UK regulator approves Microsoft's Activision Blizzard takeover without competition concerns

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has narrowed the scope of its investigation into Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, stating that the deal will not hamper competition in console games. The regulator had previously raised concerns that the transaction may result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less innovation. However, the CMA now believes that the cost to Microsoft of withholding Call of Duty from PlayStation would outweigh any gains from taking such action. The CMA's investigation remains on course for completion by the end of April. Microsoft still faces uncertainty from regulators in the US and European Union.