Microsoft wants to proceed with Activision-Blizzard deal despite ongoing FTC case

Microsoft is said to be planning to proceed with the acquisition of Activision-Blizzard once it receives approval from British and European market regulators. The company does not want to wait for the American FTC investigation, sources tell the New York Post.

Microsoft does not want to wait for the Federal Trade Commission investigation and allow the acquisition to proceed, writes the New York Post based on conversations with those involved. If the acquisition of Activision-Blizzard is approved by the British CMA and the European Commission, it would be almost impossible for the FTC to block the acquisition. Microsoft will then proceed with the acquisition for $95 per share, including the commitments the company has made in the UK and elsewhere.

There are multiple antitrust investigations underway against Microsoft over the acquisition. Microsoft wants to pay $68.7 billion for the game publisher. The British Competition and Markets Authority was critical, but after Microsoft provided more information and concluded deals with game streaming services, the CMA is less skeptical that the purchase will distort competition. Earlier this week, the CMA expressed confidence about the future of the deal. The European Commission is also still investigating the takeover, but an agreement is expected next month.

In America, the FTC asked a judge at the end of last year to temporarily block the takeover. This was done through an administrative law judge of the FTC itself, instead of through a state judge. However, such an administrative judge cannot simply stop a takeover if the company has already started doing so. Microsoft wants to do that as soon as the European regulators give their approval. According to the New York Post sources, the company is confident that the commitments are sufficient for the deal to stand up in a regular federal court, where the FTC must then apply.

Time also plays a role in Microsoft’s decision. The FTC doesn’t have to make a ruling until August of this year, and after that the case could have to start in federal court. However, in the acquisition, Microsoft and Activision have set a deadline for July 18.