Yazılar

Turkey Probes Google Over Advertising Practices

Turkish Competition Board has launched an investigation into Google and its parent Alphabet Inc. over concerns related to advertising and billing practices.

The probe will examine whether Google’s commercial conduct in its online advertising services violates Turkish competition laws. Authorities are focusing on how the company charges advertisers and advertising agencies, as well as whether its billing systems and practices create unfair market conditions.

Regulators have not yet concluded whether any violations occurred, but the investigation signals increasing scrutiny of major technology firms in digital advertising markets.

Google has faced similar regulatory pressure globally, as governments assess the dominance of large platforms in online advertising and their relationships with clients and partners.

The outcome of the investigation could lead to fines or regulatory changes if authorities determine that competition rules have been breached.

Meta Faces EU Setback

Meta has encountered a legal setback as an adviser to Europe’s top court supported regulators in a dispute over information requests tied to antitrust investigations.

The opinion backed the authority of EU competition officials to request necessary documentation during probes into digital platforms.

Meta had challenged the scope of these requests, arguing they were excessive and raised privacy concerns.

The adviser concluded that the regulator’s access was limited and accompanied by safeguards, suggesting no disproportionate intrusion.

While the opinion is non-binding, it is often influential in shaping final rulings.

The case highlights ongoing tensions between major technology firms and European oversight bodies.

Court Allows Antitrust Case Against Live Nation

A U.S. federal judge has rejected Live Nation Entertainment’s request to dismiss a lawsuit accusing the company of attempting to dominate the live concert market.

The decision allows the antitrust case, brought by the Department of Justice along with multiple states, to move toward trial. Jury selection is expected to begin in early March.

Authorities allege that Live Nation has used its influence across ticketing, venues and promotions to limit competition and potentially harm both performers and audiences. The lawsuit follows long-standing concerns about the company’s market position, particularly after its 2010 acquisition of Ticketmaster.

The judge ruled that there is sufficient dispute over whether Live Nation leveraged its market power in ways that restricted competition, allowing key claims to proceed.

However, some allegations related to concert promotion and booking services were dismissed.

Live Nation has denied any misuse of market dominance and maintains that its practices did not negatively affect consumers.

The case marks a significant step in ongoing scrutiny of competition within the live entertainment sector.