Microsoft's $69 Billion Activision Takeover Faces Competition Probe in the UK

The U.K.'s competition watchdog on Wednesday opened an investigation into Microsoft's proposed acquisition of video game publisher Activision Blizzard. From a report: In a statement, the U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority said its investigation would consider whether the deal may harm competition -- 'for example, through higher prices, lower quality, or reduced choice.' The CMA set a Sept. 1 deadline for its initial decision. The regulator said it wants feedback from interested third parties, with a consultation running until July 20.

Lisa Tanzi, Microsoft's corporate vice president and general counsel, said regulatory scrutiny of the deal was to be expected, adding the company would 'fully cooperate' with the CMA. 'We're committed to answering questions from regulators and ultimately believe a thorough review will help the deal close with broad confidence, and that it will be positive for competition,' Tanzi said. 'We remain confident the deal will close in fiscal year 2023 as initially anticipated.'

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