Even during the contemplative Christmas season, the news about Microsoft $69 billion acquisition of publisher Activision Blizzard no end. If Xbox boss Phil-Spencer has his way, Sony in particular is using unfair methods to prevent the merger. Apparently with success, because it has been clear for a few weeks that the supervisory authority FTC wants to block the deal in the United States and file a lawsuit. Of course, Microsoft didn’t put up with that and in one 37-page answer shot back, in which they suggest, among other things, that the planned lawsuit by the FTC unconstitutional be. What exactly happened?
Blocking the takeover deal is unconstitutional – claims Microsoft
Microsoft’s announcement earlier this year that it intends to buy publisher Activision Blizzard for $69 billion caused a massive earthquake in the entire gaming industry.
It is routine for mergers of this magnitude in the USA to be reviewed by the competent authority, the Federal Trade Commission. After almost eleven months of investigation, they came to the conclusion that the deal is potentially anti-competitive be and have lawsuit filed.
Of course, tech giant Microsoft does not put up with this and responds in a 37-page statement. In it they explain, among other things, why some Bethesda games are now appearing as exclusive titles for Xbox. On the other hand, they also claim that the FTC’s lawsuit unconstitutional be and the company in particular circumcise in the Fifth Amendment.
Microsoft President remains open to negotiations
Microsoft President Brad Smith stated in an interviewer The Verge: “While we have confidence in our case, we remain ready to work with regulators on creative solutions that protect competition, consumers and workers in the tech industry.”
It remains to be seen whether the multi-billion dollar deal could still burst at the end of the day. If the FTC and Microsoft fail to reach an agreement, the dispute will go to court. The US authority is currently planning one Hearing in August 2023. The European supervisory authorities, on the other hand, want up to Mid-April submit their final report.
Source: eurogamers
