Google operates illegal ad monopolies that ‘substantially harmed' customers, judge rules

Core Viewpoint - A federal judge ruled that Google operates illegal monopolies in digital advertising technology, potentially leading to a breakup of its online business empire [1][3]. Group 1: Legal Findings - The ruling determined that Google violated the Sherman Act by dominating both the online publisher ad server market and the ad-exchange market [1]. - The judge noted that Google entrenched its monopoly power through anticompetitive practices, harming both competitors and consumers [2]. Group 2: Financial Impact - Following the ruling, shares of Google's parent company, Alphabet, fell by 1.2%, trading at $153.64 [2]. Group 3: Future Proceedings - The Justice Department is advocating for the forced sale of Google's digital advertising products, including Google Ad Manager, in the upcoming remedies phase [3]. - A second trial phase is set to begin to determine appropriate remedies for Google's monopoly [3][4].