Apple is threatening to close the iTunes store over a possible royalty hike:

“The National Music Publishers’ Association, which represents the interests of music makers and songwriters in the U.S., wants rates to be increased 9 cents to 15 cents, which represents a 66 percent rise.

If [iTunes] was forced to absorb any increase in the … royalty rate, the result would be to significantly increase the likelihood of the store operating at a financial loss — which is no alternative at all,” iTunes vice president Eddy Cue said. (via Apple Threatens To Close iTunes Store - Geekologie)

I guess prices always have to go up in line with inflation, but it seems like they’re pushing for an exorbitant price hike.