importance of big data, algorithmic decision-making, and online platforms create complex regulatory challenges for ensuring that the digital markets increase welfare. Competition law has an important role to play in this digital eco-system. Accordingly, this course explores the complex challenges that digital markets pose to competition law. To do so, we will first analyze the unique characteristics of the digital environment and how they affect market dynamics. We will then analyze the main challenges to competition law, including coordination through algorithmic interactions, market power based on big data, abusive conduct by platforms and intermediaries, and defining markets and market power in digital eco-systems. It will also explore the intersection between competition, consumer protection and privacy, which is raising important institutional questions for the allocation and coordination of regulatory responses.  This course will explore global developments in this complex and fast-moving field. Drawing on the latest literature and major cases such as those brought against Google, Meta and Amazon in different jurisdictions around the world, it will equip students to critically engage with the challenges posed for businesses, policymakers, regulators and law enforcers in digital markets.

Evaluation
Students will be evaluated based on a final paper of 2500 to 3000 words (90%), and 10% participation in class discussion. Papers must be delivered to the Records Office by 4:00 p.m. on February 2, 2026.
Academic year
2025 - 2026

At a Glance

Second Term
Credits
1
Hours
12

Enrolment

Maximum
22

20 JD
2 LLM/SJD/MSL/SJD U

Schedule

Monday, January 5, 2026: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Tuesday, January 6, 2026: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Wednesday, January 7, 2026: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Thursday, January 8, 2026: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Friday, January 9, 2026: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm