Commission Rules Company Gave Itself an Unfair Edge
The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion, finding that the company leveraged its dominant position in the digital advertising market to favor its own ad exchange and publisher tools. Regulators said this restricted competition and limited options available to both advertisers and media companies.
Firm Must Submit Compliance Plan Within 60 Days
Brussels has ordered Google to provide a corrective plan within two months. Officials cautioned that if the proposal does not meet requirements, stronger measures—including the potential breakup of parts of Google’s advertising operations—could follow. Google confirmed it will appeal the ruling, maintaining that its services benefit the broader advertising ecosystem.
Industry Voices Vary
Publishing groups welcomed the fine as a victory for fair competition, while advertising agencies said it could create space for rival platforms to expand. The ultimate effect on the ad-tech landscape will hinge on the remedies approved and the outcome of Google’s legal challenge in EU courts.
