Judge finalizes remedies in Google antitrust case

A US judge on Friday finalized his decision on the consequences Google will face for its search monopoly decision, adding new details to the agreed remedies.

Last year, it was revealed that Google had an illegal monopoly in its main market, internet search, and in September, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta ruled against the harshest consequences recommended by the Justice Department.

This included a proposed forced sale of the Google Chrome browser, which provides data that helps the company’s advertising business deliver targeted ads. Alphabet shares gained 8% in extended trading as investors celebrated what they saw as minimal consequences of a historic defeat in a landmark antitrust case last year.

Investors largely shrugged off the decision, saying it didn’t affect Google. But some told CNBC it was still a bite that “could hurt.”

Mehta released additional details about his decision on the new filings on Friday.

In August 2024, Mehta ruled that Google violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act and had a monopoly on search and related advertising. Antitrust litigation began in September 2023.

In his decision in September, Mehta said the company could pay to pre-load products but could not have special contracts requiring payment or licensing. Google was also ordered to loosen its grip on search data. Mehta ruled in September that Google should make certain search index data and user interaction data available “not just advertising data.”

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WRISTWATCH: Judge announces final remedies in Google’s antitrust case