The Department of Justice will announce an antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation, Ticketmasters parent company that also owns venues and promotes artists’ tours, the Washington Post reports, another step in President Biden’s war against inflated consumer prices and junk fees.
Founded in 2010, Live Nation had total revenues of $22.7 billion in 2023, and its annual report stated it controlled more than 330 venues worldwide, including 150 in North America. Competing ticketing agents and promoters have frequently complained about limited access to or being charges excessive fees for booking Live Nation venues. Consumers experienced the impact of the monopoly thanks to ticket fees for some concerts that can run to $25 or higher for some venues and acts.