Members of the European Commission said Tuesday that “the point is to ensure that the gaming ecosystem remains vibrant to the benefit of users in a sector that is evolving at a fast pace.”
By Matt O’Brien and Raf CasertThe European Union has launched an investigation into Microsoft’s planned takeover of video game giant Activision Blizzard, fearing the $69 billion deal would distort fair competition to popular titles like Call of Duty.
“We must ensure that opportunities remain for future and existing distributors of PC and console video games, as well as for rival suppliers of PC operating systems,” the commissioners said. They have until March 23, 2023, to decide whether to approve the deal. In a preliminary probe, the EU found potential antitrust issues with the distribution of video games and halting access to Microsoft’s rivals. The bloc said it “has concerns that the proposed acquisition may reduce competition on the market for PC operating systems.”
Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick said in an email to employees Tuesday that global competition in the video game industry makes it “understandable that regulators are trying to better understand the games business.” But he said the “process is moving along as we expected” and foresees the deal closing by June.
Saudi Arabia also has signed off on the deal, but it still awaits important decisions from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and authorities in the U.K. and EU.
Österreich Neuesten Nachrichten, Österreich Schlagzeilen
Similar News:Sie können auch ähnliche Nachrichten wie diese lesen, die wir aus anderen Nachrichtenquellen gesammelt haben.
EU opens “in-depth investigation” into Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard acquisitionEU opens 'in-depth investigation' into Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard acquisition
Weiterlesen »
European Union opens 'in-depth' investigation into Microsoft's purchase of Activision Blizzard | EngadgetFollowing a preliminary investigation, the European Commission believes the deal may “significantly reduce competition” in a handful of areas, including the PC and console gaming markets..
Weiterlesen »
Activision insiders fret $69B Microsoft merger could fall apart: sourcesMicrosoft’s $69 billion Activision buyout is facing heightened scrutiny from regulators — and some insiders at the game studio behind “Call of Duty” are worried that the Xbox maker could …
Weiterlesen »
Activision says the “next full premium” Call of Duty is coming in 2023Activision says the 'next full premium' Call of Duty is coming in 2023
Weiterlesen »
Stormy forecast: Hurricane force winds along Sierra Crest; Whiteout blizzard conditions in TahoeAs a potent storm front moved closer to Northern California, the forecast from the National Weather Service grew more ominous on its potential impact in the Sierra.
Weiterlesen »
Sierra braces for blizzard conditions; 4 feet of snow, possibility of thundersnowA storm front advancing toward the Bay Area Sunday morning, triggered winter weather warnings, advisories and special weather statements for the havoc it will churn up in the Sierra over the next several days.
Weiterlesen »