A federal judge ruled that Google holds an illegal monopoly in internet search and ad markets. The court is set to decide on potential remedies, which may include forcing Google to sell its widely-used web browser, Chrome. Competitors like Perplexity have expressed interest in acquiring Chrome, following a $35 billion bid from Search.com, supported by JP Morgan and private equity firms. Google argues that divesting Chrome could lead to obsolescence and increased cybersecurity risks for users.
A court last year ruled that Google had violated antitrust laws by maintaining a monopoly on internet search. A second ruling in April found Google also monopolized open-web digital ad markets.
Chrome, a free web browser developed by Google, is an important distribution tool for Google Search and its other services. It also provides insights into users' search habits and is the most popular web browser on the market.
Being forced to sell Chrome would be an undeniable blow to Google and its parent company, Alphabet Inc. Analysts at Barclays said such an action could be a black swan scenario for Google stock, sparking an estimated 15% to 25% decline.
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