Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard is also being investigated in the UK by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The agency had planned to reveal the results of its current investigation in early March; however, plans have just changed. Through a statement, the CMA revealed that it needs more time to conclude its investigations and write its report. The delay will be several weeks, so the agency’s conclusion will take much longer to arrive, which could affect the actual acquisition process.
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The CMA asks for more time to give its verdict on the purchase of Activision
Martin Coleman, chair in charge of the inquiry, revealed that the CMA will now give its final verdict until April 26, that is, almost 2 months after the originally planned date. The agency pledged to conclude the current phase of its investigation as soon as possible and, if possible, before the deadline. Why did the CMA delay its verdict? Coleman explained that there are “special reasons” why his report cannot be ready and published as planned months ago. This is partly due to the large number of tests to be analyzed and the complexity of the subject in general. In addition, the CMA had to take into account submissions from third parties and the main parties involved in the process, which took longer than expected. Thus, the agency needs more time to plan its report and think through its decision. “In making this decision, the investigative group took into account the scope and complexity of the investigation and the need to consider a large volume of evidence, as well as submissions from principal parties and third parties, the need to allow sufficient time to make a complete and adequate report of the comments that will be received in response to the provisional conclusions of the investigation group in due time and to reach a fully reasoned final decision within the statutory deadline,” said the person in charge of the investigation. At the same time, Microsoft has already had its first hearing with the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which is strongly opposed to the agreement, and is also awaiting the decision of the European Competition Commission, which expects to deliver its verdict on the 23rd of march.
In case you missed it: “It could harm PlayStation”, United Kingdom puts obstacles to the purchase of Activision Blizzard Look for all the news related to the purchase of Activision Blizzard in this link.
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