Activision Blizzard Allowed to Join Microsoft's Appeal Against UK Regulator's Decision

The UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal has granted permission to Activision Blizzard to participate in Microsoft's appeal against the regulator's decision to block the proposed $68.7 billion acquisition. This move enables Activision Blizzard to present further arguments in support of the deal. A case management conference is scheduled for today, where the CMA will also have the opportunity to provide additional arguments against the acquisition. The hearing for Microsoft's appeal, now also involving Activision Blizzard, is currently set for July 24, 2023. Although the deal has been approved in several major markets, including the European Union, it still requires approval in the UK and US. Microsoft is facing opposition from the US Federal Trade Commission, which has initiated legal action against the deal.