BEVERLY HILLS, 19 February 2026 – Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is under intense scrutiny today as the company prepares to release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results. The announcement comes at a pivotal moment, as a United States federal court just hours ago denied the entertainment giant’s bid to dismiss a Department of Justice (DOJ) antitrust lawsuit, effectively clearing the way for a high-stakes trial scheduled for March 2026.
Court Ruling and Antitrust Developments
In a significant legal blow to the Ticketmaster parent company, a judge has ruled that the DOJ’s monopoly lawsuit will proceed to trial. The case, originally launched in 2024, alleges that Live Nation operates an illegal monopoly that has stifled competition and driven up ticket prices for consumers globally. While Live Nation had sought to have the case dismissed, the court’s decision today ensures that the company’s business practices will face a public judicial review.
The legal landscape is further complicated by recent shifts within the DOJ. Following the departure of assistant attorney general Gail Slater last week, there has been widespread speculation regarding a potential settlement. Some reports suggest that the current administration may be more open to a “workaround” or a smaller divestiture rather than a complete break-up of the Live Nation and Ticketmaster merger.
Financial Performance and Market Outlook
Despite the legal headwinds, Live Nation continues to report robust financial demand. The company is expected to announce its Q4 2025 results after the market closes today, 19 February. Analysts are forecasting a loss per share of approximately $1.00, though revenue remains strong following a record-breaking third quarter in 2025, which saw earnings of A$13.05 billion (US$8.5 billion), an 11% increase year-on-year.
Investors are closely watching the earnings call for updates on global fan attendance and venue investments, which have been the primary drivers of growth over the past year. However, the stock has underperformed the broader market recently as the “antitrust storm clouds” continue to gather.
Live Nation Entertainment: Company Profile
Live Nation Entertainment is the world’s largest live entertainment company, formed by the 2010 merger of Live Nation and Ticketmaster. It operates through a vertically integrated model that controls nearly every aspect of the concert experience.
| Core Business Segment | Primary Functions |
|---|---|
| Concert Promotion | Global tour management, artist promotion, and event production. |
| Ticketing (Ticketmaster) | Primary and secondary ticket sales, software, and marketing. |
| Venue Operations | Ownership and management of amphitheatres, clubs, and stadiums. |
| Artist Management | Direct representation and career development for international performers. |
| Sponsorship & Advertising | Corporate partnerships and on-site brand activations. |
Public Sentiment and Industry Impact
Public opinion remains sharply divided. While the company’s “Living for Live” study suggests that live music is a top priority for 40,000 surveyed fans across 15 countries, social media sentiment is increasingly hostile toward the company’s pricing models. In Australia, industry veterans like Peter Garrett have called for stronger regulation, citing the impact of global giants on the local music ecosystem and the transparency of “hidden fees.”
The upcoming March trial is expected to be a watershed moment for the live entertainment industry, potentially reshaping how tickets are sold and how venues are managed for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the DOJ suing Live Nation?
The Department of Justice alleges that Live Nation and its subsidiary, Ticketmaster, maintain an illegal monopoly over the live concert industry. The suit claims the company uses its dominant market position to exclude competitors, leading to higher fees for fans and fewer choices for artists and venues.
Will Ticketmaster be forced to split from Live Nation?
While the DOJ originally sought a break-up of the companies, recent reports suggest a settlement involving smaller divestitures or changes to business practices may be considered. However, today’s court ruling means a full trial is currently the most likely path forward.
When will the Q4 2025 earnings be made public?
Live Nation is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results today, 19 February 2026, after the New York Stock Exchange closes. Executives, including CFO Joe Berchtold, are also scheduled to present at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference on 3 March 2026.