Live Nation Antitrust Trial Ends as States Call Company a 'Monopolist'
A federal antitrust trial against Live Nation ended with closing arguments in Manhattan court. Lawyers for 34 states accused the concert company of being a monopolist that uses its Ticketmaster division to crush competition and raise ticket prices.
The Justice Department and 34 states wrapped up their antitrust case against Live Nation Entertainment in federal court in Manhattan. The states argue that Live Nation uses its massive size and Ticketmaster ticketing arm to control the concert industry.
During closing arguments, prosecutor Jonathan Kessler called Live Nation "a monopolist who views itself to be above the law." He told the jury the company suffocates competition and drives up ticket prices for concertgoers across the country.
Live Nation's lawyers pushed back hard against the monopoly claims. They argued the company is simply a "fierce competitor" that got big by being good at its business, not by breaking antitrust laws.
Judge Arun Subramanian gave final instructions to the jury, who will now decide whether Live Nation violated federal competition laws. The case could reshape how Americans buy concert tickets if the government wins.
If Live Nation loses, it could be forced to break up or change how it sells concert tickets. This could mean lower prices and more choices when you buy tickets to see your favorite artists perform.
The jury will deliberate and reach a verdict on whether Live Nation violated antitrust laws.
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