Microsoft, Activision Decision Shows Tech Companies Face New Scrutiny From Regulators
The U.K.'s antitrust watchdog rejected Microsoft's takeover of game publisher Activision, saying it would harm competition in the gaming market.
Photo by Jae C. Hong/Associated Press
BRUSSELS -- The U.K.'s decision to block Microsoft Corp.’s plan to purchase videogame producer Activision Blizzard Inc., is the latest indication of how global regulators have tightened their approach towards market-dominating technology companies.
The Competition and Markets Authority (UK's antitrust watchdog) said on Wednesday that the deal was prohibited because the commitments Microsoft proposed did not go far enough to address its concerns. Microsoft announced that it would appeal this decision.