The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has approved Chevron's $53 billion acquisition of Hess Corporation, but imposed a condition barring Hess CEO John Hess from joining Chevron's board due to concerns regarding his communications with OPEC officials. The FTC alleges that Hess has previously supported OPEC's efforts to stabilize oil prices, raising potential anti-competitive issues should he join Chevron’s board. Two dissenting FTC commissioners criticized the decision, claiming it lacked a sound legal basis and likening it to extortion. Despite these dissenting opinions, Chevron and Hess agreed to the terms to facilitate the merger. The ruling follows a similar case involving ExxonMobil and Pioneer Natural Resources, where a CEO was also barred from the board. Hess continues to face legal challenges regarding the sale of assets in Guyana.