CoStar Group Inc., a prominent player in the commercial real estate information sector, is urging the full Ninth Circuit to reconsider its decision to revive antitrust counterclaims filed by its competitor, Commercial Real Estate Exchange Inc. (CREXi). CoStar accused CREXi of illicitly utilizing property listing data and copyrighted images, prompting a complex legal battle.
Previously, a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit reinstated CREXi’s antitrust claims, which contend that CoStar engaged in anti-competitive practices that stifled market competition. In light of this ruling, CoStar is pushing for an en banc rehearing, suggesting that the panel’s decision could have significant ramifications for competitive dynamics within the real estate information industry. Details of the case and CoStar’s arguments for a rehearing were reported by Law360.
The original dispute began when CoStar alleged that CREXi improperly used proprietary data from CoStar’s database for its own benefit. This led to a lawsuit accusing CREXi of copyright infringement and unfair competition. In response, CREXi counterclaimed, alleging that CoStar’s practices constituted a breach of antitrust laws designed to promote fair competition.
The implications of this case are closely monitored by legal experts and companies within the industry, as it may influence how data is accessed and utilized among competitors. The Ninth Circuit’s prior decision underscores the court’s willingness to scrutinize corporate practices potentially harmful to market competition. As this legal drama continues to unfold, the outcome of CoStar’s request for an en banc hearing remains pivotal for stakeholders seeking clarity on competitive conduct in the commercial real estate space.