More states join antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster parent Live Nation, seek triple the damages

Core Viewpoint - Attorneys general from approximately two dozen states are pursuing treble damages against Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster for alleged monopolistic practices in the live concert industry, following an updated lawsuit originally filed in May [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Actions and Claims - The updated lawsuit allows states to seek three times the monetary damages by adding claims under federal anti-monopoly law [2]. - A total of 39 states and the District of Columbia are now involved in the lawsuit, with 10 states joining recently [3]. - New York Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the need for a new era where fans, venues, and artists are not exploited by large corporations [3]. Group 2: Market Control and Impact - Live Nation manages over 400 musical artists and controls around 60% of concert promotions at major venues [4]. - The company owns or controls more than 265 concert venues in North America and, through Ticketmaster, controls approximately 80% or more of primary ticketing for major concerts [4]. - The Justice Department highlighted the extensive reach of Live Nation and Ticketmaster within the live music ecosystem [5]. Group 3: Historical Context and Oversight - The controversial merger between Ticketmaster and Live Nation was approved by the Justice Department in 2010, with conditions aimed at preventing anti-competitive behavior [5]. - In 2020, a court extended the DOJ's oversight of the merger until 2025 due to allegations of Ticketmaster retaliating against venues that chose other ticketing companies [6]. - The DOJ claims that Live Nation has engaged in increased anti-competitive activities since the last case [6].