The European Union's antitrust regulator is expected to order Apple to pay potential billions of dollars in back taxes to make up for years of alleged sweetheart deals from the government of Ireland. 

After a three year investigation into Apple's tax arrangements with the Irish government, the EU ruled that Ireland gave Apple illegal state help, which both parties deny.  Apple and the Irish government are likely to appeal against the ruling.

Analysts have projected that the European Competition Commission will require Apple to pay back anywhere between $200 million and as much as $19 billion.  Apple has cash reserves of up to $200 Billion, so it pretty much wouldn't be hurt by a giant fine.. 

This commission's decision was expected in September or October.  But the EU competition commissioner fast-tracked the announcement of the 130-page judgement to avoid leaks.  Apple has said it will appeal a negative decision, but it may have limited leverage to reverse the EU's course.