FTC Fails To Block Microsoft's Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard, So The $68.7 Billion Merger Will Happen After All
The chance to prevent the deal before the July 18 deadline is gone.
Looks like Microsoft Activision Blizzard — and King, don’t forget King — will become a thing after all.
The FTC’s attempt to block Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard has been denied in its appeal to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal. According to the court's filing, the motion for injunctive relief is denied. As a result, the FTC no longer has the opportunity to prevent the merger before the deadline of July 18.
Microsoft and Activision Blizzard are now poised to complete the $68.7 billion merger, pending approval from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK. The FTC may still hold an administrative hearing in August, but Microsoft and Activision Blizzard can request the FTC to drop its challenge on the grounds that it is no longer in the public interest. If the FTC chooses to continue opposing the deal, it would have to wait until the acquisition is completed before pursuing legal action to force divestiture, which could take several years.
While the US merger is moving forward, Microsoft is working on new proposals to address concerns raised by the CMA, which previously blocked the deal. The CMA aims to reach a final decision before August 29 but stated that it is unlikely to meet the July 18 deadline due to the need for further investigation.
Related Articles
- Spellburst Is Back, The Draenei And Starship Keywords Arrive, And More From Hearthstone's "The Great Dark Beyond" Expansion Reveal
- Overwatch 2 Reveals A Spooky Season 13 While Rumors Of A Mobile Project And New "Major Feature" Swirl
- World Of Warcraft's 20th Anniversary Event Patch Gets A Release Date And It Is VERY Soon
About the Author
Matthew “dinofries” D'Onofrio is a writer, content creator, podcaster and — most importantly — a gamer. With such a strong passion for video games and a severe case of FOMO, it's no surprise he always has his finger on the pulse of the gaming world. On the rare occasion Matt's away from a screen, you'll find him strumming away on his acoustic guitar or taking care of his cat Totoro.
More Stories by Matthew D'OnofrioRead Next
It features a new Legacy Theme called "Human Heritage," centered around ancient trades and routes.
You May Enjoy
It’s almost time to face New Eden’s greatest threat, together.
Soviet partisans, German militias, and irregular fighters can explore the enemy combat zone.
MOBA/Battle Royale/Hero Shooter SUPERVIVE Will Be F2P For A Full Week When Steam Next Fest Kicks Off
Theorycraft Games aims to keep the servers open 24/7, issues notwithstanding, of course.
Once again, it’s time to snag all those mounts and other goodies you haven’t been able to get yet.
The new progression system will be clearer and offer a more engaging and rewarding experience.
Log in now to claim a free Nexus-Prince Shaffar card, complete with Spellburst.
Discussion (0)