A jury is about to decide the fate of Ticketmaster

Key Points:

• Over 30 states have sued Live Nation-Ticketmaster for allegedly monopolizing the concert industry by coercing venues to use its ticketing platform, with a jury set to decide if the company's practices are illegal following a federal settlement.
• The trial, which began in early March, features accusations that Live Nation leveraged its control over concert promotions and amphitheaters to maintain monopoly power, while the company argues it faces fierce competition and offers superior services.
• Key testimony included a heated phone call between Live Nation’s CEO Michael Rapino and Barclays Center’s ex-CEO, alleged internal chats bragging about overcharging fans, and expert analysis showing Ticketmaster retains more revenue per ticket than competitors.
• Live Nation’s defense highlighted the competitive nature of the industry, endorsements from artists' managers, and venue executives praising Ticketmaster’s platform, while disputing claims of monopoly power and emphasizing venue owners’ control over ticketing choices.
• The jury’s verdict could lead to significant industry changes, including a potential breakup of Live Nation, though a ruling favoring the company may reinforce the federal settlement as a preferable resolution; a lengthy appeals process is expected regardless of the outcome.