Live Nation CFO Confident in Victory Over US Government Antitrust Lawsuit
Live Nation's CFO Joe Berchtold expressed confidence about the company's position in the ongoing antitrust lawsuit filed by the Justice Department and 39 state attorneys general against Live Nation and Ticketmaster. Speaking at a Bank of America conference, Berchtold stated firmly, "I expect we're going to prevail."
Joe Berchtold at Live Nation event
The legal timeline involves discovery and depositions throughout 2025, with a potential trial beginning in early 2026 if no resolution is reached beforehand. Berchtold described Ticketmaster as a "nice complement" to Live Nation's business, emphasizing that both entities operate independently.
Regarding current business performance, Berchtold reported strong ticket sales with no signs of consumer pullback. He addressed criticism about high-profile events like Taylor Swift's 'Eras Tour' and the Oasis reunion, acknowledging the challenge of managing fan expectations when demand far exceeds supply.
While discussing transparency, Berchtold emphasized the company's support for artist control over ticket distribution and better communication with fans. "We can absolutely do a better job around setting up expectations in terms of what fans should be seeing," he noted.
Ticketmaster has recently implemented all-in pricing displays in required jurisdictions, though this practice isn't universal across all markets. The outcome of the DOJ's investigation will likely influence future pricing transparency policies.
US Department of Justice building exterior
Michael Rapino in black shirt