CMA extends Microsoft-Activision deal deadline to August

The Competition and Markets Authority has pushed back its deadline for a final decision on Microsoft's proposed $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

The UK regulator was expected to deliver a formal ruling blocking the deal on July 18, but the CMA has now extended this deadline to August 29 as the regulator has received a "detailed and complex" proposal from Microsoft.

The UK Regulator has extended its deadline by six weeks

Microsoft CMA deadline extended activision blizzard

"The CMA considers that there is insufficient time remaining in the statutory period for full and proper consideration of Microsoft's submission on the proposed Order," the regulator said. "As such, the Inquiry Group considers that there are special reasons to extend by six weeks. The revised period will therefore end on August 29, 2023.

"However, the Inquiry Group aims to discharge its duty as soon as possible and in advance of this date."

Shortly after Microsoft's court win over the US Federal Trade Commission, Microsoft and the CMA announced a pause in legal proceedings to see how Microsoft could address the CMA's concerns surrounding cloud gaming and get the deal across the line in the UK.

A new report from Bloomberg claims that Microsoft is considering selling off its cloud-based market rights for games in the UK to appease the CMA.

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Written by Sean Carey

With a deep love for Xbox and achievements, Sean has committed to playing the best RPGs, racing games, and first-person shooters Xbox Game Pass and his precious free time will allow. Prior to joining TrueAchievements, Sean gained a degree in journalism from Solent University.