The Federal Trade Commission ordered Walmart ($WMT), Uber ($UBER) and seven other companies to provide information about their use of personal data to set prices and worker compensation. The October 28 announcement gives recipients 45 days from receipt to respond.

• Delta, United, JetBlue, Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart and Target also received orders. The Commission approved them unanimously in a 2–0 vote.
• The study examines whether prices vary between consumers based on loyalty-program participation, browsing habits or other personal information.
• For ride-sharing and delivery companies, the FTC is examining whether phone usage and past offer-acceptance history influence worker compensation.
• Companies must document the inputs, tools and procedures used to set or adjust prices and pay.
• The orders were issued under Section 6(b) of the FTC Act for a study, rather than a finding of wrongdoing. The agency can seek court enforcement of compliance.

Relevant Companies

• Walmart ($WMT) — Must provide information on pricing practices.
• Uber ($UBER) — Faces requests covering pricing and worker pay.
• DoorDash ($DASH) — Must document pricing and compensation methods.

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.