Brussels Imposes Record Penalty
The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion for abusing its dominant position in online advertising. Officials said the company gave unlawful preference to its own ad exchange and publisher ad server, distorting competition and limiting choice for publishers and advertisers across Europe.
Deadline for Remedies
Google has been given 60 days to propose changes to its ad-tech operations. Regulators warned they could impose stronger measures, including a potential breakup of parts of its advertising business, if the remedies are inadequate. Google said it will appeal the decision, arguing that its tools support publishers and advertisers.
Industry Reaction
Publisher groups welcomed the ruling as a step toward restoring fairness in digital markets, while advertising agencies said it could create more competition in the long term. The impact will depend on the remedies approved by Brussels and the outcome of Google’s appeal before the EU courts.
