Just over an hour ago, the Competition and Markets Authority in the UK has cleared the ABK and Microsoft merger. Ending a near twenty-month regulatory process that had its up and downs. With many interesting leaks, dirty laundry being aired out and court hearings for the wider internet crowd to enjoy. But with every regulatory body approving the deal, here is what the CMA had to say on the matter.
The CMA’s Approval of the ABK and Microsoft Merger
The CMA had this to say on the matter through their official twitter acount:
We’ve cleared the new deal for Microsoft to buy Activision without cloud gaming rights.
In August, Microsoft made a concession that would see Ubisoft, instead of Microsoft, buy Activision’s cloud gaming rights.
Read more: https://t.co/Z4scLEJFy0
1/2 pic.twitter.com/gmqwZsOOFi
— Competition & Markets Authority (@CMAgovUK) October 13, 2023
They then went onto say:
This new deal will stop Microsoft from locking up competition in cloud gaming, preserving competitive prices and services for UK cloud gamers.
While Cloud Gaming is a nascent market, Microsoft capitulated to ensure the CMA’s concerns were met. This news was also celebrated by none other than Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft:
We’re grateful for the CMA’s thorough review and decision today. We have now crossed the final regulatory hurdle to close this acquisition, which we believe will benefit players and the gaming industry worldwide.
— Brad Smith (@BradSmi) October 13, 2023
When the ABK and Microsoft merger officially closes, Microsoft will now own some of the most popular franchises in gaming. With guarantees for the Call of Duty franchise to remain multiplatform and going to more platforms, including the Nintendo Switch. But this is all the news to report on right now. As there will be more to report on over the weekend. Make sure to stay tuned to Lords of Gaming for any details you might have missed!
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