⚖️ Google fined by EU

EU Slaps Google With Multi-Billion Euro Fine

The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion (just under $3.5 billion) for violating EU antitrust rules by favoring its own ad exchange, AdX, within both its publisher ad server and ad-buying tools. Regulators said the company abused its dominant position in the adtech supply chain, creating conflicts of interest that distorted competition. Google has 60 days to end these practices and propose remedies or face additional penalties. The fine marks the EU’s second largest antitrust penalty against Google, following a $5 billion ruling in 2018.

Rising Global Pressure on Big Tech

Google has vowed to appeal, arguing that its ad services operate in a competitive market with ample alternatives. Still, this decision highlights how regulators are increasingly willing to take on tech giants whose control over critical infrastructure—from search to advertising—raises questions about fairness. The timing of the fine, reportedly delayed due to EU-U.S. trade negotiations, also underscores how antitrust enforcement is tied to geopolitical dynamics. Meanwhile, in the U.S., Google notched a partial win when a federal judge declined to impose harsh structural remedies in a separate monopoly case, leaving Chrome and Android intact.

Navigating Platform Power

For founders, the takeaway is clear: platforms that control distribution and monetization are under scrutiny, and rules can shift quickly. If your startup depends heavily on Google’s ad infrastructure, keep an eye on potential changes to how its tools interoperate—remedies could open opportunities for rivals or level the playing field. More broadly, startups should expect regulators worldwide to impose stricter guardrails on dominant players, which can create both risk and opportunity. Building flexible partnerships and avoiding overreliance on one platform may prove to be your best hedge.

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