The World's Most Hated Ticket Company Is Finally Being Forced to Change

"The Trump admin just accepted a settlement with Live Nation for less than 1% of their revenue last year. It's nothing like what we were looking for when the Biden Admin opened this case. Consumers have nowhere else to turn and they are getting screwed by the only option they do."

"The whole outcome is mighty unusual-and unfinished. The judge overseeing the case was not made aware of the settlement negotiations, and has yet to sign off. Meanwhile, a majority of the states that joined the federal government as plaintiffs have objected to this deal, and the judge has given them permission to continue fighting their case next week should they fail to reach their own settlements with Live Nation."

"However disappointing the initial result may be for everyone who desired some accountability for Ticketmaster's myriad sins (crashing during 'Eras' tour sales, overcharging venues and attendees, teaming up with scalpers), the fight is not over. And the current deal also comes with notable concessions that clamp down on some of Live Nation's most risible business practices."

The Justice Department announced a settlement in its antitrust case against Live Nation and Ticketmaster just one week into trial. Under the agreement, Ticketmaster remains a subsidiary of Live Nation's corporate parent, which controls performance venues, music festivals, and event promoters. The settlement penalty represents less than 1% of Live Nation's annual revenue, disappointing those seeking accountability for Ticketmaster's problematic practices including website crashes, overcharging, and scalper coordination. The presiding judge was not informed of settlement negotiations and has not yet approved the deal. A majority of state plaintiffs have objected and retained the right to continue litigation. Despite the disappointing federal outcome, the settlement includes concessions limiting Live Nation's business practices, and public opposition to Ticketmaster continues driving competitive alternatives.

Read at Slate Magazine