US Department of Justice to File Competition Lawsuit Against Live Nation, Sources Confirm

The US Justice Department is gearing up to file a competition lawsuit against entertainment giant Live Nation, a move that could shake up the live entertainment industry as we know it. According to sources familiar with the matter, prosecutors are expected to challenge the business practices of Live Nation, particularly its Ticketmaster unit.

When the DOJ steps in on competition issues, it usually means some big changes are on the horizon for the company in question. In this case, the federal government will be joined by various state attorneys general in this legal challenge against Live Nation.

The lawsuit is anticipated to allege that Live Nation has been stifling competition, reducing customer choices, and ultimately driving up prices for consumers. This comes after years of investigation by the DOJ’s anti-trust division, which initially raised concerns back in 2022.

Live Nation Entertainment, formed from the merger of Live Nation and Ticketmaster in 2010, has long been under scrutiny for its dominant position in the live entertainment industry. Critics, including fans, lawmakers, artists, and competitors, have accused the company of having too much sway over the industry.

Following the news of the impending lawsuit, Live Nation’s shares took a hit, dropping over 6% in after-hours trading in New York. As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact the future of Live Nation and the wider entertainment landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.