HomeWinBuzzer NewsMicrosoft Activision Blizzard Merger Deadline Extended by the EU

Microsoft Activision Blizzard Merger Deadline Extended by the EU

Microsoft will need to wait for European approval of its Activision Blizzard acquisition as the EC extends its deadline.

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has been working hard to get its $69 billion deal with . Standing in the company's way are regulators in the EU, UK, and US, as well as rival company Sony. While the company has been waiting for the European Commission to conclude its investigation, the EC now says it is extending its deadline.

Reuters reports the antitrust regulator now says its decision on whether to approve the Microsoft Activision Blizzard acquisition will not be made until April 25.

It is believed Microsoft is willing to make concessions to get the deal over the line. Regulators have concerns that Microsoft controlling Call of Duty and other Activision franchises (Candy Crush and Warcraft among them) will harm competition.

However, Microsoft has consistently argued that it is willing to keep Call of Duty available across platforms. Furthermore, the company argues that it is not the leading gaming brand, currently trailing Sony, Nintendo, and Tencent.

Battling Regulators

The FTC in the US has taken the company to court, the CMA in the UK has raised concerns, and in the EU, regulators are currently investigating the deal. Microsoft's gaming head announced in December that Microsoft and Nintendo were coming to an agreement.

Last month, Microsoft offered more information on that agreement, confirming it is a binding deal. Nvidia also reached a similar deal to keep Call of Duty on Steam for 10 years.

It is unclear what other concessions Microsoft is willing to make. The company is reportedly confident that the deal will be given approval around the world.

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Last Updated on June 4, 2023 1:13 pm CEST by Markus Kasanmascheff

SourceReuters
Luke Jones
Luke Jones
Luke has been writing about all things tech for more than five years. He is following Microsoft closely to bring you the latest news about Windows, Office, Azure, Skype, HoloLens and all the rest of their products.

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