Movies

DOJ, FTC open inquiry into the concert industry

BBG News

The Departments of Justice and Commerce are launching an open investigation into the business methods and consumer concerns within the live music sector.

A month ago, an executive order was issued by President Trump, suggested by Kid Rock, aimed at tackling ticket resellers. This order requested feedback from various sectors of the music industry and instructed federal agencies to do so. The directive asked for a report to be submitted by both federal departments within six months.

In its statement, the Department of Justice explained that the Executive Order instructs the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to make sure competition laws are effectively enforced within the concert and entertainment sector. The Executive Order also mandates the FTC to diligently enforce the Better Online Tickets Sales Act. Furthermore, it requires the Attorney General, along with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Chairman of the FTC, to submit a report detailing suggestions for regulations or legislation that can safeguard consumers in this industry.

The entities are asking for the public’s input regarding any unjust or monopolistic activities and behaviors found within the live concert and entertainment industry,” it stated further.

Music

In simpler terms, the Department of Justice, along with California and several other states, filed a lawsuit against Live Nation (the company behind Ticketmaster) over suspected antitrust activities. These activities, if proven, might compel the company to split into separate entities.

Assisting Attorney General Abigail Slater from the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice stated, “Ideally, competitive live entertainment markets should benefit both artists and audiences. We will persistently monitor this market to discover instances where stronger application of antitrust regulations could stimulate more competition. This increased competition may lead to reduced ticket prices for fans and fairer remuneration for artists.

In simpler terms, FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson stated, “Many people in America feel they can’t afford live entertainment due to scalpers, automated programs, and other unjust practices. Now, their concerns are being addressed. President Trump has made it clear that those who manipulate fans and disrupt fair trading will not be allowed. The FTC is glad to contribute to this commitment and work towards markets that are fair and competitive for regular citizens.

I, as a music enthusiast, have the exciting opportunity to share my personal insights and experiences regarding the live music market over the next two months. These valuable comments can be submitted directly through Regulations.gov, offering us all a chance to contribute to shaping the future of this vibrant scene.

Music

The lawsuit alleges that Live Nation deceived investors by stating they don’t participate in actions that would warrant antitrust lawsuits.

Approximately one year has passed since the DOJ and forty states filed an extensive antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation, alleging that they were operating as a monopoly and misusing their combined vertical structure following their merger with Ticketmaster. The lawsuit aims to dissolve the company.

Dan Wall, executive vice president for corporate and regulatory affairs at Live Nation Entertainment, stated in reference to the lawsuit: “It’s illogical to assert that Live Nation and Ticketmaster hold monopolistic power.” He further added, “The DOJ is not addressing consumers’ genuine issues. This is why public trust in government has dwindled – they appear to be resolving problems for people when in reality, they are catering to a specific group of political interests instead.

Music

For Subscribers

How Ticketmaster became the most hated name in music

As a movie buff, I’ve always been privy to the ongoing grumbles about Ticketmaster, echoed by fans, political figures, and creative minds alike. However, industry insiders suggest that some of this frustration might have been unwarranted all along.

The intricate issues surrounding ways to address exorbitant resale ticket prices, unscrupulous ticket-reselling (scalping), and anticompetitive practices among major concert promoters such as Live Nation are challenging. Although the Department of Justice’s legal action against these entities was initiated during the Biden administration, this recent announcement indicates that regulatory attempts to tackle these issues will persist in some form under President Trump.

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2025-05-08 02:01

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