Microsoft's $69 bln Activision deal approved by US judge, UK opposition softened

A U.S. judge has given the green light to Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of videogame maker Activision Blizzard, while the UK regulator has indicated it may reconsider its opposition. The deal, which would be the largest in the history of the videogame industry, had faced opposition from the U.S. and UK. Activision shares surged 10% following the news. The judge rejected the Biden administration's argument that the deal would harm consumers, and the UK regulator is now open to considering Microsoft's proposals to address antitrust concerns. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission is considering appealing the decision.