Microsoft may face a hurdle in its attempt to take over game maker Activision Blizzard due to a UK regulator, according to a new report. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has reportedly expressed concerns that Redmond Company’s $69 billion (approximately Rs 5,49,900 crore) deal to acquire the firm could negatively affect those rivals. Compete in the cloud gaming arena that provide access to publisher titles, while limiting their potential. The firms reportedly have less than a week to propose ways to address the CMA’s concerns.
according to a report good By The Associated Press, the CMA on Thursday expressed its concerns regarding Microsoft’s attempt to acquire Activision Blizzard, which first surfaced in January. UK regulators aren’t the first to voice their concerns about the deal – the FTC announced in February that it would be reviewing Microsoft’s deal with the game publisher.
According to the report, company president Brad Smith said, “Microsoft stands ready to work with CMA on next steps and address any concerns it may have.”
One of the concerns raised by the CMA was that Microsoft’s deal could affect rivals that provide access to Activision Blizzard games, according to the report. The firm is known for many popular titles and gaming franchises, including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Overwatch and Diablo.
According to the report, the UK regulator has also expressed concerns about the impact of the deal on competition in the upcoming cloud gaming sector.
CMA, which launched a preliminary investigation into the deal in July, has reportedly asked Microsoft and Activision Blizzard to respond to their concerns within five days, before the deal faces further investigation.
