Live Nation reports revenue growth amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny

Chief financial officer Joe Berchtold said foreign exchange headwinds had reduced Ticketmaster’s first-half results by about $16 million, with international shows generally producing lower ticketing revenue.

The company also outlined expansion plans in Latin America, the Middle East, Japan and other markets. Live Nation’s stake in Mexican live entertainment company OCESA is expected to increase to 75% later this month.

Net income for the quarter was $302.7 million, down almost 20% from the previous year. However, the company pointed to what it described as “accelerating momentum” based on its half-year results and deferred revenue. Ticketmaster’s deferred revenue for the quarter reached a record $317 million, up 22% year-on-year, while event-related deferred revenue rose 25% to $5.1 billion.

Shares in Live Nation were up about 3% on the day of the announcement, trading at $153, and have gained roughly 18% since the start of 2025.

The results come as the company faces significant regulatory challenges. The US Department of Justice’s antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation is proceeding, with a trial expected in March 2026. The case follows criticism over ticketing practices, including public and political backlash related to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour sales.

In a separate matter, former Oak View Group chief executive Tim Leiweke has been indicted on bid-rigging charges, which include allegations of millions in undisclosed kickback payments involving Live Nation and Ticketmaster.

These legal issues were not discussed during the company’s earnings call, but analysts say the outcome of the investigations could have a major impact on the business.