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How to end Amazon’s “tricky” monopoly on books

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Booksellers and authors in the United States have united to request an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) into Amazon’s purported monopolistic control over the book industry.

This call for action comes as Amazon faces an imminent antitrust lawsuit, adding to the mounting pressure on the e-commerce behemoth.

In a letter signed by critics of Amazon, including the American Booksellers Association, the Authors Guild, and the antitrust nonprofit Open Markets Institute, concerns are raised about the company’s practices that are alleged to have enabled it to establish an iron grip on book sales and exert undue influence over the promotion and demotion of book titles.

The letter argues that the FTC should delve into how Amazon has leveraged “unfair methods of competition” to gain dominance in the book market.

This appeal coincides with reports that Amazon executives are scheduled to meet with FTC officials in what is colloquially termed a “last rites” meeting – a meeting seen as the final step before a formal federal antitrust action is taken against Amazon’s vast online retail operation.

Amazon’s tricks

Critics point out that Amazon’s algorithms and practices give the company an extensive control over what readers see when they browse for books.

The letter, addressed to Lina Khan, the FTC chair, and Jonathan Kanter, the Justice Department’s antitrust chief, highlights Amazon’s market position, drawing parallels to the monopolistic practices of railroads in the 19th century.

It notes that Amazon, much like railroads of the past, holds significant sway in the book market, influencing which products reach consumers.

The letter also highlights Amazon’s substantial sales dominance within the US publishing industry. Amazon is said to account for over 50% of all physical books sold in the retail marketplace, as well as more than 90% of physical books sold online and over 80% of e-books.

Strong-arm tactics

Accusations in the letter range from claims of Amazon using strong-arm tactics to enforce onerous contract terms on traditional publishers to allegedly promoting its own listings and pricing over others.

The authors of the letter point out that the number of brick-and-mortar bookstores in the US has dwindled significantly over the years, falling from approximately 12,000 in 1998 to just over 6,000 in 2019.

Amazon’s response to these allegations remains to be seen. The implications of a potential FTC or DOJ lawsuit targeting Amazon’s operations are still unclear.

Reports from June indicated that the FTC was preparing a comprehensive antitrust suit focused on Amazon’s core online marketplace.

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Trump’s fiery speech stirs up controversy

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Former president delivers profane, conspiracy-laden address as Election Day nears

In a fiery rally speech, Donald Trump delivered a profane, conspiracy-laden address just two days before the election.

The former president cast doubt on election integrity, resurrecting grievances about his 2020 defeat and his prosecution after challenging those results.

At one point, Trump made shocking comments about reporters, suggesting someone would have to shoot through them to reach him on stage.

He intensified his criticism of what he called “grossly incompetent” national leaders and the American media, adding that he “shouldn’t have left” the White House.

The speech also included alarming comments referencing guns, as Trump claimed Rep. Liz Cheney wouldn’t support foreign wars if she “had nine barrels shooting at her.”

With hours to go before Election Day, Trump’s controversial statements are stirring up fierce debate across the political landscape.

Kamala Harris makes surprise ‘SNL’ appearance

Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance on “Saturday Night Live,” joining Maya Rudolph in a pre-election sketch.

The two, dressed identically, engaged in a mirror-image dialogue, playfully encouraging each other with lines like “Keep Kamala and carry-on-ala.”

Their synchronized performance delighted the audience, culminating in the iconic “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!”

Harris’s unexpected visit to New York aimed to generate buzz and connect with a nationwide audience ahead of Tuesday’s election.

This appearance marks a strategic move to appeal to voters through popular media platforms.

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Valencia floods trigger protests during royal visit

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Angry residents confront King Felipe and Spanish PM in flood-ravaged Valencia suburb

Hundreds of residents in Valencia protested during a visit from King Felipe, Queen Letizia, and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, accusing authorities of delayed alerts and response to last week’s deadly floods.

Some demonstrators, shouting “Murderers,” even threw mud at the officials, expressing frustration over lives lost in submerged garages.

King Felipe, undeterred, stayed to console grieving residents, while Sanchez quickly withdrew amid the turmoil.

Officials announced new warnings as rain threatened to hit Valencia again, intensifying fears of further damage.

Sanchez pledged an investigation into any potential negligence and called for unity in the wake of Spain’s deadliest flood disaster.

Spain mobilized thousands of troops in a massive relief effort for what experts say is a tragedy worsened by climate change.

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Harris and Trump court Latino voters in Nevada

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Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are rallying Latino voters in the battleground state of Nevada.

Harris spoke about the Biden administration’s dedication to expanding healthcare and immigrant rights, speaking to a diverse crowd.

Trump, meanwhile, highlighted his commitment to jobs and conservative values, drawing enthusiastic supporters.

Both leaders are keenly aware of Nevada’s pivotal role in the upcoming election.

The Latino vote could tip the balance in one of America’s most closely watched states.

As election season heats up, Nevada is a crucial focus for both parties.

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