10 More States Join DOJ's Antitrust Lawsuit Against Live Nation, Expanding Case to 40 States
The Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation has gained significant momentum with 10 additional states joining the legal action, bringing the total number of state plaintiffs to 40 (including Washington, D.C.).
The newly joined states include Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Vermont. An amended complaint, now 167 pages (up from the original 128), provides more detailed allegations of anticompetitive practices.
Concert crowd at Live Nation event
Key additions to the amended complaint include:
- Enhanced details about Live Nation's alleged anticompetitive relationship with Oak View Group
- Further examination of Ticketmaster's features that potentially inhibit competition
- Additional evidence of consumer harm through non-negotiable fees and limited comparison shopping options
- New visual resources and details about agreements, including the 2018 deal with 313 Presents
Concert stage with bright lighting
Live Nation has responded to the amended complaint, stating that it contains nothing new and won't address core fan concerns about ticket prices, service fees, and access to popular shows.
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 approximately 15% year-over-year.
US Department of Justice building exterior
Michael Rapino in black shirt