DOJ Antitrust Lawsuit Against Live Nation Expands as 10 More States Join, Now Totaling 40 States
The Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation has gained additional support from 10 new states, bringing the total number of state plaintiffs to 40, including Washington, D.C. The amended complaint expands on the original allegations of anticompetitive practices.
New states joining the lawsuit include Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Vermont.
Concert crowd at Live Nation event
Key updates in the 167-page amended complaint:
- Deeper examination of Live Nation's relationship with Oak View Group
- More detailed analysis of Ticketmaster's features and their impact on competition
- Enhanced focus on consumer harm through non-negotiable fees and lack of alternatives
- Additional visual evidence and details about agreements (including 313 Presents)
Concert stage with bright lighting
Live Nation's response maintains that the amended complaint offers nothing new and won't address core fan concerns about ticket prices, service fees, and show access.
Despite the legal challenges, Live Nation's stock (NYSE: LYV) remains strong, trading at $96.53 per share - up 1.4% daily, 5.4% weekly, and 15% year-over-year.
US Department of Justice building exterior
Michael Rapino in black shirt
The lawsuit seeks to unwind the 2010 merger between Live Nation and Ticketmaster, with the case's outcome remaining uncertain as legal proceedings continue.
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