DoJ, PRH present closing arguments

In the US, closing arguments in the Department of Justice (DoJ) antitrust case aiming to block the Penguin Random House (PRH) acquisition of Simon & Schuster (S&S) were heard on Friday, reports Publishers Weekly.

Speaking on the final day were John Read from the DoJ, who underscored the government’s argument that the acquisition would diminish competition and push down author advances; PRH attorney Bill Petrocelli, disputing that the deal would create competitive or consumer harm; and S&S attorney Stephen Fishbein, reiterating that the deal would benefit S&S authors.

Publishers Weekly has published summaries of each day of the trial here, while the New York Times has summarised its findings from the trial, including the effects of consolidation on publishing and authors, how publishers decide how much to pay authors and what makes a bestseller.

A final ruling from Judge Florence Pan is not expected until November.

Category: International news