Live Nation Gets to Keep Ticketmaster in Surprise DOJ Settlement

Live Nation Entertainment Inc. reached a surprise settlement with federal antitrust authorities, creating a chaotic courtroom scene that angered the judge and sparked a chorus of criticism from rivals, lawmakers and state attorneys general that had joined the case.

The settlement was announced Monday, just a week into the landmark trial. It threatens to derail an antitrust case years in the making that accused the company of illegally monopolizing the live music industry and sought to force a sale of its Ticketmaster subsidiary.