FTC’s Request to Temporarily Halt Microsoft-Activision Deal Rejected by Appeals Court

The merger between Microsoft and gaming giant Activision Blizzard is likely to proceed despite the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)’s attempt to stop it. The FTC argued that the $68.7 billion deal would harm competition in the gaming market, giving Microsoft control over popular video game franchises such as “Call of Duty,” “World of Warcraft,” and “Overwatch.” However, Microsoft has denied these claims.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the FTC expressed concern about the deal’s impact on competition in cloud gaming, subscription services, and consoles. The acquisition is also facing opposition from the United Kingdom’s trade authority, and the deal has a July 18 deadline.

Despite the FTC’s actions, Microsoft Vice Chairman and President Brad Smith emphasized that the acquisition would benefit competition and consumers. He expressed disappointment in the FTC’s decision to appeal the court’s ruling and stated that Microsoft would oppose further efforts to delay the merger. This purchase comes after Microsoft acquired ZeniMax Studios, the parent company of Bethesda Softworks, in a $7.5 billion deal two years ago.