The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, alleging that the e-commerce giant is a monopolist that uses anticompetitive tactics to harm consumers and competitors. The lawsuit is backed by 17 state attorneys general.

The FTC alleges that Amazon uses a variety of anticompetitive practices to maintain its monopoly power, including punishing sellers for offering lower prices on other platforms, and pressuring sellers into paying for Amazon’s delivery network.

The FTC also accuses Amazon of preferencing its own products and services in search results, and acquiring and then crushing rivals

The FTC’s lawsuit argues that Amazon’s practices lead to higher prices, reduced quality for shoppers, overcharging of sellers, stifled innovation, and hindered competition.

Amazon has vehemently denied these allegations, arguing that the lawsuit is based on incorrect facts and law. The company contends that its practices promote competition, innovation, and better options for consumers and small businesses.

The sources for this piece include articles in NPR, BBC, and Axios.