A New York jury has ruled that Live Nation and its Ticketmaster division engaged in monopolistic practices by controlling major concert venues and limiting competition. The verdict marks a significant legal victory for multiple states seeking to address rising ticket prices and lack of consumer choice. While Live Nation reached a $280 million settlement with the Department of Justice earlier this year, the states pursuing further legal action remain committed to challenging the company's dominance.

This case, after less than a week of deliberations, could lead to billions in damages based on the jury’s calculation of $1.72 per ticket sold in the past six years at certain venues. The judge will now determine the total amount of damages and penalties. Live Nation, which owns or controls hundreds of U.S. venues, has denied claims of monopoly status and indicated it may appeal the verdict. The company also highlighted that the damages apply to a limited scope of tickets, and estimates these damages to be below $150 million, with potential trebled amounts. The ruling could also prompt a breakup of the company's vast live entertainment empire.