Booking Holdings Surpasses 1.1 Billion Share Volume Ranks 69th as $9.5M Texas Settlement Boosts Shares 0.94%

On August 19, 2025, Booking Holdings (BKNG) traded with a volume of 1.11 billion shares, ranking 69th in market activity. The stock closed up 0.94% as the company announced a $9.5 million settlement with Texas over deceptive pricing practices. The agreement resolves allegations that Booking omitted mandatory "junk fees" in hotel room listings, misleading consumers with artificially low prices. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton described the settlement as the largest against a U.S. state for junk fee violations by any hotel or online travel agency.

The settlement requires Booking to disclose all fees upfront, aligning with broader regulatory efforts targeting hidden consumer charges. The company acknowledged the resolution, emphasizing its commitment to transparency. This follows similar settlements in 2023 with hotel chains like Choice, Hilton, and Marriott. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of "drip pricing" tactics, where fees are bundled into checkout totals rather than being disclosed at the initial listing stage.

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