A New York federal judge ruled that USA Today Co., Daily Mail General and Trust Plc, and a class of major publishers can pursue more than $3.2 billion in damages against Alphabet Inc.'s Google for monopolizing advertising technology markets.
The court decision clears the way for large publishers to seek compensation for alleged harm caused by Google's control over ad-tech infrastructure. The ruling represents a significant development in ongoing antitrust scrutiny of the search giant's dominance in digital advertising.
Google controls multiple layers of the digital ad ecosystem, including tools used by advertisers to buy ads, platforms where publishers sell ad space, and the exchange that connects buyers and sellers. Plaintiffs argue this vertical integration allows Google to favor its own interests and disadvantage competitors and publishing partners.
The damages claim reflects growing pressure on Google's core business. The company generated approximately $307 billion in revenue during 2023, with the vast majority coming from advertising. Ad-tech services represent a substantial portion of that advertising revenue.
This case joins other major antitrust challenges facing Google. The Department of Justice has pursued separate litigation challenging Google's search monopoly and advertising practices. State attorneys general have also filed complaints related to the company's market conduct.
The judge's ruling allows the case to proceed to the damages phase, but does not determine whether Google actually violated antitrust laws. That determination will come through further litigation. The $3.2 billion figure represents what plaintiffs claim they are entitled to recover if they ultimately prevail.
Google has maintained that its ad-tech services operate in competitive markets and benefit publishers and advertisers through efficiency and transparency. The company typically appeals unfavorable rulings in antitrust cases.
The outcome of this litigation could establish precedent for how courts evaluate monopoly claims in digital advertising and influence regulatory approaches to big tech companies worldwide. Similar antitrust actions against Google's ad-tech business are pending in other jurisdictions, including the European Union.
New York City's subscription cancellation law is now in effect, requiring companies to make it as easy to cancel subscriptions as it is to sign up. The rule applies to all businesses operating in the city.
Micron's CEO warned that memory chip supply will become significantly constrained in 2027 and 2028 compared to 2026, signaling potential market shifts ahead.
Micron has filed a US lawsuit against Chinese memory maker YMTC, alleging the company systematically recruited key engineers and then used their patents in litigation against Micron.
New York City's click-to-cancel rule takes effect Thursday, requiring businesses to make subscription cancellation as simple as signup. The city is the first municipality in America to enforce this consumer protection measure.