Microsoft has achieved another significant win against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its ongoing effort to finalize the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The FTC's latest attempt to halt Microsoft's monumental $69 billion deal was firmly rejected by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, marking a pivotal moment for the acquisition that was first announced in late 2022 (via Reuters). This decision, made by a three-judge panel, puts an end to the FTC's challenge against the July 2023 ruling that greenlit Microsoft's purchase.
The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from a group of U.S. Senators who raised alarms about the growing consolidation within the tech sector as Microsoft expanded its portfolio. Concerns also arose from competitors and the gaming community, fearing that popular franchises such as Call of Duty might become exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft has reassured the public that it does not intend to restrict these franchises with prolonged exclusivity periods.
Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard
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Despite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October. The FTC's appeal posed a potential final hurdle, but with its rejection, the path is now clear for Microsoft to move forward. This marks the end of the FTC's efforts to block the deal.
For a detailed timeline of Microsoft's journey to finalize the Activision Blizzard acquisition, click here.
