Court Upholds Microsoft's $69 Billion Activision Blizzard Deal

A federal appeals court has dismissed the FTC's legal challenge against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals supported a previous ruling that denied the FTC's request for a preliminary injunction to stop the $69 billion deal, which was completed in 2023.

A federal appeals court on Wednesday dismissed the Federal Trade Commission's legal challenge to prevent Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This purchase, valued at $69 billion, witnessed scrutiny due to its potential impact on the gaming industry.

The decision by the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upholds a previous order by a lower judge. The judge had determined that the FTC was not entitled to a preliminary injunction, a move that sought to block the deal from closing.

Microsoft successfully closed the deal in 2023, signaling a significant shift in the gaming landscape as Activision Blizzard, known for its popular 'Call of Duty' franchise, joined the tech giant's portfolio.

(With inputs from agencies.)