UK CMA opens investigation into Microsoft’s $69 billion Activision Blizzard deal

Back in January, Microsoft announced plans to acquire Activision Blizzard in a deal worth a record-breaking $69 billion. However, the deal is far from done, as Microsoft faces regulatory challenges. This week, another hurdle was placed in the way, as the UK's Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) announced plans to probe the deal. 

The UK's CMA announced today that it has opened a preliminary investigation into the acquisition deal. The investigation will “consider whether the deal could harm competition and lead to worse outcomes for consumers, for example, through higher prices, lower quality or reduced choice”, as reported by CNBC.

The CMA has until the 1st of September to make a decision on whether to move on to the next phase, which would include a more in-depth investigation to figure out whether blocking the deal should be recommended.

During this preliminary investigation phase, the CMA will be seeking outside opinion on the deal and what impact it may have on the games industry. The invitation to comment closes on the 20th of July.

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KitGuru Says: This is a record-setting acquisition for the games industry, and with Microsoft being one of the biggest tech companies in the world, it was always going to attract investigations. In September, we should have a better idea of whether or not Microsoft will face difficulty pushing the deal through. 

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