NEW YORK \u2014 A federal jury ruled that Live Nation-Ticketmaster operated as an illegal monopoly, a decision that could reshape the live events industry. <\/p>\n
The verdict came after New York and more than 30 other states and Washington, D.C., argued that the decades-old merger between Live Nation and Ticketmaster hurt consumers. Critics said the company charged unreasonable venue and service fees, often tacked on at the end of transactions. <\/p>\n
Lee Hepner, senior legal counsel at American Economic Liberties Project, was among those who testified about the company\u2019s market control. The jury agreed that consumers were hurt by the lack of competition in the live events market.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe easiest and simplest way to rid Live Nation of its power over the live events ecosystem is to separate Live Nation, which controls venues, artist management and concert promotion, from its ticketing service, Ticketmaster,\u201d Hepner said. <\/p>\n
The case gained attention after widespread complaints during Taylor Swift\u2019s Eras Tour ticket sales. Many fans were unable to purchase tickets due to sky-high prices and persistent Ticketmaster website troubles. <\/p>\n
\u201cThirty-three states have come out victorious and New York was one of those states and our attorney general has said this is a big win for consumers. But consumers will not see immediate changes, correct?\u201d News10NBC\u2019s Deanna Dewberry asked. <\/p>\n
\u201cRight. The relief is still on the horizon,\u201d Hepner said. \u201cThe case will now go to a remedies proceeding where a judge will decide what to do about Live Nation\u2019s illegal monopoly.\u201d <\/p>\n
Live Nation and Ticketmaster are expected to appeal, which means the case conclusion could be a year away. Still, experts say this legal victory gives fans and artists something to celebrate.<\/p>\n
Statement from Live Nation Entertainment<\/p>\n
\u201cThe jury\u2019s verdict is not the last word on this matter. Pending motions will determine whether the liability and damages rulings stand.<\/p>\n