Google faces US$3.2 billion damages claim over ad-tech monopoly

Google is confronted with a substantial damages claim alleging the company has unlawfully monopolised advertising technology platforms that underpin the digital marketing ecosystem.

The allegation centres on Google's dominance in ad-tech infrastructure—the systems that facilitate transactions between advertisers, publishers and digital platforms. Prosecutors assert the company has leveraged its market position to restrict competition and inflate costs across the online advertising supply chain.

The US$3.2 billion claim represents one of several legal challenges Google faces globally regarding its business practices. Regulators and competitors have increasingly scrutinised the company's control over multiple segments of the digital advertising market, from ad-buying platforms to publisher networks.

The case underscores mounting pressure on big technology companies to address alleged anti-competitive behaviour. Authorities across major markets have launched investigations into whether dominant platforms leverage their positions to unfairly advantage their own services while disadvantaging rivals.

Google has consistently maintained that its advertising services operate in a competitive environment and that its practices comply with applicable laws. The company's response to the damages claim is expected to outline its defence against the monopoly allegations.