Microsoft To Face In Depth Investigation For Activision Blizzard Acquisition By Uk Authorities
The UK’s CMA has stated that it is “concerned that Microsoft’s anticipated purchase of Activision Blizzard could substantially lessen competition in gaming consoles, multi-game subscription services, and cloud gaming services” and that if Microsoft is unable to address its concerns within five working days, the CMA will move on to what it refers to as a “Phase 2 investigation.” Sorcha O’Carroll, Senior Director of Mergers at the CMA, comments on the investigation, saying: In Phase 2, an impartial panel will investigate Microsoft’s agreement in greater detail and determine if having influence over games like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft will hurt competitors....