FTC Loses Appeal Challenging Microsoft's Acquisition of Activision Blizzard

Microsoft has achieved another significant victory against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to finalize the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The FTC's attempt to halt Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition was rejected by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, solidifying the deal that was initially announced in late 2022 (via Reuters). This decision, made by a three-judge panel, marks the end of the FTC's challenge to the July 2023 ruling that permitted Microsoft to proceed with its acquisition.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from certain U.S. Senators who were concerned about the growing consolidation within the tech industry, as Microsoft, the Xbox manufacturer, continued to acquire major companies. As both competitors and gamers expressed worries that popular franchises like Call of Duty might be restricted to Xbox platforms, Microsoft reassured stakeholders that it had no intention of imposing extended exclusivity periods on these franchises.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October of that year. The FTC's appeal could have posed a significant obstacle to normal business operations, but with its efforts now thwarted, it appears that their pursuit has come to an end.

For a comprehensive timeline detailing Microsoft's challenges in finalizing the Activision Blizzard acquisition, you can click here.