EU Says Firm Tilted Market in Its Favour
The European Union has imposed a €2.95 billion fine on Google after concluding that the company misused its dominance in the digital advertising industry. Regulators said Google gave its own ad exchange and publishing services an unfair edge, undermining competition and limiting choices for advertisers and media organisations.
Compliance Plan Required Within 60 Days
Officials in Brussels have ordered Google to deliver a corrective plan within two months. If the proposed measures fail to resolve the issues, regulators warned they may resort to stronger interventions, potentially including the breakup of parts of Google’s advertising business. The company announced it would challenge the ruling, arguing its products help support the broader advertising ecosystem.
Mixed Response Across the Industry
Publishing associations welcomed the decision as a milestone in restoring balance to the ad market, while advertising firms suggested it could foster a more competitive environment. The overall impact, however, will depend on the reforms Google puts forward and the results of its legal battle in the EU courts.
