In today’s Digest, we cover the setting of a May hearing to discuss remedies in the Google ad tech case, Alphabet’s strong Q1 earnings despite ongoing antitrust trials, Banijay’s early takeover talks with ITV, and TikTok’s plans to launch e-commerce operations in Japan.

Judge Sets May Hearing to Discuss Remedies in Google Ad Tech Case

 A hearing to discuss potential remedies in the Justice Department’s lawsuit against Google’s digital advertising practices has been set for later this week, on 2nd May. The move follows a ruling that Google illegally dominates two key markets for online advertising technology.

US District Judge Leonie Brinkema, presiding in Alexandria, Virginia, said the session would provide an early and broad overview of possible remedies, before narrowing focus to more specific corrective measures. Separately, US District Judge Amit Mehta in Washington is still considering remedies in a related case involving Google’s search monopoly, after ruling in August 2024 that Google used exclusive agreements with Samsung and others to entrench its search dominance. 

Remedies in that case could include forcing Google to divest its Chrome browser, a move that would dramatically reshape the search and browser markets.

Google reports Strong Q1 Earnings Despite Antitrust Trials Pressure 

Alphabet, the parent company of Google, reported strong first quarter earnings on Thursday, beating Wall Street expectations despite mounting external pressures. The company continues to navigate challenges from escalating global trade tensions and intensifying antitrust scrutiny. However, these factors have not yet materially impacted Alphabet’s financial performance, as they were introduced/intensified after the quarter’s reporting period closed.

Alphabet reported revenue of USD$90.23bn (£67.4bn), representing a 12% year-on-year increase, and reported earnings of USD$2.81 (£2.11) per share, surpassing analyst forecasts.

Banijay in Early Talks Over Potential ITV Takeover

French entertainment group Banijay is in early discussions about a potential takeover offer for British broadcaster ITV, according to a report from the Financial Times. The talks reportedly focus on a deal that would merge the companies’ production businesses, though Banijay is also said to have considered making an offer for ITV’s studio division specifically.

If successful, a merger would create a major global production powerhouse, bringing together two of Europe’s most prominent media players.

TikTok Set to Launch E-Commerce Operations in Japan

TikTok is preparing to enter Japan’s e-commerce market within the next few months, according to reports from the Nikkei newspaper. The company is expected to soon begin enlisting sellers for its TikTok Shop platform in Japan, expanding its global e-commerce footprint. TikTok’s move into Japan’s online retail space positions it to compete with established local and international players in one of the world’s most mature e-commerce markets.