EU fines Google €2.95 billion for abusing dominance in online advertising
The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion for abusing its dominant position in the online advertising market by favoring its own ad exchange and related ad tools. The Commission found that Google’s self‑preferencing of its ad services distorted competition. Google has said it will appeal.
Key facts
- Fine: €2.95 billion
- Requirement: End self‑preferencing practices within 60 days or face further remedies
- Reaction: Google plans to appeal the decision
- Context: Part of a broader EU push against large US tech firms for antitrust and competition issues
Sources & further reading
- European Commission press release: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_1992
- TechCrunch coverage: https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/06/eu-fines-google-3-5b-over-adtech-abuse/
What this means
The ruling aims to curb conflicts of interest in the adtech stack and to restore fair competition among ad exchanges, bidders and publishers. If Google fails to implement remedies, the Commission can impose additional measures.
Discussion
Do you think the EU acted appropriately or was this regulatory overreach? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Posted: sourced from official EU press release and reporting by major outlets.