Microsoft may lose hope of an early merger with Activision Blizzard. The UK Competition and Markets Authority will conduct an in-depth investigation into the takeover. The regulator is concerned that the buyout could lead to a significant weakening of competition in the country.
The agency announced its intention to launch a deeper investigation on 1 September. This gave Microsoft until September 8 to make acceptable concessions. Microsoft refused, and the CMA stepped up its review. In a statement to Engadget, Microsoft President and General Counsel Brad Smith said the company is ready to work with the Office and wants to expand people’s access to games.
“We are ready to work with CMA on the next steps and resolve any issues that arise. Sony, as an industry leader, says it’s worried about Call of Duty, but we’ve said we’re committed to making the game available on the same day on Xbox and PlayStation. We want people to have more access to games, not less.”
The investigation will not necessarily block the deal, but it can significantly delay the merger and change the terms of the deal. At the same time, Microsoft and Activision Blizzard have previously said they will cooperate with regulators. Microsoft head of games Phil Spencer claimed that his company would keep Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles. Unless the CMA raises more serious objections, the question is more about when the merger will be completed than whether it will happen at all.
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Source: Engadget
