European Media Giants Sue Google for $2.3 Billion Over Adtech Practices
The lawsuit alleges Google abused its market dominance, leading to significant losses for publishers.
- Axel Springer and over two dozen European media groups have filed a $2.3 billion lawsuit against Google in Amsterdam, alleging abuse of its dominant position in the adtech market.
- The lawsuit claims Google acted as broker, auctioneer, and sales agent simultaneously in ad-buying processes, creating a conflict of interest.
- Google has dismissed the lawsuit as speculative and opportunistic, despite a previous $268 million antitrust fine over similar issues.
- The lawsuit is part of a broader context of tension between Google and news publishers over ad revenue and copyright fees.
- Other investigations and lawsuits against Google's adtech practices are underway in the UK and the US, highlighting a global scrutiny of its business model.