Business & Finance
Video game console makers move to dismiss consumer lawsuits over tariff refunds
Business Insider reports major console manufacturers are opposing customer claims to tariff refunds after receiving government payouts.
The short version
- Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have filed motions to dismiss class-action lawsuits seeking to pass government tariff refunds on to consumers.[Business Insider]
- The companies argue buyers suffered no legal injury because they voluntarily paid advertised prices and received functioning hardware.[Business Insider]
- Sony expects roughly $510 million in refunds across its group, while Nintendo reported a $300 million refund.[Business Insider]
- Courts have yet to rule on the pending motions to dismiss.[Business Insider]
Key facts
- Sony sought to dismiss a class-action lawsuit over tariff refunds, arguing customers suffered no injury because they paid advertised prices for working consoles.[Business Insider]
- Sony expects to receive about 80 billion yen, or $510 million, in tariff refunds across the Sony Group.[Business Insider]
- Microsoft filed to dismiss a consumer tariff refund class action in late August, contending the plaintiff received the benefit of the bargain.[Business Insider]
- Nintendo moved to dismiss a tariff refund lawsuit in July, arguing plaintiffs did not allege any breach of sale terms or misleading conduct.[Business Insider]
- Nintendo recorded a $300 million tariff refund.[Business Insider]
What remains uncertain
- Whether courts will grant the dismissal motions or require console makers to share tariff refunds with consumers remains unresolved.[Business Insider]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Video game makers really don't want to give their customers tariff refundsBusiness Insider metered