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Live Nation Sets Record Year as Judge Clears DOJ Antitrust Case for March Trial

Stronger early‑2026 bookings underscore resilient demand despite a looming antitrust trial.

Overview

  • Live Nation reported 2025 revenue of $25.2 billion, with operating income up about 52% to roughly $1.25 billion.
  • Fourth‑quarter 2025 revenue rose 11.1% to $6.31 billion, beating LSEG estimates, as concert revenue reached $5.15 billion and ticketing was roughly flat.
  • Global concert attendance hit a record 159 million in 2025, and international markets surpassed the United States in fan attendance for the first time.
  • Early 2026 momentum includes about 67 million tickets already sold and more than 80% of large‑venue shows booked.
  • A federal judge allowed core claims in the DOJ and 40‑state antitrust suit to proceed to a March trial in New York, and reporting on Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater’s recent departure has raised questions about potential settlement scenarios.