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AG Nessel Joins Federal Antitrust Lawsuit Against Live Nation, TicketMaster

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is joining the US Department of Justice (DOJ) and a bipartisan coalition of 29 states and the District of Columbia in filing an antitrust lawsuit again Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. and Ticketmaster L.L.C., owned by Live Nation. The lawsuit alleges that Live Nation has illegally monopolized the live entertainment industry, making it extremely difficult for other live music promoters to compete through anticompetitive practices, limiting consumer choice, and sky rocketing ticket prices for fans.

In a news release, Nessel said in a statement that “Michigan concertgoers deserve the chance to experience the thrill of seeing their favorite artist live, in a venue close to home, without breaking the bank,”.

The DOJ and states allege in the lawsuit that:

  • Live Nation has maintained its anticompetitive monopoly in ticketing markets by locking up venues through restrictive, long-term, exclusive agreements and threats that venues will lose access to Live Nation-controlled tours and artists if they sign with a rival ticketer. 
  • Live Nation leverages its extensive network of amphitheaters to force artists to select Live Nation as a promoter instead of its rivals, maintaining its promotions monopoly. 
  • Live Nation’s conduct has harmed fans through higher fees, lack of transparency, fewer consumer choices, and stifling innovation. 

The lawsuit is asking the court to restore competition in the live entertainment industry by prohibiting Live Nation from engaging in such practices, as well as ordering the company to divest Ticketmaster.

A copy of the complaint is available below.


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