Google Found Liable for Anticompetitive Practices in Digital Advertising Markets https://t.co/Cgd8ZNLeml | by @cozen_oconnor
US judge sets May 2 hearing to discuss remedies in Google digital ads lawsuit https://t.co/1CPLUvyHa7 https://t.co/1CPLUvyHa7
States Crack Down on Tech Platforms Over Child Safety https://t.co/NYDTYvAmZe | by @cozen_oconnor
U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema in the Eastern District of Virginia has found Google liable for anticompetitive conduct in the digital advertising technology sector, specifically for "willfully acquiring and maintaining monopoly power" in the markets for publisher ad servers and ad exchanges used for open-web display advertising. The ruling follows a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Department of Justice and a bipartisan coalition of 17 state attorneys general, alleging Google engaged in monopolistic practices in violation of the Sherman Act. The court ruled in Google's favor regarding advertiser ad networks, citing insufficient market definition. A hearing has been set for May 2 to discuss potential remedies that the Justice Department and states may seek to impose on Google. Further proceedings, including a proposed second antitrust remedies trial, are expected in September, with a ruling anticipated by year-end. The case is being handled on an expedited schedule, known as the "rocket docket." The outcome of the Virginia case may influence a separate antitrust case against Google in Texas, which involves both federal and state law claims, including allegations under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Plaintiffs in the Texas case have a damage model in excess of $100 billion.
