Jury deliberations are underway in an antitrust case brought by 34 states against Live Nation Entertainment and its Ticketmaster unit. The states allege the companies are monopolizing the live music industry and inflating ticket prices.
During the five-week trial in Manhattan federal court, states argued Live Nation controls 86% of the concert market and 73% of the overall market including sports events. Live Nation defended itself, asserting it is a “fierce competitor” and that success isn’t illegal.
The states accuse Live Nation of stifling competition, while the company maintains it simply dominates a booming concert business. The Justice Department reached a settlement with Live Nation last month, securing concessions regarding ticket sales at its amphitheaters.
After beginning deliberations, the jury requested a review of specific testimony presented during the trial. The case proceeds with the states following the federal government’s settlement.