In brief
In an ongoing antitrust case, 34 states allege that Live Nation Entertainment, including its subsidiary Ticketmaster, holds a monopoly in the live music industry, resulting in inflated ticket prices. Conversely, Live Nation argues that there is substantial competition in the market. As jury deliberations commence, the dispute highlights the complexities of antitrust law and market dominance in a thriving concert industry.
NEW YORK (AP) — Jury deliberations began Friday in an antitrust case pitting 34 states against the concert giant Live Nation Entertainment. The states argue in the civil case that the company and its ticketing arm, Ticketmaster, are monopolizing the industry and driving up prices to see live music. Live Nation contends there is more competition than ever and that the company plays fair amid a booming concert business in the U.S. Shortly after beginning deliberations, the jury in Manhattan federal court communicated to the judge its desire to review specific testimony from the five-week trial. The states continue their legal battle after the federal government reached a settlement last month, claiming significant concessions from Live Nation, especially in ticket sales at many of the company's amphitheaters. During closing arguments, a lawyer for the states claimed Live Nation controls 86% of the concert market and 73% when including sports events. In response, Live Nation's attorney acknowledged the company's leading status in the industry but emphasized that success does not equate to violating antitrust laws in the United States.
