A fine of EUR 50,000 was imposed on Karmasin by the Austrian Cartel Court for engaging in price-fixing agreements with competitors in the market research sector from April 2019 to June 2021. Karmasin's appeal against the decision was rejected by the highest court, emphasizing that involvement of clients in bid-rigging still restricts bidders' competitive freedom.

The Cartel Court justified the fine based on Karmasin's intentional actions, the duration of the infringement, and the seriousness of price-fixing as a core violation of competition law. The decision highlighted that bid-rigging affects the general price level in the market for similar services.

The investigation by the Austrian Federal Competition Authority (BWB) stemmed from a collaboration with the Public Prosecutor's Office for Economic Crimes (WKStA) and uncovered anti-competitive agreements in the procurement process of studies and opinion polls, constituting hardcore violations of cartel law. The probe revealed collusion among three companies to manipulate competition and secure contracts, ultimately favoring Karmasin Research & Identity GmbH as the 'lowest bidder'.

In March 2023, the BWB filed fine requests against Karmasin Research & Identity GmbH, BB Research Affairs GmbH linked with Beinschab Business GmbH, and Edeltraud Geppel-Mikes. The fines against Karmasin Research & Identity GmbH and BB Research Affairs GmbH with Beinschab Business GmbH have been finalized.