Judge Rejects $30 Billion Visa, Mastercard Swipe Fee Settlement

Merchants argue the deal fails to address excessive fees and market control by credit card giants.

The settlement aimed to reduce swipe fees by at least 0.04 percentage points for three years.
Merchants and trade groups opposed the deal, citing insufficient relief and continued high fees.
The judge's decision could lead to a renegotiated settlement or a trial.
Visa and Mastercard expressed disappointment with the ruling.
The case stems from a 2005 lawsuit alleging antitrust violations by the credit card companies.