Jury Finds Live Nation Illegally Monopolised Ticketing Market

Mintesinot Nigussie

A US federal jury has ruled that Live Nation operated as an illegal monopoly in live entertainment and ticketing, a decision that could lead to the company being forced to restructure or separate from its subsidiary Ticketmaster.

The verdict found that Ticketmaster overcharged customers by 1.72 US dollars per ticket over several years. That figure is expected to be used in calculating potential damages. The case originated from a lawsuit filed in May 2024 by the US Department of Justice.

Although the department later withdrew after reaching a settlement, more than 30 states continued to pursue the case. Judge Arun Subramanian will determine remedies, which could include financial penalties as well as structural measures aimed at restoring competition.

Live Nation said the ruling was not final and confirmed it has filed motions challenging aspects of the proceedings. The company maintained during the trial that it faces strong competition from other promoters, venues and sports organisations.

The jury’s findings come amid broader scrutiny of market concentration in the live events industry. The ruling is expected to influence competition in the industry, with potential implications for ticket pricing, access to venues and opportunities for smaller operators.

Overall, the jury’s decision that Live Nation illegally monopolised the ticketing market marks a significant development in antitrust enforcement in the live entertainment sector.