Commission Rules Company Distorted Market
The European Commission has imposed a €2.95 billion penalty on Google, finding that the company exploited its dominant position in the digital advertising sector. Regulators concluded that Google gave its own ad exchange and publisher tools an unfair advantage, limiting competition and reducing choices for advertisers and media outlets.
Google Must Present Corrective Plan Within Two Months
Brussels has demanded that Google submit a proposal within 60 days to address the anti-competitive practices. Officials cautioned that if the company’s plan fails to meet standards, stronger measures, including potentially separating parts of Google’s advertising operations, could be enforced. Google confirmed it will challenge the decision, arguing that its ad services support the broader market ecosystem.
Industry Reacts to the Ruling
Media organizations hailed the decision as a positive step toward fairer competition, while advertising agencies noted it could create opportunities for other ad-tech providers. The full impact will depend on the remedies accepted by regulators and the outcome of Google’s appeal in the EU courts.
