FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Deal

Microsoft has achieved another significant legal victory against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to finalize the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco has denied the FTC's appeal to block Microsoft's $69 billion deal, as reported by Reuters. This decision, made by a three-judge panel, solidifies the July 2023 ruling that initially allowed Microsoft to proceed with the acquisition, which was announced back in late 2022.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Concerns were first raised by certain U.S. Senators who opposed the transaction, citing the growing consolidation within the tech industry as Microsoft expanded its portfolio. Both competitors and gamers expressed worries that popular franchises like Call of Duty might become exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft has reassured stakeholders that it has no plans to restrict access to these franchises through extended exclusivity periods.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October of that year. The FTC's recent appeal could have disrupted normal operations, but with its denial, the FTC's efforts to halt the deal appear to have come to an end.

For a detailed timeline of Microsoft's journey to finalize the Activision Blizzard acquisition, you can click here.