A recent opinion from an adviser at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) suggests that Google’s refusal to allow Enel SpA’s e-mobility app, JuicePass, access to its Android Auto platform may infringe upon competition laws. This development follows a significant fine imposed on Google’s parent company, Alphabet Inc., by Italy’s antitrust regulator in 2021, amounting to 102 million euros (3.2 million) for similar actions against the app.
Background on JuicePass and Google’s Position
JuicePass is designed to empower users by enabling them to manage their electric vehicle chargers remotely, offering convenience and flexibility. However, Google’s decision to block the app from integrating with Android Auto has raised concerns about the implications for competition in the market. According to Court Advocate General Laila Medina, this refusal constitutes an abuse of Google’s dominant market position, hindering third-party developers and ultimately harming consumers.
In response to the allegations, Google cited security concerns and the lack of a specific template as reasons for denying JuicePass compatibility with its platform. The company has since appealed to the Italian Council of State and indicated that it is taking steps to address the situation. A spokesperson for Google stated, “We note the opinion of the Advocate General and await the final decision of the Court. Since this case started, we have worked to add the template Enel asked for, and many similar apps are already available globally on Android Auto.”
Market Reactions
As the CJEU prepares to make its ruling in the coming months, market reactions to Alphabet Inc.’s stock have been mixed. On Thursday, shares of Alphabet (GOOG) saw a modest increase of 0.50%, closing at 8.60. A number of exchange-traded funds holding Alphabet stock also experienced gains, reflecting a generally positive sentiment among investors.
- T-Rex 2X Long Alphabet Daily Target ETF GOOX slipped 0.55%
- Fidelity MSCI Communication Services Index ETF FCOM ticked up 0.35%
- IShares Global Comm Services ETF IXP went up 0.58%
- Vanguard Communication Services ETF VOX gained 0.59%
- Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund XLC edged up 0.29%
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders in the tech and automotive sectors will be closely monitoring the developments surrounding this case and its potential impact on competition and innovation in the e-mobility space.
