A
Authorized Buyers
Google's ad exchange product within Google Ad Manager, formerly known as AdX (DoubleClick Ad Exchange). Renamed Authorized Buyers in 2018 as part of the DoubleClick → GAM consolidation. Central to the DOJ antitrust ruling: April 2025 Judge Brinkema decision found Google illegally monopolized this market (one of the two GAM markets where liability was established). Remedies trial ongoing 2025-2026; mid-2026 ruling expected. DOJ has sought divestiture of AdX.
Where they sit
Stack tier: Infrastructure & Data (B)
Largest open-web ad exchange globally; subject of DOJ monopolization finding (April 2025); divestiture pending in remedies phase
Ownership
Parent: Google Ad Manager