Two-Sided Platforms

Summary

This practice note summarizes the latest developments in antitrust law relating to two-sided platforms. Two-sided platforms are products or services that connect two different groups of consumers across one platform and feature "indirect network effects" (explained below) that link the two sides of the platform together. The Supreme Court has recently addressed in Ohio v. American Express the issue of how to apply traditional antitrust principles in cases involving two-sided platforms. This practice note describes the Supreme Court's decision, the state of antitrust law following, and other implications going forward. Throughout, this note lays out tips for counsel to identify two-sided platforms and understand how fundamental principles of antitrust law now apply to these firms.