A New York jury on Thursday concluded that Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation illegally monopolized significant portions of the U.S. live events market.
The entertainment conglomerate, which runs tens of thousands of concerts each year and has been the world’s leading ticket seller since 2010, was found to have abused its market power by tying venue access to the use of its promotion services.
Jurors determined Live Nation dominated ticketing at more than 200 major venues and dozens of large amphitheaters, effectively blocking venues from using competing ticket sellers. The verdict follows a multi-state lawsuit brought during the Biden administration after complaints from concertgoers; days into the trial, the Justice Department under the Trump administration moved to settle its own claims. Some states joined the proposed $280 million settlement, but more than 30 states continued with the case.
New York Attorney General Letitia James said the jury confirmed long-standing concerns that Live Nation and Ticketmaster were breaking the law and costing consumers money. California Attorney General Rob Bonta described the decision as a historic win for artists, fans, and venues. Bonta also said jurors found Live Nation overcharged consumers for tickets sold between May 2020 and 2024.
Penalties have not yet been set. States are expected to seek damages and could push for structural remedies, including forced sales of assets or venues, when the judge determines penalties. Live Nation responded that the verdict “is not the last word on this matter,” and noted potential damages are under $350 million. The company also said the outcome would not differ materially from a March settlement with the Justice Department, which required Live Nation to open parts of its ticketing platform to competitors and allow other promoters to stage events at certain Live Nation venues.
The jury’s decision will not provide immediate relief to frustrated concertgoers, but it may lead to significant changes in how tickets are sold and how venues are managed if courts impose remedies. Pending motions and appeals will determine whether the liability and damages rulings stand.
Separately, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission has filed its own case against Ticketmaster, alleging deceptive ticket resale practices, adding another legal front for the company to address.