Paulo de Azevedo

The Autoridade da Concorrência sanctioned EDP and Sonae over a non-compete clause in the 'Plano EDP Continente' partnership. Litigation continued until 2026 concerning limitation periods and the validity of the sanctions.

State of the evidence

infringement and sanctions against the companies confirmed in litigation

Legal status — source text

fines imposed on EDP and Sonae companies; no finding of personal liability against Paulo de Azevedo

Attribution

contextual governance responsibility as Sonae CEO at the time; legal wrongdoing not attributed to him personally

Paulo de Azevedo led Sonaecom's takeover bid for Portugal Telecom, which failed in 2007. Ten years later, in light of evidence from Operação Marquês, he claimed that the 'game' had been rigged and that several parties had 'all arranged things' against the bid.

State of the evidence

hostile takeover bid and subsequent public statements documented

Legal status — source text

no personal conviction of Paulo de Azevedo

Attribution

direct responsibility for conducting the takeover bid and making public allegations; not for the alleged interference

During debate over Altice's acquisition of Media Capital, Azevedo warned that the concentration of telecommunications and media could create conditions for an 'Operação Marquês 10 vezes maior'. Altice/Meo described the remarks as defamatory and announced a criminal complaint.

State of the evidence

public remarks and Altice/Meo's announcement of a criminal complaint documented

Legal status — source text

complaint announced; no personal conviction of Paulo de Azevedo or final outcome verified

Attribution

personal responsibility for the disputed remarks