FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Deal

Microsoft has achieved another significant win against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to finalize the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The FTC's latest attempt to block Microsoft's monumental $69 billion deal was denied by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, marking a pivotal moment for the acquisition originally announced in late 2022 (via Reuters). This decision, handed down by a three-judge panel, puts an end to the FTC's challenge against the July 2023 decision that permitted Microsoft to proceed with the purchase.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from select U.S. Senators who expressed concerns about the consolidation within the tech industry as Microsoft expanded its portfolio. Both competitors and the gaming community raised alarms that the acquisition might lead to popular franchises like Call of Duty becoming exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft reassured the public that it had no interest in barring certain franchises behind lengthy exclusivity periods.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October of the same year. The FTC's appeal posed a potential last-minute obstacle to normal operations, but with its dismissal, the FTC's efforts to halt the acquisition have come to an end.

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