Compaq Clears Hurdle

Compaq Computer Corp.’s $8.48 billion acquisition of Digital Equipment Corp. got the OK from the European Commission, clearing a hurdle to the computer industry’s biggest takeover.

The commission, the agency that enforces EU antitrust policy, cleared the acquisition without conditions.

Regulators have investigated whether the combination of No. 1 personal computer maker Compaq with Digital would limit rivals’ access to the burgeoning market for personal computers and services.

The takeover still needs U.S. Federal Trade Commission approval.